I’ve left Lisbon for now. Time is flying.
I’m slowly making my way toward Porto, playing as many shows as I can along the way.
Arriving in Sintra, I run into trouble with the van. I’d say I’m a decent driver – but this cute little town is a real beast: steep hills, narrow streets, and even narrower nerves. So I park outside and begin my long, humble walk into the valley where the town center sits.
The spot I originally wanted to play is already taken – a violinist owns the stage. So I set up off to the side, far from the action. After 40 minutes of playing in the heat, there’s maybe 3 euros in the hat. Not ideal.
Still, I move on. I set up again in a wide square, hoping for better luck. But just before I play my first note, a security guy shoos me away. No music, no mercy.
I’m tired. But I need to earn.
So I pull myself together, one more time – and move again.
This time, it works. A solid spot. Curious people. Music in the air.
And I’m glad I didn’t give up.
Note to self:
Never give up. No matter what.
