Travel

I am almost certain that one cannot argue against the Importance of including travel and its added impact to a program.  There is so much added value.  It is challenging to arrange an excursion, but there is so much satisfaction as well.  There is a difference between an excursion for music and say any other discipline.  Most music trips include performances and this means music instruments, and possibly other needed equipment and items.  Of course with equipment comes the need for additional larger transportation at the destination.  In addition, you need storage space and security for instruments and equipment.  Every time you are scheduled to move from your accommodation, it takes more time and the return trip is time consuming as well.

I have completed some wonderful excursions to many beautiful locations.  I have learned so much and I know that the students experienced good times as well.  We have traveled to attend music festivals and have traveled to arrange our performances at different locations.  The sights are spectacular and we have attended great concerts and visited interesting sites.  We walk, we listen, we see, we feel.  

I have worked with a variety of different tour companies, some who specialize with music groups.  I have met so many wonderful people and have had the pleasure of working with many great colleagues as well.  Some trips included flights, train, bus, walking, and small boat tours. Students have been exposed to different foods, have had to learn to be responsible for themselves and for others, have learned to share and to be cooperative and patient and flexible.  We have all learned about managing time, managing money and to be observant and safe.

Music trips take time to prepare, the added rehearsals and collection of important documents and some students have special requirements for diet and more.  However, these trips help to build your music program and the students return with a treasure of memories and absolutely some added skill.  Of course, teachers get to travel for free and this is our reward for arranging the arranging all the paperwork, the meetings, the rehearsals, the room checks late at night and so much more.  But, it's worth it - we love what we do for a living!  And I am so grateful for the opportunities to travel!