On April 15, Tbilisi State Medical University hosted an American band. This visit was arranged through the U.S. Department of State’s Arts Envoy Program, which brings American musicians to countries throughout the world to foster cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. The first concert was arranged at Tbilisi State Medical University.  The concert was attended by Jeffrey Renaud Acting Deputy of US Embassy, Vice-Rectors, academic, administrative staff and students of Tbilisi State Medical University. The event was opened by Professor Rima Beriashvili, Vice Rector of TSMU. She talked about the importance of the exchange of cultures and remind about the concert arranged by TSMU Folk and Songs Ensemble in Atlanta, (the U.S). Professor thanked the representatives of the Embassy and the American guests that the TSMU was chosen as a venue for the concert.  The audience was addressed by Mr. Jeffrey Reno, who presented the band and Tony Meemal, spoke about the importance of inclusiveness and noted that there are no limited abilities. Tony Memmel is a disabled musician. Tony was born missing his left forearm, he taught himself to play the guitar by constructing a self-made cast out of strong tape that secures a guitar pick to his arm. Tony Memmel has a diploma of musician in vocal course, he is a singer, songwriter and composer. Today Tony is the leading guitar player of the band (composed of three persons). Besides, he is also a speaker and works for a various therapeutic programs where he teaches the audience how to overcome the obstacles. 

See more about Tony Memel's activity:     http://tonymemmel.com

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