Nano Stern, Chilean folk musician, enthralled both music and Spanish students at East Helena High School last week. He drew students in with incredible songs interwoven with engaging stories of Chile’s history, its musical culture, and his experience growing up with those influences. His charisma, humor, easy-going personality and phenomenal musical talent made quite the impression.
Spanish students enjoyed deciphering song lyrics especially since they had been studying the music of Chile and Argentina and how influential musicians have used music as a form of protest. In that vein, Nano recently completed an album in honor of revolutionary Chilean musician Victor Jarra, and students had just done a deep-dive into Jarra’s music, so hearing his songs come to life right in front of them was an incredible experience.
“I was mesmerized!” said one student.
Music students were equally delighted by Nano’s visit and were most impressed by his flute, which he made himself from a piece of PVC pipe and plays with one hand while strumming the guitar with the other. This special flute is based upon the traditional Norwegian flute, called a Sälgflöjt or Overtone Flute, made from willow, which Nano adopted as part of his repertoire while touring through Norway. Following their time with Nano, students were inspired to make their own flutes, too!
There were also a handful of native Spanish speakers in the crowd, and they especially valued the opportunity to connect with Nano and his music in their native tongue.
Photo Credit: Retta Leaphart
