June 4, 2024
TENET Germany Travelogue, Day 2
GENE STENGER, TENOR

All of us arrived in Frankfurt at different times on Monday. Violinist Beth Wenstrom, Mezzo-soprano Ellie Sutherland, and myself all departed JFK Sunday night on Singapore Airlines at 8:55pm, and arrived in Frankfurt Monday morning around 10:00am. Following our passport check, and luggage pick-up, we made our way to the train station, and arrived at the Frankfurt Central Station. Both Ellie and I mentioned how lucky we were to have Beth with us as she helped us find our way to the hotel. We arrived at the hotel around 12:30pm, and we were fortunate enough to check-in early.

Upon checking in, and getting settled, both Ellie and I agreed that we not only needed lunch, but also some strong coffee to stay awake for the rest of the day! She found a place called the Alten Limpurg that serves traditional Hessian food, and is located on the famous Römer, Frankfurt’s old town that consists of all medieval buildings, and the city’s most important landmark. I ordered white sausage with sweet mustard, and a pretzel with coffee. Ellie ordered a Flammkuchen, which is dough rolled out very thinly, and covered with various toppings along with coffee.

After lunch, we decided to explore more of Frankfurt, and came across the Frankfurt Cathedral, or the Frankfurter Kaiserdom Bartholomäus. We were amazed by the beautiful architecture, and also came across a plaque honoring composer, and organist, Hans Hassler, who died in Frankfurt in 1612.

Following this, Ellie and I stopped at a few local thrift stores to help her find a jacket, but didn’t have any luck. Our first day ended with a company dinner at a Greek restaurant.

We’re looking forward to our first concert of our tour on Tuesday night at the Katharinenkirche!