The summer of 1986, Vancouver was the center of the universe.
Expo 86 had transformed our city into a glittering world stage. Pavilions from every country, fireworks over False Creek, and music pouring out everywhere. I was still in my early twenties, singing and playing piano in lounges around town, when I got the call to perform at one of the big outdoor stages.
I’ll never forget stepping onto that stage with my duo partner. The sun was setting, thousands of people filled the plaza, and the air smelled like ocean and cotton candy. We opened with a soulful ballad, then I switched to accordion for a couple of upbeat Canadian folk tunes mixed with some swinging jazz. The crowd grew bigger with every song.
That night I realized music really is a universal language. People from Japan, Germany, Australia, and right here in Canada were all smiling, swaying, and clapping together. No politics, no borders — just shared joy.
Expo 86 gave me something even more precious than applause. It confirmed that I belonged on stage. That my voice and my accordion (and yes, my piano too) could reach people far beyond the smoky lounges I’d been playing in. It planted the dream that one day I would take this music across borders — a dream that eventually carried me all the way to Austin, Texas.
To this day, when I play certain songs, I can still feel that warm Expo evening breeze and hear the roar of that international crowd. It reminds me why I fell in love with performing in the first place.
Have you ever had a moment on stage when you felt the whole world was listening?
Share it in the comments — I’d love to hear your story.
And if you’re just starting out and dreaming of your own big moments, my Lessons page is here to help you find your voice.