Meet the Team
Jay Gephart
Conductor/Coordinator for the Indiana Combined Community Band
Jay S. Gephart joined the faculty of Purdue University in the fall of 1995 after completing 12 years as a public-school band director. In July of 2001, he was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor with tenure and in 2009 was promoted to Full Professor. In November 2006, Professor Gephart was appointed Director of University Bands and currently serves as the Al G. Wright Chair of Purdue Bands and Orchestras. He is the director of the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band the Purdue University Wind Ensemble. He is also coordinator of the concert band program. From 1995-2006, Professor Gephart served as the music director for the Purdue Symphony Orchestra. He also serves as Artistic Director for the Kokomo, Indiana Park Band.
Professor Gephart received a Master of Music Degree in Tuba Performance with High Distinction from Indiana University in 1988 and a Bachelor of Music Education Degree with Distinction from Indiana University in 1983. Under his direction, the Purdue Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra have shared the stage with some of the nation’s outstanding soloists and have represented Purdue at the Indiana Music Educators Association state convention on two occasions. In February of 2012 the Purdue Wind Ensemble performed a concert at the national convention of the American Bandmaster’s Association, held in Indianapolis. Under his direction, the Wind Ensemble has also performed concerts in Chicago’s Symphony Center and in New York’s Carnegie Hall on two occasions.
Under his direction the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band has traveled around the world. With recent performances in Beijing China, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland and La Feria de las Flores in Medellin, Colombia, the “All-American” Marching Band continues to serve as an ambassador for Purdue, the state of Indiana and the nation.
Professor Gephart has served as a guest conductor, clinician, lecturer and adjudicator both nationally and internationally having conducted All-State Bands in Indiana, Virginia, Colorado, Arkansas and Kentucky. He has served as a clinician at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago and at numerous conferences and in-service workshops. In 1997, he was selected to conduct the music camp honor band for the Department of Education in the Northern Region of Queensland, Australia. In his career he has been the recipient of many awards and honors including the Indiana Outstanding Bandmaster Award, the Purdue University New Professional Award, and the 2018 James Calvert Outstanding Music Educator Award. In 2016, he was named an Honorary Old Master by Purdue University. He has commissioned numerous works for wind band, including “Anthem” by Steven Bryant which was premiered in 2011 celebrating the 125th Anniversary of Purdue Bands. Most recently he has served on the faculty of the American Band College in Ashland, Oregon and serves on the ABC Board of Directors.
Professor Gephart has been very active in various professional organizations including National Association for Music Education, National Band Association, College Band Director’s National Association, Indiana Bandmaster’s Association, Indiana Music Educators Association and Phi Beta Mu. In 2018, he was named Collegiate Educator of the Year by the Indiana Music Educators Association. From 2010-12, he served as President of the Big Ten Band Director’s Association and currently holds the position of Vice President and Treasurer of the John Philip Sousa Foundation. He is also a member of the NBA Revelli Composition Contest selection committee. In 2012, he was elected to a position on the board of the National Band Association, serving as the Collegiate Representative. Professor Gephart was elected to membership in the prestigious American Bandmaster’s Association in 2008. He served on the ABA Board of Directors from 2012-present and was elected Vice President in March, 2018. He and his wife Jana have four children and two grandchildren. They reside in Lafayette, Indiana.
Meet an MA Representative
Will you be at one of Music for All/Bands of America Championship events? Attending Midwest Clinic or an MEA conference in Texas, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Arizona, Kentucky or another state? These are just a few of the events where you can meet an MA Representative, learn about our company and create a Musicians Abroad tour from your state or region.
The Trip Account app is offered to our groups as they travel.
Included in your trip, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.
Powerful Director Tools
Interactive Checklists, Pop Up Communications, Emergency Notifications.
Tools for all travelers
Live Itineraries, Group Messaging, Photo Gallery and much more.
Everything you need for your next trip.
The Trip Account app is available for iPhone and Android.
Blog Posts
Your Stage Awaits: Audition for the 2027 National Honor Band & Choir
In an exciting cultural exchange initiative, talented high school musicians from the state of Ohio are being recruited for a transformative performance journey across Europe in 2026.... learn more
Ohio Student Musicians to Showcase Talents Across Europe in Summer 2026
In an exciting cultural exchange initiative, talented high school musicians from the state of Ohio are being recruited for a transformative performance journey across Europe in 2026.... learn more
Darrin Davis to Lead Ozark Region International Tour
Musicians Abroad is excited to announce the Ozark Region as our newest ensemble for 2026. Led by Coordinator Darrin Davis... learn more
“Priceless”: A Family’s Experience Traveling with Musicians Abroad
For the French family, Musicians Abroad provided an unparalleled opportunity to learn, grow and explore — together. Willa, French horn player, Stuart, trumpet player.... learn more
Let’s Get Physical – Preparing for Your Tour
Being on tour for a couple of weeks is full of amazing adventures, wonderful performances and lots of fun! The trip will be both exhilarating and exhausting... learn more
Kentucky Musicians Abroad Delights Crowds in Europe
More than 360 musicians, 40 faculty members and staff, parents and a crew of tour directors made up... learn more
The Trip of a Lifetime – Traveling with Indiana Musicians Abroad
This no-fee personal fundraising option transfers 100% of collected financial gifts directly into your trip account, providing you with the gift of travel... learn more
Introducing Gift Link
This no-fee personal fundraising option transfers 100% of collected financial gifts directly into your trip account, providing you with the gift of travel... learn more
Traveling with Indiana Musicians Abroad
Eight countries. Sixteen days. Musicians Abroad celebrated its inaugural international performance tour in June 2023... learn more
McCormick Joins Musicians Abroad as Senior Director
McCormick is a respected and trustworthy leader with more than 30 years of experience... learn more
Speck, Hatteberg Co-Direct Kentucky Group
Two well-traveled, respected educators and musicians head first Kentucky musicians abroad tour... learn more
Introducing Musicians Abroad
Created for students wanting to share the joy of music internationally... learn more
Taylor steps up as Indiana Coordinator
Chris Taylor has traveled across the country as well as overseas. It only seems natural that he would be the leading force in organizing the first Musicians Abroad tour... learn more
Hear from our Valued Clients throughout the world and see why music directors are singing a tune about Music Travel Consultants.
Since 1987, Music Travel Consultants, led by accomplished music educators, has become the first choice for student performance group travel by providing industry-leading, on-line services and customer-based support. Focused on creating custom trips that provide relevant, memorable and rewarding student travel experiences, Indianapolis-based MTC successfully partners with directors and administration, designing travel to destinations within the United States and across the globe. With more than 165 years combined travel expertise earned in over 68 countries, Music Travel Consultants will anticipate group needs and deliver an amazing experience without surprises or hidden costs.
We have utilized Music Travel Consultants for all of our large group travel needs for over three decades and I wouldn’t dream of traveling with anyone else with our students. Their attention to detail - their attention to everything you need as a director within your trip - is impeccable and they do amazing work.
Chris KrekeDirector, Carmel HS 6-Time BOA Grand National Champion
Round Rock has used Music Travel Consultants for four major trips and all the plans down to the smallest detail have always been worked out and well handled. As a director it is extremely comforting to know I don't have to worry about those things! The travel designer and tour directors are quick to assist, knowledgeable and easy to work with. I highly recommend Music Travel Consultants to anyone considering group travel!
David MobleyBand Director, Round Rock HS
For years, Music Travel Consultants has provided our program with a level of service and dedication you usually can’t find with many businesses in today’s world. And our trip to Ireland was no different. Thank you for helping to make this trip unforgettable!
Jay GephartDirector Purdue University All American Marching Band
In a word — "Fantastic." For well over a decade Music Travel Consultants has served as the Official Travel Partner for Music for All and Bands of America. We could not be more pleased with their execution. MTC does what they say they are going to do and consistently outperforms expectation. Their leadership and team have my highest endorsement.
Jeremy L Earnhart, ED.D. President and CEO Music For All
Music Travel Consultants is the only company that has met my standard of excellence that I require from every part of my program. MTC's experience with music and their backgrounds in music education give them insight into what I go through.
Jay WebbWGI Hall of Fame, 3-Time BOA Grand National Champion
My experiences with MTC have been overwhelmingly positive! Their focus on providing epic experiences for students, their attention to detail, and their leadership In organizing great events, Make them a company I trust and respect. It is also wonderful to see a company that gives back, as MTC does, and makes the world a better place!
Damon BrownThirst Project, Choreographer
Music Travel Consultants has never failed to impress our students, parents and staff when it comes to our band's travel needs. They deliver what is “above and beyond” the highest expectations. They are simply the best in the business.
Richard SaucedoEducational Consultant, Chief Judge, Music for All
Music Travel Consultants is the best in the business at taking a band to Grand Nationals. It made my job easier knowing that every detail of the trip was addressed with care. They will always be our go-to travel company for this trip!
Dan MorrisonFounder, Happy, Not Satisfied
We feel extremely blessed with our association with Music Travel. Their handling of all the details, and the ability to be flexible before and during the trip, speaks volumes for their depth in the industry and human relations.
Kevin SchuesslerDirector, Center Grove HS
Music Travel Consultants is an absolute pleasure to work with! They are professional and courteous and always make sure that all of our needs are met. Traveling with MTC has taken the stress out of travel. We are thankful to have found such great people to work with!
Jana HarveyAsst. Director of Bands, Flower Mound HS
I've been traveling with the band since 1980 and this was the easiest trip ever for me. I simply had to do nothing but conduct the band! It's hard to believe it's taken me this long to get it right, slow learner! The students and parents have had nothing to say but wonderful things…
Nan MooreDirector of Bands
We received numerous positive comments from students and parents about how well-organized the entire experience had been. And, fellow teachers and administrators told them how the students couldn’t stop talking about the trip once they were back in school!
David ElliottDirector of Bands
Music Travel Consultants are the very best in the business when it comes to traveling with your group. Directors, parents and all adults are treated like royalty, but more important, each trip provides the very best experience for the students that is both educational and memorable. And what makes them so successful...they are run by educators and parents. You cannot find a better, more professional travel company for your music program.
Matt HarloffDirector of Bands Avon HS, Director of Indoor Winds
It’s rare anymore, but every once in a while, I contact a business that exceeds my expectations, like Music Travel Consultants. Our trip was just amazing. Music Travel outdid itself in every aspect. The attention to detail, and the wisdom to read the group, be flexible and think out of the box was refreshing. The students, chaperones, parents, and myself were blown away with the sights and unforgettable experiences every day. We have memories from this trip that we will cherish for decades. As a Music Director, I appreciate that Music Travel Consultants knows exactly what I need during every moment of the trip, provides it, and makes the trip a success.
Bradley GardnerDirector of Choral Music, Franklin Central HS
If you are considering traveling with your music ensemble, I highly recommend using Music Travel Consultants. The customer service is outstanding! The company is the epitome of high class professionalism. I feel like I am on vacation when I travel with Music Travel Consultants.
Luke AylsworthDirector of Bands
The Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade has always been a great experience for our students. To tour both Philadelphia and New York City in the same trip is a wonderful option! I have done this trip four times in my professional career and ALWAYS with Music Travel Consultants. There is no better travel company!
Chris TaylorDirector of Bands, Pendleton Heights HS
When the Blue Springs Golden Regiment attends a Bands of America event, Music Travel Consultants is our first call. Few companies understand the many challenges and “ins and outs” that encompass a BOA show. MTC takes the stress of travel and scheduling away so the staff can focus on teaching music!
Dr. Tim AllshouseDirector of Bands
Traveling in Italy is to witness its great treasures, but to perform in Italy is to experience the true heart of the country and its people. Our concert in Florence was in a beautiful medieval church, just off the main square, and we played for a packed house that spilled into the orchestra!
Grady EmmertFlorence International Music Festival participant
When it comes to traveling with my group, I trust the folks over at MTC implicitly! Our parents and students are always impressed with the level of detail that goes in to the planning of our trips. There is simply none better.
Scotty WalkerNBA Blue Ribbon National HS Award of Excellence Recipient
I have used Music Travel Consultants for many years with my groups at West Ranch HS and simply put, they're the best! From start to finish Music Travel Consultants takes care of ALL the details in a friendly, professional and quick manner. They make the job of going on tour with an ensemble easy!
Jason A. MarshallDirector West Ranch HS
For anyone who is looking for the ultimate travel organization, go with Music Travel Consultants. They have taken care of our children, the chaperones, all of our faculty and staff. They have stepped up to the plate, non-stop, during our entire experience here in California for the Tournament of Roses Parade. If you want the ultimate in professionalism and care for your family and students, go with Music Travel Consultants.
Camilla M. StasaDirector of Participant Relations and Special Projects, MFA/BOA
I have been using Music Travel Consultants since 2004 and have always been pleased with their organization, professionalism and their ‘can do’ attitude. In 2007 while at BOA Grand Nationals our charter jet broke down just before we were to load to fly home Saturday night. MTC was able to get all 287 of us in a hotel within two hours and set up flights for us the next day. I can’t imagine another agency being able to do that so MTC will always take my group to Indiana!
Mark StoneDirector Emeritus, Ayala HS
Orlando 2018 was a wonderful experience for our students, ensembles, and adult travelers! The tour was designed to provide opportunities for each of the four facets of the music department, the group as a whole, and unique opportunities that would set this trip apart. Our Orlando trip, prepared and presented by Music Travel Consultants, was well organized, creative, and presented in person. MTC's online portal for registeration, payments, and organization. Working with the trip details of rooms, bus lists, payments, and trip documents was a tremendous organizational tool and time saver as a director. The team at Music Travel Consultants delivered an outstanding tour of Disney performances and clinic opportunities for our students. The students enjoyed fun at many of the Disney Parks, great accommodations at Flamingo Crossings, and special events including a final ride on Soarin' and the private party at Test Track. All were a hit and success with the students! Most importantly, the knowledge, expertise, and flexibility of the MTC staff in adjusting meal stops and schedules to accommodate the group made the trip. Thank you to our MTC Orlando Team and everyone at Music Travel Consultants!
Thad DriskellDirector of Bands, Jefferson HS
Chris Forsythe and the MTC team were super in dealing with the postponement of the trip due to the pandemic. The staff's professionalism and accessibility was outstanding as they worked with the numerous questions, concerns, itinerary adjustments and personalities of adult travelers. Chris was always concerned with our safety, happiness in the experiences and comfort for both performances and sight-seeing adventures. Mirjam, our guide, was phenomenal in taking charge, accommodating requests and managing needy travelers, all while loving on us as individuals and as a group. She was funny, direct, strong, compassionate and her heart made us fall in love with her as a person. Tonya and the charter bus were great as well. She kept the coach clean, drove on tiny streets and was flexible with her schedule and time to help us as visitors to her country/city. The performance venues and contacts were unbelievable. Each were unique, friendly and acoustically and musically a blessing to perform in. The participation in the mass at the Basilica de Estrella was a special addition to the concert offerings. The large crowds were welcoming and seemed to love our repertoire. The overall tour way exceeded my expectations. The ENTIRE ensemble, guest travelers and staff were nothing but pleased by our trip and tour experience. - Thanks to all involved.
Scott BradfordArtistic Director, Castlewood Singers
Our experience with Music Travel Consultants was the best travel experience we have had. Music Travel Consultants took care of every detail. The trip was a trip of a lifetime for my students and chaperones. The attention to detail and efficiency was amazing. Everything from the kick-off meeting, attention to our wants and needs, customizing our itinerary, accounting, billing, and especially the customer care was top notch. I can’t wait to take my next MTC trip!
Brian SaylorDirector of Choral Music at Bismarck HS
The staff members at MTC are organized, professional, and courteous. They understand the logistical necessities when traveling with large groups of students and their customer service is SECOND TO NONE.
Brent W. BiskupDirector of Bands, Flower Mound HS
As director of bands at Stephen F. Austin HS, Texas, I took groups to Carnegie Hall, Midwest Clinic and two Bands of America Grand National educational performance trips. Our trip with Music Travel Consultants was, without question, the best organized and most memorable in my 21 years of teaching. Amazing...
Dean WestmanOrchestra Director, Avon HS 3-Time BOA Grand National Champion
In my forty years of teaching high school band I have used three different music travel companies. In my experience, I have found the Music Travel Consultants to be the most professional, most accommodating, and enjoyable company to work with when you are traveling with a large group of students and parents. They are my go to company whenever we begin planning a band trip. I highly recommend this outstanding company.
Bill StultzDirector of Bands, Columbus North HS
Our trip was well received by the staff, students and parents. It was very organized, and it was obvious that a considerable amount of thought was put into the trip. Excellent Job! The Music Travel staff was very friendly, knowledgeable and I thought it was great that they were on the bus with us from the moment we took off until we arrived back home. I would definitely recommend Music Travel to another traveling group. Thanks for an awesome trip!
Chad AllardAssociate Director of Bands, Jefferson HS
Planning a trip through Music Travel Consultants is the best possible option, period. Their knowledge of the music world is beyond helpful when planning and running logistics. They are easy to work with, flexible and handle their business. The no-hassel trip across the country allowed me and my staff to focus on the teaching and making sure the kids were ready to perform.
Joe AveryDirector, Red Wave Indoor
The staff of Music Travel Consultants anticipated our every need. Our Disney trip and performance was a wonderful and stress-free experience for the students, parents, and staff. We plan on working with Music Travel Consultants for our next trip.
Tim KoschDirector of Bands, Franklin Community HS
Music Travel Consultants is fantastic. They do such great work for us and make everything so simple. We get to our place, we know exactly where to be, and what time to be there. They do fantastic work. Love Music Travel Consultants.
Josh ScottRound Rock HS
WGI Sport of the Arts is proud to call Music Travel Consultants our Preferred Travel Partner! Working with the MTC staff is a joy. They are friendly, extremely knowledgeable, timely, but most importantly, they genuinely care that students have unforgettable experiences!
Bart WoodleyDirector of Operations and Sponsor Relations WGI Sport of the Arts
Music Travel Consultants is the only choice for a World-Class experience in group travel. My Travel Designer Chris Forsythe and Tour Director Paige Carter made sure that every detail of booking, organizing and taking a large group out of state went super-smooth. I have nothing but rave reviews for this incredible company. The Rouse Band program is a MTC customer for life!
Jason RobbRouse HS, Director of Bands
MTC was the first travel company I worked with to organize our trip to WGI championships and it will be the only one I will continue to use because of their professionalism and personable customer experience. The knowledgeable staff provided me with insights that helped our ensemble have many rewarding trips that left lasting impressions on all of our students. The guide that joined us have always been warm, welcoming, and extremely accommodating for all of our ensemble’s needs. Thank you to all of the team members that assisted us throughout our journey!
Scott K. TanakaDirector of Percussion, San Marino HS
The attention to details, combined with the technology of cutting-edge travel tools, and topped off with their incredible and caring staff, has long made MTC one of the VERY BEST choices for student music travel in the country. They have always been a national “go to” with bands and orchestras, and for good reason. Now with the addition of Heart of America (HOA) and other upcoming choir events to their roster, MTC has positioned themselves not only as the best in the industry for instrumental ensembles, but for choral ensembles as well. As the creator and (former) owner of Heart of America, I was absolutely thrilled and knew immediately upon meeting Mark and Ryan that HOA would not only survive, but THRIVE with the leadership, vision, technology and staff that MTC brings to the table.
Chad AlexanderHeart of America
Music Travel Consultants is the first choice for the PHHS Choral Department! They consistently display great communication, offer wonderful performance opportunities and genuinely care for the students and parents that travel with them. MTC has made it a breeze to take performance trips full of educational opportunities.
Erin ArcherChoral Director, Pendleton Heights HS
Our experience with Music Travel Consultants has always been world class! Every detail is planned and accounted for in a professional manner. This allows our students and families to enjoy the experience and focus on delivering excellent performances when we travel. I would highly recommend MTC to any ensemble considering travel!
Alex RectorDirector of Bands, Hardin Valley Academy Band
Taking the band to Atlanta for the Peach Bowl was a once in a lifetime experience and one that the students will remember for the rest of their lives. Performing our halftime show in Mercedes-Benz stadium for the Field Competition, as well as marching the parade and performing in the mass band for the bowl game, was incredibly exciting and something that I will never forget. Using Music Travel to put this trip together was the best decision that we could have made. For every major trip, from here on out, we will be in contact with Emily and Music Travel Consultants to make it happen.
Rodney BrownWest HS, Director of Bands
The entire Music Travel Consultants Team is to be commended for an absolutely wonderful experience for my students. From our initial parent meeting to the last handshake after boarding the bus to go home, Music Travel Consultants worked hard to make our students’ experience the best it could be. MTC’s easy accessibility proved to be invaluable, and throughout the planning process MTC provided guidance, offered helpful suggestions, and made the daunting task of putting a trip like this together much less intimidating. I would recommend Music Travel Consultants to anyone interested in traveling with their school music groups, and I wish them nothing but continued success in the future!
Gregg NorrisBand Director, Sidney Senior HS
We were so glad to use Music Travel for our first trip out of state to WGI in California. Our guide was so very helpful and took a ton of pressure off of me during the trip. Not having to deal with bus transportation, where to go for meals and checking in and out of hotels and airports was invaluable to me since I was already in charge of about 30 people. I wouldn't hesitate to use Music Travel again! Thank you for all the help, organization and attention to details!
René Ormae-JarmerKINGSMEN THUNDER Drum Line and Winter Indoor Percussion, Rex Putnam HS
With this our first time competing at Grand Nationals I wanted the students, staff, and parents to have a world class experience and MTC did that for us. They handled every detail for us each step of the way. If anyone is thinking of traveling you must consider MTC; you won’t regret it.
Rickey LangdaleDirector of Bands, Easley HS
When you book your educational, performance trips through Music Travel Consultants you receive an expert agent to assist you with every step along the way. They will work tirelessly to accommodate the vision and purpose of the trip, manage all logistics and will travel with you to assure things run smoothly. I always get impeccable costumer service! I have traveled to Hawaii, California, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, Tennessee and Kansas and Florida with them. MTC is the only company I trust when it comes to school travel.
Deana BrogeChoir Director, Zionsville HS
Valley Christian’s experience teaming with Music Travel Consultants has been nothing short of spectacular. MTC has proven to be an invaluable partner in the planning and execution of our educational travel experiences. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and are dedicated to providing the absolute best customer service each step of the way. Quite simply…they get it!
Troy GunterVice President/Director, Conservatory of the Arts
MTC will be my only call when planning student travel in the future. Customer service is one of their greatest attributes. They have gotten our groups out of many travel jams. I don’t know how they do it but, holding a plane at the gate for an hour and a half for our students to make their connection on one trip, to rebooking with a new charter airline only days before takeoff are some amazing things this great group of professionals can do. Their tour directors become someone on our team who meet or exceed the standard of excellence I have within my own band program. I know I don’t need to worry about the details because MTC ensures everything is taken care of.
David LesserDirector of Bands, Clovis North HS
It was easy to work with Emily to plan our trip. When she visited the school for parent meetings, she was well spoken and presented Music Travel and the trip well. The tour directors were great. Very helpful and professional. We enjoyed our trip and will use Music Travel again for future tours.
Krista RoorbachHeritage Christian School