I love music and the history of musicians.   I’m also fascinated by instruments that Americans aren’t accustomed to listening to.  One of my favorite Romanian instruments is the pan flute.

For those who may not remember, Gheorghe Zamfir, Master of the Pan Flute, is probably best known for the late 80’s early 90’s commercials that aired on CNN advertising the world renowned maestro of the pan flute.  The world knew him but Americans were so isolated to cultural music at that time.  I’m not sure that we realized how famous he was at this time.

Here is the commercial to jog your memory!

In 1941, in Gaesti near the Romanian capital city of Bucharest, the 14-year old Gheorghe Zamfir received no free spot in the accordion class. Almost forced to move over to the pan flute class, the talented pupil developed not only a deep love, but rather also an outstanding talent for the classical instrument. He’s been awarded more than 90 gold and platinum performances. Amazing isn’t it? Romanian born Zamfir is a true musical maestro, with a host of Hollywood movie credits, including performing for the soundtracks of Kill Bill and the Karate Kid. (Who can forget those musical montages of Daniel Larusso training for the big tournament? That pan flute was Zamfir.)

Why am I posting about Zamfir? Well he was born and raised and has relatives still in Gaesti, the home of the House of Angels. I keep forgetting to ask Gelu if he knows him. I’m sure he does, he seems to know nearly everyone in the town.

I’ll leave you with the most famous of all the Zamfir melodies…it’s hauntingly beautiful. Open up your cultural mind for a moment…lie down…close your eyes and relax.