Giving young people an opportunity to explore new and exciting places encourages them to become more global thinkers and citizens. In a world that often feels like it is becoming more and more closed off, making our students aware of everything that the world has to offer them is a chance I feel we have to encourage. Additionally, the pace and rigor of the musical experience that the students receive only makes them more capable and adept musicians when they return to their schools. It is a transformative opportunity on every level.

Switzerland is always a favorite stop on the tour - going up to the top of three famous mountains is three days was delightful. I love going from the business of London and Paris to the open splendor and natural rugged beauty of Switzerland. I had never been to the Netherlands and that was simply lovely. Utrecht is a gem of a city that I hope to visit again. We toured the waterways of Amsterdam on the last night and that was delightful.

My advice would be to take time to let the experience soak in. Take pictures for memories but make sure to put your phone down and enjoy the moments. This tour was a great mix of touring and performance. I was able to learn so much about the different places and cultures while also being able to have fun performing music at great concert venues.

Terrific student musicians, a great teaching staff and a committed MTC team. Our passion is bringing outstanding musical and intercultural experiences to students in Kentucky and southern Indiana.

The 2023 trip to Europe with Musicians Abroad was a trip of a lifetime! To have well-planned experiences in eight different countries over a period of 16 days was incredible. I came home from this trip a better person than when I left.

I remember being awestruck by visiting Windsor Castle and Westminster Abbey just weeks after I watched the coronation of King Charles III on TV. Then, in Paris, the choir and the orchestra were fortunate enough to perform in La Madeleine Church. This became one of my favorite concerts as the acoustics were terrific and I knew that we, as performers, were actually singing in the same sanctuary where Chopin’s funeral took place and where both Saint Saëns and Fauré served as church organists.

I am grateful… to have my students engage in such a truly life-changing experience that you simply cannot teach within the walls of a classroom.

Fabulous student musicians, a great group of Music Advisors and a terrific team of tour leaders and guides! I can’t wait for the next opportunity to bring students from Kentucky and Southern Indiana on this amazing musical, cultural and historical adventure.