Abigail Washburn: Building US-China relations ... by banjo

The speaker initially planned to study law in China to improve U.S.-China relations but was captivated by the banjo's sound at a party. This led to a journey through Appalachia, learning American songs, and eventually a music career in Nashville. The speaker highlights music's power to connect cultures, sharing experiences of performing in the U.S. and China, and the emotional impact of music, such as a touching moment with a child in Sichuan. The speaker concludes that U.S.-China relations need more cultural connections rather than another lawyer.

What was the speaker's original career plan before discovering the banjo?

• To become a musician in Nashville

• To study law in Beijing and improve U.S.-China relations

• To teach English in China

• To become a lobbyist in Vermont

What inspired the speaker to take a banjo to China?

• A recommendation from a music teacher

• The influence of a friend

• Hearing Doc Watson's music at a party

• A desire to learn a new instrument

Where did the speaker end up after traveling through Appalachia?

• Tennessee

• Kentucky

• Vermont

• Beijing

What was the outcome of the speaker's encounter at the Bluegrass Music Association Convention?

• They started teaching music

• They joined a bluegrass band

• They were invited to make a record in Nashville

• They decided to return to law school

How does the speaker describe the power of music?

• As a tool for political change

• As a way to earn money

• As a means to connect cultures and hearts

• As a form of entertainment

What reaction does the speaker get when performing a song in Chinese at a bluegrass festival?

• Surprise and curiosity

• Confusion and disinterest

• Indifference

• Anger and frustration

What significant experience did the speaker have in Sichuan Province?

• They connected with a child who sang a song from her mother

• They learned a new Chinese song

• They taught music to local children

• They performed at a large concert