Soccer and Symphony

While at times I feel I am lacking in general activities of any and all type, this week was an indulgence by comparison.  On Tuesday, I attended my first Brazilian futebol (soccer) match and on Thursday I visited the Sala São Paulo to hear the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra (OSESP) play.

The soccer game was hosted by one of Campinas' two professional teams, Ponte Preta.  Brazil has several leagues which move after each season, depending on the teams' standings.  (The worst two teams go down a league and the best two move up.)  While Ponte Preta holds the honor of being one of the oldest clubs in Brazil, they have never won a championship and, historically, have resided in the lowest league.  Recently, however, they have had some successes and are busting out of their "loser" reputation.

"The most loved monkey in all Brazil"

Lovingly called the "macacas" (monkeys), their fans are loyal and animated. With fans dressed in the requisite black and white, the stadium was decently full for a Tuesday night game, which the home team won, 1-0.

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The Orquestra Sinfônica do Estado de São Paulo (OSESP) plays in the beautiful Sala São Paulo, which was once a train depot.  One of the world's best orchestras, we had seats in the "choir" which was a uniquely situated section directly behind the musicians, prime seating to watch the conductor.

Norwegian conductor, Eivind Gullberg Jensen, leads the ensemble.

The orchestra frequently brings in top international talent, both as conductors and musicians.  This night the orchestra was conducted by Norwegian Eivind Gullberg Jensen, and performed Mozart's "The Magic Flute" (featuring Soprano, and fellow Norwegian, Mari Eriksmoen) and Sibelius' Symphony No 5 in E flat Major.

My friend and colleague, Raquel, and me took advantage of our prime seats
 with a little #selfie action before the musicians take the stage.

Having played violin in orchestras for several years, I am used to seeing the conductor, albeit with a left side profile.  It was interesting to be back in the POV of the musicians, but with different vantage and nothing to do other than listen and enjoy.

Waiting for Heidi

Charming in the daylight and evening, alike.

When one thinks of rolling green hills, pine trees, knit sweaters, cheese fondue, chocolate shops, and chair lifts, imagines of Germany and Switzerland undoubtable come to mind.  But Brazil?  How do these objects fit into the stereotype of endless beaches, palm tree-hopping monkeys, and icy caipirinhas?  In the rural mountain town of Campos do Jordão, they do!

Situated in the Mantiqueira Mountains in the state of São Paulo near the Minas Gerais border, the highest city in Brazil at over 5,300 ft, is known for its identity crisis.  Visiting in early May, adds to the experience as the temperature hovers within the 50's (Fº) and the leaves on many of the maple trees are turing yellow and orange in anticipation of the coming Brazilian "winter."

Despite Brazil's mix of European settlers, there is no logical explanation for the Alpine architectural "look" of the town beyond the clever tourism marketing and the fact that it just "works." Nevertheless, it's a great place to escape the heat enjoy some reasonably priced and delicious specialty microbrews, cheeses, and chocolates.

The teleférico is a bit unnerving on the way down, but offers an unbeatable
 view of the city and the countryside.

Almost makes you want to bust out some Euros!

Meet Castello.
In between cheese fondues and hot chocolate, a trail ride
through the woods to a waterfall fits right with the day.

Or Chocolate Beer from the local Baden Baden brewery.
Only available in Campos do Jordão - not distributed anywhere.

Once more, how is this Brazil?!?