Touring is a great institution, it forms friendships, independence and respect, while also challenging each member to contribute to the performances every time with sustained effort and commitment. Something that can be difficult when tired.
To the credit of the students, this tour group has been locked in for everything they've done and for everyone in the group from the first day through to the last.
We have touched the emotions of bystanders while singing 'Goodnight Moon' in Grand Central Station, 'The Star Spangled Banner' in Gettysburg, while the strings have brought happiness to so many as they have excelled in their ensemble work, whether it be the powerful 'Christmas Concerto' in Washington, or the engaging 'Plink, Plank, Plunk' for the parish members in Hershey. These are just passing reflections of so many outstanding moments that we have all been part of on this USA tour.
The students have created that intangible feeling, the aesthetic of artistic performance so many times and have been an absolute joy to tour with. More will follow later, but here's a few more shots to enjoy. We're about to head off to our last performance in San Francisco in about 30 mins.
Will post again at the airport tonight. Brad M
3 comments:
Wow. I can't believe the trip is over...It has been an amazing experience for me and the other year 9s and I just want to thank everyone, teachers and students, for helping me through the trip. Couldn't have done it without you :)Wishing all the year 12s the best as they head off into different parts of the world. Thanks for your amazing leadership and friendliness, especially Sergio :P
Dear Tour Parents and Barker Community,
I have been privileged to accompany this tour and share the most amazing times and performances with your children. They are all such special wonderful,enthusiastic and friendly people.I have shed a tear listening to many of their performances and laughed at their snow fights and efforts at counting up to 39 in different ways. I have been amazed at our many wonderful experiences. However the most outstanding contribution to the success of the tour was made by the staff, Dr Merrick, Ms Papaluca, Mr Ellis and Mr Saffir. They were the first up every morning and the last to bed at night. They were never "off duty". In addition to coordinating all the tour connections, hotels, airline check-ins etc, they also found lost shoes, ties, tickets, the best rides at Hersey, gave nutritional advice, tipping education and cheerful banter. In particular Dr Merrick spent several hours every day producing "THE BLOG". His hotel room was a multimedia hub rivaling the White House with camera, leads, extension cords, chargers and computers. On behalf of all the tour families can I express my thanks to the staff and especially Dr Merrick. I would also like to give a special Thank you to the families of the staff. Helen Davis
To all the USA Choir and Strings Tour Students,
Thank You for a great trip. Year 12's, well done and best wishes for your travels and future. To the year 9's, 10's and 11's I will never forget you (no not even you Lizzie and Justin)so please come up and say hello if you see me at Barker. Thanks for the Seal...she made it safely home and she wants to come to Music Camp concert! Helen Davis
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