This is undoubtedly one of the most difficult chapters of my professional life as I mentioned in my last post. On a personal level, I was also going through many unexpected changes at that time. Sometimes, we go through life following routines and keeping company without realizing that everything can change overnight. But, as I’ve learned, after making it through those storms, change is always good.

When I left Europe, it was for several reasons. I didn’t have a permanent job at the time, and I had this idea stuck in my head that only by securing one could I stay in Europe or anywhere else. How naive I was, haha. I also didn’t have any emotional ties in Portugal at that point. Although those years were musically enriching, they couldn’t fill the emptiness I felt.

So, I went to Bogotá to audition for the National Symphony Orchestra of Colombia, a position I won. I did my trial period there, and the most beautiful part was reconnecting with old friends, going through it all accompanied, and meeting new, valuable people. But despite all of this, I felt like it wasn’t my place in the world. There was a constant discomfort that kept me from enjoying the present moment. That’s why I decided to move again—because I couldn’t stay there. At the time, I thought the discomfort was external, but it was something internal that I needed to resolve: my ego, my traumas, and my fears.

As everything happens for a reason, and when you manifest what you want, things fall into place. I won the audition for the Buenos Aires Philharmonic Orchestra, playing in one of the most beautiful theaters in the world: Teatro Colón, a place with seven floors of history, music, and beauty.

Teatro Colón: The most beautiful office in the world

It was an audition with 50 participants. There were several positions available, but of course, I wanted the most coveted one. I put all my energy into winning it. I went to Buenos Aires two weeks before the audition, rented a temporary apartment to adjust to the time zone and climate, and prepared myself technically and psychologically. The nerves on the day of the audition were terrible—I had nausea, hadn’t slept, and felt the anxiety of seeing so many others also preparing to win. After two days of auditions and waiting for the results, I won the position I wanted so badly!

Buenos Aires is one of my favorite cities in the world, especially for living. It’s a cosmopolitan city filled with so many European influences, combined with a Latin American touch. It has intelligent, interesting people and an incredible diversity all living together in one place. The cultural scene is unlike that of other big cities. It’s usually accessible to all social classes, with free or reasonably priced tickets. The varied architecture, literature, and art everywhere, and, in my opinion, the best gastronomy make it truly special.

Buenos Aires, la ciudad de la furia: A city of passion, culture, and endless energy

When I first arrived in Buenos Aires, I was eager to immerse myself in the city—and I did. The first 4-5 years were extremely fun. My beautiful dog, Manu, came into my life during that time—a mixed breed who has been with me ever since. Teatro Colón, renowned and beloved by great artists, gave me the chance to share the stage with incredible musicians like Zukerman, Joshua Bell, Dutoit, Maisky, Midori, Lachenmann, and many more.

Performing at Teatro Colón with Misha Maisky and his children, an unforgettable night with the Buenos Aires Philharmonic Orchestra

Living in a city like Buenos Aires opens your mind, expands your knowledge, and is an absolute delight. I’m grateful for those nearly 10 years in such a beautiful country. I obtained citizenship, and it was a time of significant internal changes, a period of searching and discovering. During the COVID era, I even explored something completely different: design carpentry.

IG: nina_madera_

What started as a fun project to build a little house for Manu became a venture where I learned about marketing. It was a side of me I never imagined I’d explore, but I enjoyed the entire process of applying my creativity to something other than the violin.

Buenos Aires: Transformation

Leaving Europe: A Chapter of Challenges and New Beginnings