London Day 6

Friday morning we attended a lecture on the British Parliament and Monarchy by Dr. Tutt. We learned about the power of the parliament and how the House of Commons and House of Lords are similar and different to the American political system. For the monarchy we learned how it has changed over time gradually transferring the power from the monarchy to the parliament leaving the monarchy now to mostly symbolic duties instead of political power. This afternoon we went shopping on Oxford St. It was a really nice day in London which led to an enjoyable day of shopping. We went to a 6 story H&M, the Nike store, and Primark. Primark was absolutely huge and packed full of people. Walmart on Black Friday is the closest comparison I have to the atmosphere in Primark. Friday night we attended the London Symphony Orchestra at Barbican Hall. The first half of the concert featured Beethoven Overturn: Prometheus, and then a triple concerto for violin, cello, piano and Orchestra which began with Allegro then Largo and was wrapped up a splendid rendition of Rondo Alla Polacca. To make it better the violinist was also the conductor. In my symphony attending experience I always find the conductor and entertaining feature of the program as they bounce and conduct the music. So add a conductor with long flowing hair bouncing while playing the violin and the triple threat of entertainment was hit if you ask me. The second half was Beethoven's 3rd Symphony which lived up to the high expectations of the first half.  Now it's back at the university to get some rest to explore the countryside tomorrow. 

Oxford Street.

London Symphony Orchestra. 

The symphony group. Left to right Emily, Emma, John, Rebecca, Taylor, me, Ben, Tyler, and Chris 

London Symphony Orchastra.