Band and choir students have been working hard this year, making sure they give the people of Jonathan Alder the best performances they can, and they’ll soon both be rewarded for their efforts when they go to Orlando.
Choir director Nick Mayes explains that the trip is for students to have a chance to broaden their experiences. “…we want our students to be kind of more worldly in a sense, like they’ve explored parts of the world,” he says. “And they’ve performed in places and have memories.”
In mid-February, students that are members of band and/or choir will have a chance to go to Orlando, FL. Fundraisers from throughout the year help to cut costs for students. This trip in particular is noteworthy, as it’s the first time in nine years that choir and band students are travelling together.
“Band goes [on a trip] every four years, and then we go every three years,” says Mayes. “So eventually, the math would equal to a year where we meet, and this is this year.”
According to Mayes, Orlando was selected as the location because it had something to offer both the band and the choir.
Their plan is to depart on the 17 hour bus ride on February 11 and arrive on February 12.
During their time in Orlando, they will visit various Disney-owned locations, such as Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Universal, and more.
During this time, the band will march in the Disney parade and both groups will perform in the theme parks.
The groups will get back on the buses on February 15 and return to the high school in the afternoon of February 16.
Band student and junior Elizabeth Robirds says she is excited for the trip. “I’m most looking forward to going to the Harry Potter section,” she says.
Even the directors are excited; Mayes said he is looking forward to bringing this group of students on a trip.
“I’m looking forward to bringing the combined choirs to Universal, performing at Universal Studios, and [for] The Harmoneers to perform at Disney,” he says.
