Travel + Performance Guide

2019-20 RESOURCE GUIDE TRAVEL + PERFORMANCE THE SECRETS OF NAVIGATING THE ROSE THE FESTIVAL SUCCESSFUL TRAVEL PARADE TO AVOID THE EXPERIENCE: IT’S ALL PLANNING THORNS ABOUT YOU

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24916 BMP Directors Choice 2017 18 Ad_01.indd 1 10/4/17 5:56 PM travel RESOURCE a word from JON TRAVEL SAFETY AND ADVOCACY for Texas Performing Arts Programs

We consider Director’s Choice an industry in the public education system. A great leader. That means we are constantly component of that growth is the ability of innovating to bring fine arts educators performing students to travel inside and not only the best options in travel and outside of the state. I want our network performance for their students, but the of Texas fine arts educators and pro- safest ones as well. Unfortunately, not all grams to have the security of knowing travel suppliers who work with students that their Texas-based tour operators are vigilant about safety standards and are held to a higher standard in order to JON LOCKE ethical business practices. This not only protect students, fine art programs and Owner & CEO hurts the student youth travel industry, schools. but impacts students, fine arts programs, and educators. The purpose of the TSTOA is to support best business practices of Texas owned As a long time member of the Student & tour operators engaged in promoting and Youth Travel Association (SYTA), Direc- providing travel experiences for Texas tor’s Choice believes in the develop- students and youth to enhance their ment, promotion, and advocacy for safe, social, cultural, and educational growth. professional, student group travel across The Association creates and maintains all sectors. That’s why I am donating my systems which proactively provide time and energy by serving on the Board oversight of potential problems affecting of Directors of SYTA. As a former educa- youth travel in Texas. In addition, TSTOA’s tor, I have seen first hand the life-chang- educational resources are developed to ing impact of performance travel on a empower group travel leaders, educa- student. I want to preserve and enable tors, school administrators, and district the youth travel industry to continue business officers to ask the right ques- to offer our students safe and valuable tions of bidding vendors to ensure that experiences to travel, learn and perform their traveling students and funds will across the globe. While SYTA has been a remain protected. tremendous advocate on a global scale for safe and impactful youth travel, I want to bring these safe travel standards and advocacy to Texas.

Earlier this year, Director’s Choice supported the creation of the Texas Student Tour Operators Association (TSTOA). Our company’s foundation is based on the strength of Texas’ fine arts programs

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 1 table of CONTENTS

A Word from Jon...... 1 Performance Event Schedule...... 3 AFFILIATIONS Performance Products...... 4 It’s Scientifically Proven that Student Travel Matters...... 6 EXPLORE TEXAS San Antonio...... 8 Dallas/Ft. Worth...... 14 The Festival Experience: It’s All About You...... 18 Houston/Galveston...... 20 South Padre Island...... 22 Austin...... 23 El Paso...... 23 TOP TRAVEL PICKS Central Florida...... 24 Disney Youth Programs...... 26 Travel Safe Certification...... 27 Hawaii...... 28 New York...... 30 Dance Travel Q&A...... 32 Value of a Tour Director...... 33 Five Burroughs: A Different New York Experience...... 34 Gibney Group Study - Customizable Contemporary Dance Opportunities...... 35 FEATURED DESTINATION: NASHVILLE...... 37 The Secrets of Successful Travel Planning...... 40 EXPLORE THE SOUTH Memphis...... 44 How Motorcoach Monitoring and Enforcement Impacts Your Itinerary...... 45 Branson...... 46 Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg...... 48 Be a Teacher, Not a Bill Collector with Director’s Choice Individual Billing...... 49 New Orleans...... 50 EXPLORE THE WEST Colorado Springs...... 52 Seattle...... 53 Parades & Special Events...... 54 Navigating the Rose Parade and Avoiding the Thorns...... 55 Southern California...... 56 Parallel Trips for Non-Chaperoning Parents...... 58 San Diego...... 59 EXPLORE THE MIDWEST Chicago...... 60 The Midwest Clinic...... 63 Proud Supporter of St. Louis...... 64 Indianapolis...... 64 Do-It-Yourself - The Music Program Fixer Upper...... 66 EXPLORE THE EAST COAST Boston...... 68 Destination Leadership: Add a Leadership Component to Your Itinerary...... 69 Washington DC...... 70 European Performing Arts Tours...... 72 directorschoice.travel TRAVEL ABROAD Italy...... 73 Find Us On United Kingdom...... 74 Ireland...... 75 Montreal/Quebec...... 76 P

March April April April May May May 27-28 3-4 17-18 24-25 1-2 8-9 15-16

Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX

San Antonio, TX

South Padre Island, TX

Colorado Springs, CO

Corpus Christi, TX

Houston, TX

New Orleans, LA

New York, NY March 9 Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall

May 1 Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX Richardson High School May 8

Corpus Christi, TX April 28 TAMU - Corpus Christi

Jan 31/Feb 1, 2020 - Richardson Performance Hall, Del Mar College, Corpus Christi, TX

Feb 28/29, 2020 - Oak Ridge High School, Conroe, TX

Feb 28/29, 2020 - Dallas, Houston & San Antonio, TX. Performance Venues: TBD

June 4-7, 2020 - Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, San Antonio, TX Clinician: Dr. Susan Brumﬁeld, Texas Tech University

FULL PERFORMANCE SCHEDULES ARE ONLINE AT DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL Dates subject to change REVS. 2/6/19 Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 3 FESTIVAL & PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS TO FIT ANY NEED

Our foundation is in music education. We provide you and your students quality performance options that Non-Competitive Competitive Event with Ratings Competitive Event with Ratings Non-Competitive Non-Competitive educate and inspire. Whether and Rankings and Rankings Amusement Park or you are looking for a park Premier Recording Venue World Class Concert Venue Family Entertainment Venue State-of-the-art Venue State-of-the-art Venue performance, a competitive Professional Recording Engineer Professional Archival Recording festival, a premier Performance Review Professional Recording Professional Recording performance venue 1 Hour on Stage Participation Award 3-Adjudicator Panel Premier Participation Award experience or simply a high 3-Adjudicator Panel Concert Program quality recording, Director’s Informal Performance Performance Review Performance Review 3 hour honor concert or Choice has an option to meet Atmosphere Sound Check 40 minutes stage time your needs. Up to 35 Minutes including Up to 35 Minutes including Outstanding Section Student Review Review Professional Guidance from Concert Program Awards Recording Engineer and Award Ceremony Premier Awards Site Coordinator Performance Poster

Amusement Park

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New York Dallas/Ft. Worth Houston Chicago Houston Dallas/Ft. Worth Corpus Christi Dallas/Ft. Worth Seattle San Antonio San Antonio Colorado Springs Corpus Christi Boston Austin South Padre Island New Orleans Philadelphia El Paso Lubbock Los Angeles FESTIVAL & PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS TO FIT ANY NEED

Amusement Park

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IT’S SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN that Student Travel Matters

Student travel is transformational, and TRAVEL TRANSFORMS STUDENTS TRAVEL IMPACTS TEACHERS AND we can prove it. A recent study by the Research findings also tell us student SCHOOL COMMUNITY Student Youth Travel Association (SYTA) travel prompts a transformation through Students are not the only ones benefiting gathered quantitative data from a repre- which students grow their ambitions to from school trips. For as many as 78% of sentative sample of U.S. teachers for a re- know, learn and explore. Respondents teachers, satisfaction comes in the form liable measurement of the social impact of all types confirm that students who of their students’ happiness. The survey of domestic and international trips. travel are more motivated to seek fur- shows that 29% receive no financial com- The findings tell us the travel experience ther education, progress in their social pensation at all. These factors demon- of students triggers a process of acceler- competences and improvement of a wide strate their motivation to organize school ated personal development, contributes array of abilities. Additionally, traveling trips is altruistic in nature. to better academic performance and im- students show improved intellectual mo- proves social interaction between young tivation and curiosity as well as increased Source: Student & Youth Travel Digest: people. tolerance and respectfulness of other Part 1: Social Impact of Student Travel on cultures. Students and Teachers Student travel provides practical learning about other cultures. The majority “The trip I received has Student & Youth Travel Association of teachers in this SYTA study organize % (SYTA) is the nonprofit, professional trade student trips because they want their stu- changed my life forever.” association that promotes student and dents to become more culturally aware. youth group travel. It seeks to foster Proportion of students experiencing such impact, Even more, student travel is reported 68 integrity and professionalism among stu- as reported by teachers. to be significantly more effective than dent and youth travel service providers. computer-based learning and classroom Travel experiences stay with students SYTA members play an important role in instruction alone. for the rest of their lives. Do you re- facilitating both domestic mobility and member that high school band trip to international incoming and outgoing mo- Disney World or your middle school choir bility, worldwide. As the voice of student trip to Six Flags? Educators agree that and youth travel, SYTA represents U.S., travel is contagious, and 60% noticed an Canadian and international tour opera- increased desire for more travel experi- tors, group travel leaders, travel agencies, ences in the future. destinations and other student travel suppliers. The research shows travel is not only a standard teaching resource, but is also Director’s Choice has met the rigorous significantly more effective than tradition- standards of safety, solvency and ethical al forms of education. When asked about practices as a SYTA Travel Operator. the relation to pursuing further studies, 37% of respondents claimed travel is extremely effective in preparing students STEPHANIE FOX Director of Marketing for college. Director’s Choice

6 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide get inspired Six Flags Fiesta Texas, young scholars have an opportunity to experience one of the the of experienceone Texas,to Fiesta opportunity haveFlags an scholars Six young and Antonio, San Aquatica and SeaWorld Walk, River the to Arts, Performing the for Center Tobin the and museums world-class From attractions. modern through waiting to be explored. The story and origins of San Site—just Antonio continueHeritage Worldto be UNESCO celebrated missions—a century 18th including past, storied our of Today,remindersculture. daily and havehistorywe with alive is Antonio San Get inspired at VisitSanAntonio.com United States’ most uniquedestinations. in San Antonio.

©2018 Visit San Antonio explore TEXAS SAN ANTONIO San Antonio captures the spirit of Texas. It’s a modern city whose heritage, culture, tradition, and natural beauty combine into a unique blend that attracts extraordinary adventures.

PERFORMANCE EVENTS

YOUTH CHORUS The Alamo

SeaWorld® San Antonio

8 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide RESTAURANTS Alamo Cafe Café Olé Dave & Buster’s Gristmill River Restaurant Hard Rock Cafe Joe’s Crab Shack Lone Star Cafe Los Barrios Magic Time Machine Margaritaville Michelino’s Magnolia Pancake House Rainforest Cafe Spaghetti Warehouse

EXPLORE Double Decker Bus City Tour Guinness World Record Museums Natural Bridge Caverns Ripley’s Haunted Adventure San Antonio Riverboat Cruise San Antonio Zoo Tejas Rodeo The Amazing Mirror Maze Tower of The Americas Observation Deck The Alamo Wax Works

The River Walk LEARN Battle for Texas San Antonio Missions National Historical Park San Antonio Symphony The Buckhorn Museum Tour

PERFORM Tobin Center for the Performing Arts Lila Cockrell Theatre Main Event Schlitterbahn New Braunfels Six Flags Fiesta Texas The Tobin Center for Performing Arts + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 9 SAN ANTONIO

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JUSTICE LEAGUE and all related characters and elements © & ™ DC Comics. (s18)

is pleased to present

A YOUTH CHORUS EVENT in SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS June 4-7, 2020

Join Youth Conductor and Artistic Director Dr. Susan Brum eld for the inaugural Director’s Choice Youth Choral Festival. Held in downtown San Antonio, Texas, Festival Musicalé will oer two days of clinic/rehearsal for your youth choral organization, culmi- nating on the third day with our feature choir and mass chorus gala concert in the beautiful Tobin Center.

Conductor & Artistic Director Dr. Susan Brum eld Dr. Susan Brum eld, Director’s Choice Youth Choral Festival Conductor and Artistic Director will be leading the 250-voice Festival Musicale and Choral Workshop sessions. Dr. Brum eld is Professor of Music Education at Texas Tech University and holds a Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of Oklahoma. She is widely known throughout the United States and the United Kingdom as a clinician, consultant, author, composer, arranger, and conductor of children's choirs, and is an internationally recognized Kodaly educator.

Directors Choice Youth Choral Festival 2019 is open to boy choirs, girl choirs, mixed treble choirs, and young women’s choirs ages 9 -18.

YOUTH 2019 877-328-2583 CHORUS directorschoice.travel #rememberthefestival 877-328-2583

2018 2018

New 2018 COLORADO SPRINGS Orleans DON’T OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR! MISS OUT! 2018 SPECIAL TOUR OPERATOR RATES FOR UP TO 3 UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS! 301 Alamo Plaza, Corner of Alamo Plaza & Crockett Street 201-224-9299 | Ripleys.com/SanAntonio ©Ripley Entertainment Inc. directorschoice.travel DALLAS + FT. WORTH Dallas offers a unique blend of experiences. Southwestern warmth pairs with cosmopolitan flair. Old West charm meets modern sophistication. Also, education and entertainment go hand-in-hand. Thrill-seekers can conquer Six Flags Over Texas and then take a breather in one of the area’s many museums.

PERFORMANCE EVENTS

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Medieval Times

14 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide explore TEXAS

RESTAURANTS Buca di Beppo Campisi’s Restaurant Hard Rock Cafe Joe’s Crab Shack Six Flags Over Texas Rainforest Cafe Spaghetti Warehouse

EXPLORE Cowboys Stadium Tour Dallas Arboretum Dallas Arts District Dallas Galleria Medieval Times Reunion Tower Observation Deck Six Flags Over Texas SpeedZone Texas Rangers Game PinStack Bowl Ripley’s Believe It or Not

LEARN Dallas Aquarium Dallas Museum of Art Dallas Symphony Orchestra Meyerson Symphony Center Tour Perot Museum of Nature & Science The Sixth Floor Museum Ft. Worth Zoo

PERFORM The Eisemann Center MCL Grand Theater Mesquite Arts Center Meyerson Symphony Center St. Andrews UMC UNT Murchison PAC iT’Z Family Food and Fun Director’s Choice Award Ceremony Six Flags Over Texas + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 15 STRIKE THE RIGHT CHORD WITH SOUND. tes. Dallas is a city with many sides. That’s what makes it such a great place to visit. Admire towering beasts and the Giant Gems of the Smithsonian in the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Then explore history at the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, or take in panoramic views from the GeO-Deck at the top of Reunion Tower. Finally, catch an unforgettable show at the AT&T Performing Arts Center, home to concerts, musicals, dance and more. Whether you’re discovering history or watching as it’s made on stage, Dallas always strikes the right chord.

PICTURED: CASTRO LOCATION: PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE

APPLAUSE-WORTHY EVENTS ARE RIGHT UP OUR ALLEY

PINSTACK oers a fun and unique space for your next event. With 28 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, two-level laser tag arena, indoor rock climbing wall, high-ropes course and video games, PINSTACK will be your group’s favorite destination. PINSTACK also features chef-prepared menu items that can be part of a delicious catered buet or plated dishes. Our event planners would love to help plan your next event! Please visit our website to learn more or request information.

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SOME EXPERIENCES ARE TOO GOOD TO KEEP TO YOURSELF

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from this experience and the one I have your group’s chart specifications so you MADISON CHESTER now as an employee, I am constantly and your group can focus on getting in Marketing Assistant Director’s Choice trying to articulate what sets us apart performance mode. from other companies. The answer I’ve come up with is this: from the moment PERFORMANCE VENUE you roll up to the venue, it’s all about you! To give you a look into how we accomplish this, I want to walk through the Director’s Choice festival process.

ARRIVAL The staff who run our music festivals include both retired and current music educators coupled with students from a local music program. Because of their Director’s Choice has the best venues first-hand experience as music educators, in the business because we want your they know what you need and expect students to experience performing at a from your festival experience. When state of the art concert venue. Aesthetics you arrive at the festival venue, you are important – you and your students It’s Performance Day! Whether you are are greeted at the bus and escorted should be wowed when you step on a first-year teacher, 10-year veteran by the site coordinator to the check-in. stage. Additionally, we want you to or a performing student, performance Once you are checked in, greeters will sound your very best, so an evaluation day brings with it a rush of emotions show your group to the holding area to of a venue’s acoustics is critical. During for everyone. Excitement, nerves, and uncase instruments and change clothes your performance, a cutting-edge expectations are high. if necessary. When everyone is ready archival recording is made. To ensure to go, you will move to the warm-up your performance maintains its original That is why for more than 20 years room. In order to get the most out of warm, organic sound both live and on Director’s Choice has rolled out the red your warm up, the room will be set up to your recording, the acoustics must be carpet for our festival customers and balanced. students. We place your experience above all else when you perform at one ADJUDICATION of our festivals: Showcase of Music, Your performance Scholastic Music Festival, and Music will be adjudicated Across Texas. by experienced, qualified educators. I should know. As a choir and band We have a stringent student, I had the opportunity to travel adjudicator on 12 Director’s Choice trips and attend selection process nine Director’s Choice festivals. Drawing and training to

18 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide travel RESOURCE

be sure our judges give constructive celebrations in theme parks and help end but positive feedback to you and your the trip on a really high note. students. After your performance, one of these adjudicators will come on stage You may not realize that Director’s Choice and give a performance review. When was started as a festival company. Our the adjudicator finishes speaking with owner (and my dad) developed Director’s your students, you and your group will be Choice because he wanted more for escorted off stage and helped back to the his students than the festival options holding room to pack up and change out available to them at that time. That’s why of your performance clothes. the festival experience from the student perspective is so important to us and is foundational in the development of our performance products.

My Director’s Choice experiences gave me memories that will last a lifetime. I am grateful that my directors “Never Settled” and took me and my peers each year to a Director’s Choice festival.

AWARDS At the conclusion of each performance, every group receives a trophy. The awards ceremony setting is dependent on the festival you attend. Our Scholastic Music Festival ceremonies run parallel to the festival itself because of the competitive, academic nature. Each group receives their premier awards at a private, mini-ceremony. Our Showcase of Music is more than just a festival, it is an experience. True to this spirit, the Showcase ceremonies are high-energy

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 19 explore TEXAS HOUSTON+GALVESTON

Nicknamed “Space City,” Houston is truly out of this world. One of the largest cities in the US, Houston offers an array of activities from the beaches of Galveston, to museums and galleries.

RESTAURANTS Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Buca di Beppo Hard Rock Cafe Landry’s Seafood House Lighthouse Buffet Rainforest Cafe Spaghetti Warehouse

EXPLORE ComedySportz Improv Show Houston Astros Baseball Houston Grand Opera Kemah Boardwalk Pleasure Pier

LEARN Downtown Aquarium Space Center Houston Houston Zoo Moody Gardens Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Natural Science Space Center Houston

PERFORM Moores Opera House St. Paul’s United Methodist Church Lee College PAC iT’Z Family Food and Fun + many more!

Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston Moody Gardens

PERFORMANCE EVENTS View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

20 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide CORPUS CHRISTI explore TEXAS

Experience a new standard in travel along the charming Corpus Christi coast. Conveniently located lodging is minutes away from the action, ensuring you don’t waste a moment while taking pleasure in the natural gifts of the coast. Don’t miss the touch pools of the Texas State Aquarium or the Naval Aviation Museum and USS Lexington.

RESTAURANTS Joe’s Crab Shack Landry’s Seafood House Pier 99

EXPLORE Corpus Christi Beaches Corpus Christi Hooks Baseball Funtracker’s Family Fun Hurricane Alley Waterpark Schlitterbahn Waterpark

LEARN Texas State Aquarium USS Lexington

PERFORM Del Mar College Texas A&M Corpus Christi PAC USS Lexington + many more!

PERFORMANCE EVENTS

USS Lexington

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 21 explore TEXAS SOUTH PADRE ISLAND Sun, fun, and music all go together at South Padre Island. With its warm tropical temperatures, white beaches, and the emerald waters, South Padre is THE premier resort destination in Texas. Located on the southern tip of Texas, it is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico & Laguna Madre Bay.

RESTAURANTS BBQ Dinner Cruise Blackbeard’s Louie’s Backyard Padre Style Luau and Cruise

EXPLORE Amphibious Vehicle Land and Sea Tour Beach Activities Black Dragon Pirate Cruise Dolphin Watching Cruise Gladys Porter Zoo Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark

LEARN Sandcastle Building Lesson Sea Turtle Inc.

PERFORM Harlingen Municipal Auditorium Texas Southmost College - The Arts Center + many more!

PERFORMANCE EVENTS

Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

22 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide travel RESOURCE AUSTIN

Known as the “live music capital of the world,” Austin’s vibrant entertainment and cultural landscape makes it one of the most inspiring cities to visit. From food, to arts and music, Austin is a premier destination for anyone and everyone.

PERFORMANCE EVENTS

EL PASO

El Paso is located at the western tip of Texas, where Texas, New Mexico and Old Mexico meet. It is the largest international metroplex in the world and seamlessly blends cultures and traditions. Experience everything from the historic Old West to the colors of Mexico, and discover the heritage of Native Americans set against the beauty of the desert sunset.

PERFORMANCE EVENTS

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 23 CENTRAL FLORIDA

Whether you are looking for a magical performance, seeking the thrill of the theme park, or both, Central Florida is a great travel choice! Check out all the options to perform and play in the Florida sunshine.

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES ©Disney

Kennedy Space Center

24 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide top travel PICKS

RESTAURANTS Beach Barbecue at Cocoa Beach Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Buca di Beppo Hard Rock Cafe Medieval Times Planet Hollywood T-Rex Cafe

EXPLORE Blue Man Group Cocoa Beach Disney Springs® Walt Disney World® Resort I-Drive 360 SeaWorld Universal CityWalk The Hub Kissimmee Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure

LEARN Disney Youth Education Series Programs Kennedy Space Center Universal Studios Florida PERFORM Festival Disney Disney Performing Arts Performances Disney Performing Arts Workshops Stars Performance Program + many more!

Epcot®

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 25 DISNEY YOUTH PROGRAMS As a Recognized Youth Travel Planner, Director’s Choice has partnered with Disney Youth Programs to offer unique and inspiring opportunities for our performing groups. Below is a sampling of the most popular performance and workshop offerings for instrumental, vocal and dance groups to Disney World, Florida, or Disneyland, California.

Disney Performing Arts Performances Vocal or Instrumental Soundtrack Session • Instrumental, Vocal, Dance • 90-minute workshop • Perform on a Disney stage in front of • Perform and record a varied an international audience repertoire of Disney music

©Disney ©Disney ©Disney

INSTRUMENTAL VOCAL DANCE Festival Disney Disney Sings Dance 101 & Dance 201 • Adjudicated performance • 2 ½-hour workshop to learn the • 90-minute, high-energy workshop music and basic choreography from opportunity for middle and high gives dancers the opportunity to a real Disney production number school instrumental groups shine as they learn choreography • Learn vocal techniques to improve adapted from a Disney production diction and produce unified vowel You’re Instrumental number exclusively for Disney sounds using 3- and 4-part music • 2 ½-hour workshop ending in a very Performing Arts!

special finale Disney’s Broadway Magic • Led by professional Disney show • Examine the skills, attitudes, and • 2 ½-hour workshop blends Disney directors and choreographers, priorities essential to musical magic with the glitz of live musical each ensemble receives a valuable excellence theater critique and learns the importance • A Disney teaching artist will take of the individual’s contribution to the Jazz It Up your group through the same overall success of the group • Enter the world of a professional jazz rehearsal process used for Disney musician through this intensive Broadway musicals Dance Audition Workshop 2 ½-hour workshop • 90-minute session follows in the Show Choir • Rehearse and record jazzy renditions footsteps of Disneyland Resort • 90-minute workshop uses Disney of several Disney songs under the performers as dancers go through show material to usher students direction of a Disney teaching artist the process of a simulated audition through the rehearsal phase all the • Work together to learn way to a final performance that is recorded and screened for review choreography from an actual Disney • Explore the challenges of learning production and gain valuable insight and performing a full production from a Disney teaching artist on how number during this high-energy to make your audition shine! course

26 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide TRAVEL SAFE CERTIFICATION SAFE Is Your Student Travel Company Certified? CERTIFICATION

Keeping students safe is our number Whether or not you travel with Direc- BUSINESS PROTECTION CERTIFICATIONS one priority. That’s why Director’s tor’s Choice, we believe all student Setting the standard in the student travel industry for trans- Choice has taken the initiative and travel operators and suppliers should parency, ethics and fiscal responsibility is foundational for formally adopted safe industry stan- be held to similar safety standards. Director’s Choice. We honor the trust that districts, group dards as well as developing our own leaders, and parents have placed in us to deliver a valuable rigorous TRAVEL SAFE certifications. EMERGENCY RESPONSE CERTIFICATIONS product and service as promised and expected. While we hope to never encounter • Proof of business efficacy Our TRAVEL SAFE Certification pro- an emergency with our traveling • Business license & mailing address gram includes: groups, we want to be prepared to • Organization insurance • Clearly scripted policies and ensure cool heads and steady hands • Consumer protection guarantee procedures should unexpected in order to manage appropriately and • Laws, regulations & licensing issues arise. minimize risk. • Industry code of ethics • Thoroughly vetted supplier safety • 24/7 On-call protocol expectations and practices for all • Emergency response plan SAFE BEHAVIOR CERTIFICATIONS contracted vendors. • First aid, CPR and AED training Working with students means we must take extra precau- • Transparent and ethical business • Active shooter training tions with everyone they may come into contact with while practices. • Lost traveler procedure on a Director’s Choice trip. That not only includes our staff • Incident reporting but all contract employees and suppliers. • Background checks • Staff background checks • Sexual harassment

SUPPLIER CERTIFICATIONS Our travel suppliers are an extension of our company. We hold them accountable to the same rigorous standards we demand of ourselves. • Verified motorcoach transportation • Supplier verification certification

PROFESSIONAL CREDIBILITY CERTIFICATIONS We do not tolerate shoddy itineraries, poorly planned excur- sions or insufficient group logistics. • 10 Point itinerary analysis • Professional tour directors

PRE-TRAVEL CERTIFICATIONS Being prepared to travel with a student group not only requires planning from a tour company, it also requires preparation and resources for the group leader, chaperones, and school administrations. • Package reviews and trip audits • Self-guided tour resources • Pre-departure safety briefing

POST-TRAVEL CERTIFICATIONS We believe in never settling. Client feedback is critical to our never-ending improvement of safer practices and improved responsiveness in all situations. • Client satisfaction survey

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 27 top travel PICKS HAWAII Take your group to paradise this year and enjoy the beauty of Hawaii’s sandy beaches and sensational sunsets. Perform at historic Pearl Harbor, hike to the top of Diamond Head, and experience a traditional Hawaiian Luau! Oahu is filled with fun, adventure, and education Performance opportunities are varied and unique.

RESTAURANTS Bubba Gump’s Shrimp Co. Buca di Beppo Hard Rock Cafe Germaine’s Luau Paradise Cove Luau

EXPLORE Aloha Stadium Marketplace Diamond Head State Monument Grand Ali’i Polynesian Tour Honolulu Highlights Tour Kualoa Movie Tour North Shore Tour Pearl Harbor & USS Missouri Snorkeling Surfing Waikiki Beach

LEARN Dole Plantation Pearl Harbor Tour Polynesian Cultural Center

PERFORM Ala Moana Center USS Bowfin/Pearl Harbor Performance USS Bowfin/Pearl Harbor + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

28 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide top travel PICKS

Pearl Harbor Memorial

directorschoice.travel #ITSJUSTWHATWEDO

NEW YORK Take a bite out of The Big Apple and explore the city that never sleeps. From skyscrapers to sprawling Central Park, the sites will never disappoint.

5 B Itinerary: • Luna Park and DeKalb Market Hall in Brooklyn • Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens • The Bronx Zoo and New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx • The Esplanade & Postcards September 11th Memorial on Staten Island • Broadway show and New York style pizza in Manhattan Alice in Wonderland - Central Park

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

STERN AUDITORIUM + PERELMAN STAGE at CARNEGIE HALL

Top of the Rock® Statue of Liberty

30 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide top travel PICKS

RESTAURANTS Apple Metro Carmine’s Ellen’s Stardust Diner Hard Rock Cafe HB Burger Hornblower Dinner Cruise John’s Pizzeria Opry City Stage Restaurant Planet Hollywood Puglia in Little Italy

EXPLORE Blue Man Group Broadway Shows City Tours Empire State Building Deck Luna Park on Coney Island Madame Tussauds Radio City Music Hall Tour Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Staten Island Ferry Statue Cruises Top of the Rock Observation Deck

LEARN American Museum of Natural History Broadway Broadway & Dance Group Workshops Bronx Zoo Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises Intrepid Museum Jazz at Lincoln Center Lincoln Center Tour Metropolitan Museum of Art Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center Museum of Modern Art National Geographic Encounter National September 11th Memorial New York City Ballet New York Philharmonic One World Observatory

PERFORM National September 11th Memorial Carnegie Hall Cathedral of St. John Divine Intrepid Museum Performance Performing Arts Festival View sample itineraries online at: The Offstage Group + many more! DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 31 travel RESOURCE

STACY DONALSON DANCE TRAVEL Charmers Dance Team Head Director Questions and Answers Chisholm Trail High School

What is the value of travel for your group? What advice/tips might you share The best advice I can give someone I love to create unique opportunities for my dancers as with a colleague who is thinking traveling with their students is to traveling with your team is a once-in-a-lifetime experience about traveling with their students? be over-the-top organized! Another they may never get to do again. Traveling with your team- great trick is to communicate with mates creates strong bonds within the members and also Making memories that your trip group using the Remind App allows them to see and experience new things in different to keep everyone on the same page places. I was extended this experience in high school and last a lifetime is what this with what the plans are and any last college and loved every moment and I want that opportu- job is all about! I just love minute location or time changes. This nity for my dancers. seeing them smile and is a great way to keep everyone in the laugh together! know if you are separated into smaller Discuss how you choose a destination and why. groups. I typically gravitate to family-friendly destinations that are accustomed to large groups and are able to accommodate us for a fun & safe trip!

How do you incorporate performance into your itinerary? We are a dance team and would never travel without show- casing our talent! I have done both circuits…competition based travel and performance-based travel. I love both! The competition aspect is fierce competition from all over the United States and gives my team the opportunity to see other groups and how diverse each team truly is. The performance-based trip is extraordinary! Not only do we get to show off what we can do, but it’s also fun to perform and stress-free!

Share a favorite memory of traveling with your group. My favorite memory from traveling with previous groups is watching them break free from practice & performance mode and have genuine fun together on our trip excur- sions. Making memories that last a lifetime is what this job is all about! I just love seeing them smile and laugh together!

32 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide VALUE OF A TOUR DIRECTOR travel RESOURCE

You have finally decided to take the BIG trip. You’ve done ticular activity and make sure no one experience. That’s why they signed the planning, the meal selection, chosen your activities, now is either rushed or bored. Navigating a up for this crazy and exciting career. all that is left to do is enjoy your trip….right? Wrong! How do group of 200 kids through Navy Pier in Sharing a love of travel and new expe- you check in at the airport? Where do you meet your buses? Chicago takes skill and careful timing. riences is what drives them to do this Was lunch at Hard Rock on Tuesday or Wednesday? Who is Just calculating the time to get on and year after year. going to manage the cash backs? All valid questions, and all off the bus for a photo stop can eat up the reasons why we suggest you consider using a profession- way more time that you anticipated. When you hire a tour director with al tour director. So having someone who can continu- Director’s Choice, you can be assured ously make tweaks and adjustments you are never traveling alone and LICENSED AND PROFESSIONALLY TRAINED to your itinerary so you arrive to your there will be someone there every Lots of people say they are a tour director, but Director’s destination on time and relaxed is step of the way to make sure this is Choice has partnered with the International Tour Manager invaluable. a trip of a lifetime for you and your Institute (ITMI) to hire licensed and professionally trained students. tour directors for our complex itineraries. Did you know that THEY CARE ABOUT YOUR TRIP in New York and Washington, D.C. you must have a sight- You will find any great tour director seeing guide license to guide or direct people to any place at the end of the food line, the front MARCIE TRUBY or point of public interest or to describe, explain or lecture of the bus and in the middle of any Director of Operations about any place or point of public interest to any person in unexpected happenings. It’s their job Director’s Choice connection with any sightseeing trip or tour within the city? to care about you and your students All of our guides are professionally licensed, trained and trip and to ensure you have a great working full time as guides across the United States and internationally. It’s not just their hobby, it’s their job and they take your trip very seriously.

ANTICIPATING THE UNEXPECTED Professional tour directors know that the unexpected is to be expected when it comes to travel. They never trust drive times in New York City or that the rain headed your way will conveniently stop at just the right time. It’s their job to come up with a snowman building contest when your flight is canceled, take an impromptu tour of Central Park when your cruise is delayed or throw an ice cream party at the hotel when you didn’t have time for dessert before your concert started. (All true scenarios from Director’s Choice tour directors.) They have tricks up their sleeves that can save the day and turn a mishap into the best part of your trip.

TRAINED DESTINATION EXPERTS ITMI graduates have continuous opportunities to train and learn more about destinations through continuing education courses. A good tour guide is a sponge and has a zest for learning and travel and they want to pass that along to your students. And, not only can they tell you the history of the Hollywood Bowl, they know where the shortest lines for bathrooms are in Disney World, and can tell you where to find the best bowl of ramen in New York. Great guides are licensed, keep up on the latest travel technology, have a desire to always learn more and have the safety training to make sure your group has an amazing and trouble free trip.

KEEP YOU ON SCHEDULE We want our group leaders to enjoy the trip as much as their students. That’s why having someone else watching the clock and keeping you on track is invaluable. The best tour directors can quickly gauge a group’s interest level in a par-

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 33 travel RESOURCE

FIVE BURROUGHS: A Different New York Experience 5B

I’ve been sending students all over the globe for nearly 15 years in my opera- The 5Bs itinerary includes: tions role at Director’s Choice. During my • Luna Park and DeKalb Market years, I, too, have traveled extensively, Hall in Brooklyn vetting destinations and attractions for Flushing Meadows Corona Park our student groups. Although there • are so many places that I haven’t had a in Queens chance to see yet, I can’t help but want • The Bronx Zoo and New York to revisit my favorites, finding new and Botanical Garden in the Bronx different ways to explore a city. • The Esplanade & Postcards Sep- New York is a perfect example of a favor- tember 11th Memorial on Staten Broadway ite, that no matter how many times I visit, Island there is still more to do and see. As one Broadway show and New York of our most popular performance desti- • nations, NYC is visited by many groups style pizza in Manhattan year after year, so we have created a unique travel offering for those groups who want to see a different New York the next time around. JOHANNA FEMINEAR Travel Coordinator Director’s Choice The Five Boroughs (5Bs) trip is for the adventurous group who wants to see and do something different, to get out of Midtown and off of Manhattan. September 11th Memorial

I like to get a sense of what it’s like to live in the places I visit. People watch. See what other people drive, wear, or buy. The 5Bs itinerary allows you to take students off the beaten path and get a sense for what life in New York offers outside of the traditional tourist attractions.

The 5Bs itinerary is available for spring and summer 2020 travel. Ask your travel consultant for details and pricing.

Luna Park Bronx Zoo

34 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide GIBNEY GROUP STUDY travel RESOURCE Customizable Contemporary Dance Opportunities

ideal for groups from schools looking to learn are offered cover- SUSAN EPSTEIN about the NYC contemporary dance scene. ing topics such as: Gibney Producing Director, Residencies are 100% customizable and can Choreographers Group Study range from one class, to one day, to two days & Auditions; Arts or longer. & Social Justice; Living and Work- Gibney Dance, founded in 1991 by choreog- SAMPLE ACTIVITIES ing in the Arts; rapher Gina Gibney, is a multi-faceted dance Technique & Repertory Classes Choose from Going to College organization occupying two locations in New the dozens of technique classes offered daily to Dance, and York City. Gibney’s Group Study program is a at Gibney, or arrange private master classes. more. great addition to a dance group’s New York City travel itinerary. Students in the Group Community Action Master Classes Experience Study Program workshops which explore movement as a The Harkness Center for Dance Injuries and learn from Gib- tool for change and empowerment, based on Career Transition for Dancers also offer panels ney’s renowned Gibney Dance Company’s work with survivors focused on Injury Prevention and Making a faculty and work- of intimate partner violence and the Artist as Living in Dance. ing artists during Agents of Change program. their stay, in a Digital Technology Initiative Workshops range of contexts: Audition Workshops: Mock auditions with Gibney’s Digital Technology Initiative offers master classes, working artists allow students to develop the workshops exploring sound design, projec- panel discus- skills and confidence to audition for college tions, and incorporating digital technology into sions, workshops programs or find dance work in New York City. artistic practice. and more. This experience is Panel Discussions: Private panel discussions Photos Credit: Gibney/Scott Shaw

perform at Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage at on CARNEGIE

over Directors Choice provides the most accessible opportunity for student 100 performance groups to cross this years esteemed stage with the Premier of history Performance Invitational.

today ITSJUSTWHATWEDO . AT THE COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME® AND MUSEUM

Encounter the music and history of the Museum, the classic art of Hatch Show Print, and the celebrated recordings of Historic RCA Studio B. Our tours and programs are fun and educational. Check out these two featured student experiences and visit our website to see all our wide-ranging student offerings.

INSIDE TRACKS WITH MEGHAN LINSEY AND TYLER CAIN Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum • Duration: 1 hour A true day in the life of a musician—from songwriting and performing to professionalism in the music industry—this program covers it all. Co-write and produce a song from scratch with Nashville recording artist Meghan Linsey and record producer Tyler Cain, who will help your group compose a beat and write accompanying parts to your original track.

STAR FOR A DAY: STUDENT RECORDING PROGRAM Historic RCA Studio B • Duration: 2.5 hours This itinerary begins with a professionally guided tour of RCA Studio B. Students learn about the history of Nashville's recording industry and the progression of recording technology. Following the tour, students work with the Studio engineer in their own private recording session. Then it's off to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to complete the tour experience. Conclude your itinerary with an optional lunch or dinner at the world famous Wildhorse Saloon or Hard Rock Cafe, where your group will hear their newly recorded hit.

BOOK YOUR DAY OF MUSIC

@CountryMusicHOF • 800.852.6437 CountryMusicHallofFame.org/Visit/Group-Tours featured DESTINATION NASHVILLE Authentic, Accessible, Affordable, and Accommodating

LOUANN HENTON Known as the “Songwriting Capital of the Senior Tourism Sales Manager World” and the birthplace of America’s Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation longest running radio show, The Grand Ole Opry, Nashville’s connection to music is unequaled. The city’s worldwide repu- With shining accolades such as “Best tation as Music City can be found in more Places to Travel in 2018” by Travelocity than 180 live music venues and at iconic and “The World’s Best Cities 2018” by music attractions like the Country Music Best Cities, it’s no wonder why Nashville Hall of Fame and Museum, the Ryman was named a 2018 “Top Ten Student Des- Auditorium and Historic RCA Studio B original. Students can also see where tination” by Teach & Travel, the official where groups can record in the footsteps some of the most famous thoroughbred publication of the Student & Youth Travel of Elvis. horses, including Seabiscuit and Secretar- Association (SYTA). iat, trace their bloodlines at Belle Meade Students can explore the lives of stu- Plantation. Music City is authentic, accessible, afford- dio musicians and learn how to make a able, and accommodating. Music of all record inside the Musicians Hall of Fame The new National Museum of African genres is created in Nashville – whether and Museum and Grammy Museum American Music is set to open in down- it’s country, pop, gospel, jazz, bluegrass, Gallery, or touch, see, feel, and photo- town Nashville in late 2019. Students can Americana, rock or blues, students can graph figures of their favorite musicians also visit the new Tennessee State Mu- experience diverse music 24/7/365. at Madame Tussauds Nashville. Groups seum, located just north of Bicentennial

often perform for thousands of guests on Capitol Mall State Park. the plaza of the Grand Ole Opry House or sit in on a live studio recording session with Imagine Recording. An unexpected experience awaits at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Enjoy a performance by the 13 time GRAMMY award-winning Nashville Symphony, one of the most recorded symphony orchestra’s in America.

RICH HISTORY Nashville’s rich and diverse history can be experienced through a variety of educational offerings. Students will journey THE MUSIC CITY through a docent-led tour at the home UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS From its very beginnings, Nashville grew of America’s seventh President, Andrew Although Nashville is famous for its from a foundation built on music, which Jackson’s Hermitage. The centerpiece of music, students will find plenty of oppor- has been the common thread connecting Centennial Park is Nashville’s Parthenon, tunities to explore the artistic, cultural, the life and soul of the city and its people. the only full-scale replica of the Athenian adventurous, and historical aspects of

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 37 featured DESTINATION

NASHVILLE The Wildhorse Saloon continued

the city. The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, ranked in the “Top 10 Zoos and Aquar- iums” by Charity Navigator (May 2018) gives students the chance to experience up-close encounters with clouded leop- ards and red pandas and even stand right next to a kangaroo. Students can also experience Tennessee’s largest outlet and value shopping destination at Opry Mills. Student adventurers can experience the Nashville skyline from a completely different perspective on a kayak- ing tour with River Queen Voyages. Just a few miles east of downtown is Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort & Treetop Adven- ture, offering both water adventure and PERFORMANCE thrilling ziplines. Students can also test OPPORTUNITIES Music City offers students the op- their skills and tackle the High Challenge portunity to perform for a built-in ziplining courses at Adventureworks. audience on many famous stages: Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER Belle Meade Plantation There is something about Nashville Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre that just makes people feel at home, Country Music Hall of Fame and like they belong. The culture here is like Museum nowhere else in the world. It’s a place General Jackson Showboat where people gather to feel a part of Grand Ole Opry something bigger. It’s not uncommon to The Johnny Cash Museum see total strangers act as if they are long Madame Tussauds lost friends, with music and memories at Nashville Shores Nashville Sounds the core of this bond: where one per- Nashville Symphony son comes to walk in the footsteps of a Nashville Visitor Information childhood idol and another comes to be Center the next big music star. It’s the people Nashville Zoo and their hospitality, the inspirational Opry Mills liveliness found around every corner, and Plaza Mariachi Music City the authentic and unpretentious nature Ryman Auditorium of those who call Nashville home that The Music of Nashville at Texas makes visitors fall in love with Nashville. Troubadour Theatre

38 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide Welcome to the city where music is written, recorded, and performed every single day. Known as Music City, Nashville offers live music, music history and hands-on opportunities for your young musicians. Creative attractions, foods and performance opportunities make Nashville a top student destination.

RESTAURANTS Dave & Busters Hard Rock Cafe Margaritaville Wildhorse Saloon

EXPLORE Country Music Hall of Fame General Jackson Showboat Cruise and Show Madame Tussauds Nashville Ghost Tours Nashville Zoo RCA Studio B

LEARN Carnton Plantation Tour Fontanel Mansion Tour Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour The Hermitage

PERFORM Country Music Hall of Fame Grand Ole Opry + many more!

The Hermitage

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 39 THE SECRETS OF SUCCESSFUL Travel Planning

ROBERT DRAPER, close prices, but what you get from your program and a culture of travel? B.M.E., M. ED. planner will make all the difference. Independence High School Choir Director/Fine Arts Step 4: Build your trip. Again, with your Department Chair Step 2: Pick a date and destination. travel partner, you’ll select the dates and Your school’s calendar will significantly locations of your trip along with many impact this choice. You have to factor in other details which include performance Trip planning can be overwhelming, espe- all of the activities your kids are involved and competition options, included meals cially if the culture of your program is not in, your school’s testing calendar, and and activities, to admission to various one where traveling has been frequent your principal’s expectations on when venues and events, hotel locations and or successful. There are a few import- and where you will go. Again, your district qualities, motorcoach options…I would ant questions to ask before embarking might have limits to where you may go be very cautious with a company that on this journey. First, you need to ask and what you may do…my favorite and does not allow you to customize to your yourself what is the purpose of the trip. Is best-attended trips have been ski trips, students’ needs. Sometimes the “cheap” it intended to be educational? Is it meant but my current district will not allow us to option is not the ideal for your program, to be a recruiting tool? Is it meant solely take students skiing. even when funds are tight. to be a reward for working hard the rest of the year? Is it meant to further your Step 3: Critical Analysis. What is your Step 5: Sell the experience. You need to professional reputation….bio fluff? Once goal for this trip? What will your students communicate, in detail, what this trip will your purpose is clear, ask yourself what gain? What will you gain? What cost can involve in both experiences and financial the realistic cost of the trip needs to be in be handled by your student body? How commitment. Often, your trip company order to have your students participate will you fundraise? How can you get will produce good handouts and pre- in great numbers. If most of your group students to go who may not otherwise sentations that you can share as part will struggle to pay $300, don’t plan a trip be able to afford the trip? For me, if a of their service. Be prepared to answer that costs $1,000. Finally, you’ll need to trip does not have significant educational every question a parent or student might ask yourself what you bring to the table value, we will not travel. Going to sing/ have, and know who to contact if you in terms of trip planning experience and play/dance in a hotel lobby and then don’t know the answer. Present not only expertise? If that answer is “nothing,” you spending three days at a theme park the trip itself, but a plan for making the need a trip planner! isn’t enough for me. I want them to have trip affordable through fundraising and/ a valuable musical experience, first and or sponsorship. Give your students and I have been taking groups on trips for foremost, which can be an adjudicated their parents many reasons to say “yes” twenty years now and have a few ideas contest, clinic with a world-class musi- and you will find that they will make it about what a trip can and should be, and cian, or performing in historically signif- happen. If you are beginning the travel how to make them special, successful, icant venues. After that, I look at what culture of your school, be prepared for rewarding, but most of all educational. I the educational value is in the activities small-ish numbers initially…you have to hope that readers will find these insights we are doing when we are not singing/ plan smart for the first trip both financial- useful. playing. Can they learn a lot from this ex- ly and musically. If you are successful in perience? New Orleans, Washington D.C., your musical ventures and the kids enjoy Step 1: What is your expertise? If it isn’t New York City, Chicago, San Antonio are themselves, then your next trip will be trip planning, you need a partner to en- so many destinations with rich history for better-attended. sure success! There are many very good students to experience. The final step of trip companies out there. Your district the analysis project is the financial piece: Step 6: Keep selling the trip, even after might limit who you can use, but if they how can I make this trip affordable to as the enrollment deadlines. You will need do not, don’t hesitate to get bids from as many of my students as possible? What is to continually encourage your traveling many as possible….the person and the the limit to what they can afford and how students to keep up their end and meet personal touch is more important than can I help them get there? Will this trip be payment deadlines. You will also keep the price. Most trips to and from the cost prohibitive and, in turn, exclusionary reminding those who are not attending same location will fall within a range of and counter-productive to building my about what they may be missing and they

40 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide travel RESOURCE

may join your next trip. Also, from time things happening on your trip. Take LOTS is forgotten and it will be one everyone to time a student will drop out. If you are of group photos and make sure that wants to have again. This is how you able to sell their spot to a student who those pictures get shared out to students build a traveling culture and how you get has been interested but missed the first and their families, as well as through your students excited to be a part of this deadline, you may be able to mitigate the social media. Make sure your students aspect of your program. It fosters com- first student’s losses while still maintain- engage in the activities and are paying mitment which will benefit every other ing your performance numbers by adding attention to their surroundings and are part of your program and will provide the second student. not buried in their phones missing out. lifelong memories of the experiences It’s a fine line…you want them to tweet shared, which they will take with them Step 7: Make sure you have clear and Instagram their great experiences, wherever they go in life. And perhaps, expectations of student and chaperone but not to miss them completely. will tip the scale towards traveling when behavior and that those expectations are their son or daughter asks if they can communicated clearly. Have a behavior Step 9: Debrief and plant the seeds for travel with their high school band, choir, contract for your students. Make sure next year. Make sure you talk about the orchestra, dance team, or theatre troupe. your chaperones realize this is not a vaca- trip after you return with everyone and tion for them. Be the leader of everyone make sure they are talking about it, too, Happy planning and safe travels, friends! going on the trip and they will follow you. with those who might not have attended. If you and your trip-planning partner Step 8: Travel! The best part. Seek out have done your job planning a mean- opportunities to highlight awesome ingful experience, it will not be one that

As a founding member of TSTOA, Director's Choice advocates and complies with best business practices of Texas owned tour operators.

• TSTOA promotes and provides travel experiences for Texas students and youth to enhance their social, cultural, and educational growth.

• TSTOA creates and maintains systems which proactively provide oversight of potential problems affecting youth travel in Texas.

• TSTOA offers educational resources to empower group travel leaders, educators, school administrators, and district business officers to properly evaluate travel vendors.

Ask how you can join today! TRAVEL SAFETY & ADVOCACY tstoa.org Nashville Student Choir Recording Session

Imagine Recordings will host and lead a once-in-a-lifetime 70 – 80 minute choir recording studio experience for up to 50 singers hosted by Grammy-winning producer Steve Fishell*

This music making edutainment experience includes: Studio tour Q & A with music producer and engineer Choir recording (as many songs as time permits) Two audio engineers Group photo Song masters delivered to group leader “Studio Access” attendee credential

Imagine Recordings at Sound Stage Studios is home to 500 #1 hits recorded by:

George Strait Carrie Underwood Kenny Chesney Miranda Lambert Blake Shelton Tim McGraw Thomas Rhett Kelsea Ballerini Alan Jackson

CONTACT [email protected] imaginerecordings.com

Coming Soon to TPAC GROUP SALES

Music City’s Hottest Variety Show FAVORITES INCLUDING: • Hello, Dolly! • Miss Saigon • Fiddler on the Roof

This unique Nashville experience promises musical performances, imaginative interviews, and unpredictable fun.

EVERY FIRST THURSDAY SEPT – JUNE

TPAC.ORG/Groups • 615-782-4060 • [email protected] 505 Deaderick Street, Nashville, TN 37243

Some shows contain mature content. Event, date, time, guest artists, and repertoire are subject to change. TPAC.org is the official online source for buying tickets to TPAC events. Mansion Tours • Exhibit • Film • Wagon Tours Garden Tours • Seasonal Ghost Tours VIP Tours • Shopping • Café

4580 Rachel’s Lane, Nashville, TN www.thehermitage.com

EGroupX PToursE HalfR PageIE HorizontalNC EAd.pdf T 1H 9/24/18E # 8:351 HAM ISTORIC SITE IN TENNESSEE

MUSIC CITY SOUNDS A WHOLE LOT DIFFERENT OUT HERE.

CMY

K explore the SOUTH MEMPHIS From a heritage rich in blues, soul and rock ’n’ roll to championing civil rights, Memphis is a place where students learn to respect the past and embrace the present. The city’s southern hospitality means you are always greeted with a warm smile and cuisine that will delight your taste buds and feed your soul.

RESTAURANTS Alfred’s on Beale B.B. King’s Blues Club Corky’s Ribs & BBQ Hard Rock Cafe Memphis Queen BBQ Dinner Cruise

LEARN Graceland & Elvis Experience Tours National Civil Rights Museum Rock ‘N’ Soul Museum Stax Museum of American Soul Music Sun Studio Tour Memphis Zoo

PERFORM Graceland Plaza + many more!

Tom Lee Park

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

44 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide HOW MOTORCOACH MONITORING travel RESOURCE and Enforcement Impacts Your Itinerary

No more fudging on motorcoach will improve motorcoach travel original itinerary. With an ELD, the driver can show driving hours. No more unsched- safety, it will limit travel flexibility the group leader how much time he has left to drive, uled stops. No more last minute for your student travel group. In alleviating an Hours of Service issue. Although this itinerary changes. Mandated the past, as unexpected delays lack of flexibility may be frustrating, drivers should Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) or situations arose, the driver not be viewed as uncooperative or unwilling. They on commercial coaches are might extend his or her hours to must abide by the ELD. impacting your travel itinerary. get the tour to its final destina- Here’s what you need to know: tion. With electronic logging, that The Hours of Service rules are designed to eliminate won’t be possible. the type of drowsiness that can lead to crashes. Let’s The Federal Motor Carrier Safety keep students safe. Think of it as the 15-10-8 Rule. Administration has mandated A positive benefit of using ELDs that motorcoach operators is that they help drivers stay and drivers use ELDs to track legal. Often passengers want the KNOW THESE RULES driver’s hours rather than use driver to add an additional place paper records. While this change or event that was not on their

Drivers cannot drive after being on duty for 1 hours.

Drivers can only drive up to 10 hours

Drivers must have consecutive hours oﬀ duty between shifts.

For more ways to keep your traveling students safe, visit: directorschoice.travel

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 45 explore the SOUTH BRANSON

Branson has a variety of LIVE music venues, amusement parks, and great home cookin’. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, this centrally located resort has grown and diversified to offer family friendly entertainment for all ages.

Silver Dollar City Water Ride Illusionist Rick Thomas

Silver Dollar City Clay Cooper’s Country Experience

46 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide explore the SOUTH

RESTAURANTS Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner + Show Fall Creek Steak & Catfish House Florentina’s Ristorante Italiano Golden Corral Lambert’s Cafe Mel’s Hard Luck Diner McFarlain’s Pickin Porch Grill Shorty Small’s Showboat Branson Belle Dinner Cruise The Great American Steak & Chicken House

EXPLORE Branson Ferris Wheel Branson Landing Showboat Branson Belle Clay Cooper’s Country Express Fritz’s Adventure Legends In Concert Silver Dollar City The Haygoods The SIX Show The Track Family Fun Park

LEARN Titanic Museum & Murder Mystery

PERFORM Branson On Stage Live Group Clinic at Clay Cooper’s Country Express + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 47 explore the SOUTH PIGEON FORGE + GATLINBURG

The Smoky Mountains of Tennessee are the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure and cozy hospitality. A visit to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg showcases American beauty and artistry. Hiking, waterfalls, local shops and adventure parks all await in this hidden mountain destination.

RESTAURANTS Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show Hard Rock Cafe Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud Joe’s Crab Shack Margaritaville

EXPLORE Sky Lift Vista Country Tonite Show Dollywood Hollywood Wax Museum Outdoor Gravity Park Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies The Island in Pigeon Forge Smoky Mountain Rafting The Track Family Recreation Center

LEARN Alcatraz East Crime Museum Titanic Museum

PERFORM Country Tonite Pre-Show Performance Putt Putt Golf + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

48 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide travel RESOURCE

BE A TEACHER, NOT A BILL COLLECTOR with Director’s Choice Individual Billing

“We’re going on a trip!” Congratulations! fundraisers and collected money from each person to make payments via credit You recognize the benefits of traveling students. The money kept coming in, and card toward their trip balance on a sched- with your group, and you’ve taken the my mentor’s warning kept playing in my uled basis, so you have the time to wade through endless options head. money collected and applied towards to create the itinerary that meets all the I had to create my own your group’s package without having to needs of your program. Mission accom- method of keeping track of be a middleman. IB also processes de- plished, right? Not so fast…. Now that posits and manages totals and deadlines all the dollars and cents, your trip is planned and approved, it’s for you. Payments and schedules are flex- but I signed up to be a time to collect money from every single ible for each trip, and we will assist you in teacher, not a bill collector! person traveling, making sure your pay- making the best choice for your individu- ments are met on time. This is not only So, as a former educator, I am really al program needs. a daunting project, but it’s also time-con- excited about the Director’s Choice Indi- suming and potentially risky. vidual Billing Program (IB). Rather than Our goal is for you to have complete having to collect all of that money, make control of your trip finances. IB’s reports Before becoming a travel consultant at deposits and payments, there is a better feature allows you to know how many Director’s Choice, I was a band director, way. people have committed financially or traveling with my groups on overnight who is falling behind on payments. IB trips. I’ll never forget the most sage Unlike other programs, Director’s Choice even enables you to send in a group pay- advice I received from a mentor, even IB was custom developed in-house by our ment that needs to be split and applied before I had my first teaching job: Technology Team based on your needs to multiple, individual accounts. “Don’t mishandle the money. It’s one of and wants. Our IB product is a compre- the easiest ways for a teacher to lose hensive billing, collections, and financial We believe IB is the future of financial their job.” reporting tool for traveling educators. management for traveling educators. If • Eliminates the need to handle cash, you are planning to travel with Director’s I was not prepared to manage money as reducing liability Choice, ask your travel consultant how a band director, yet it was a very real part • Offers secure, online credit card IB can be applied to your package. This of my job. If you’re like me, you proba- payment with encrypted numbers by continually evolving payment tool allows bly didn’t take classes on how to handle a third-party security provider who is us to give you the very best experience finances and successfully manage tens PCI DSS Level 1 certified and value for your money. of thousands of dollars, but that’s what I • Reporting features keep you up to was required to do. date on participant payments After all, #itsjustwhatwedo. • Allows you to apply group fundrais- I became a band director because of ing dollars to your trip my love for music, and I wanted to do • Keeps track of who is attending the for others what had been done for me: trip teach and inspire. Managing my budget • Gives you complete control of finances for school was daunting enough, but TRAVIS MCCULLOUGH I was even more terrified to deal with With IB, you set up your travel partici- Travel Consultant Director’s Choice money coming in and out of the pro- pants with individual accounts to pay for gram through individuals. Like you, I ran their trip. Our online system will allow

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 49 explore the SOUTH NEW ORLEANS Wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic French Quarter, visit the museums, restaurants and attractions that dot New Orleans. Enjoy all that is grand and fun about this Southern jewel.

RESTAURANTS Bistreaux at the Bank Creole Queen Dinner Cruise Hard Rock Cafe Parkway Bakery & Tavern Gordon Biersch Restaurant

EXPLORE Aquarium of the Americas Audubon IMAX and Zoo Cajun Encounters Swamp Tour French Quarter Mardi Gras World Jefferson Performing Arts Center

LEARN Destrehan Plantation French Quarter Tour Haunted History Tour Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra National World War II Museum Oak Alley Plantation Preservation Hall Private Concert

PERFORM Jefferson Performing Arts Center National World War II Museum Washington Artillery Park Woldenberg Park Performance Mardi Gras World + many more!

PERFORMANCE EVENTS View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

50 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide THESE Are The Tours You’ve Heard About!

THE #1 CHOICE FOR SCHOOL GROUPS & FAMILIES!

French Quarter Five In One Tour Ghost Tour Experience Private Tours Voodoo Tour Available Vampire Tour Cemetery Tour Garden District Garden District Ghost Tour Tour

THE #1 TOUR IN NEW ORLEANS…A MUST DO! -The Travel Channel

BOOK YOUR 504.861.2727 TOUR TODAY! www.HauntedHistoryTours.com

MAKE YOUR GROUP’S PERFORMANCE A HISTORIC EVENT!

The National WWII Museum is ranked by TripAdvisor as the #1 attraction in New Orleans, #3 museum in the United States, and #8 museum in the world. We invite your school band or choral group to have the unforgettable experience of performing on the Museum’s beautiful Founders Plaza. Call 877-813-3329 x 222 today to arrange your group visit!

#1 Attraction in New Orleans #3 Museum in the United States #8 Museum in the World

945 MAGAZINE STREET, NEW ORLEANS, LA 70130 877-813-3329 x 222 | NATIONALWW2MUSEUM.ORG/GROUPS

18-0469_WWII_DirectorsChoice_4.25x5.5_r2.indd 1 9/24/18 3:25 PM explore the WEST COLORADO Discover more than 50 exciting and unique attractions in Colorado Springs. Brimming with lakes and mountains, this is the pinnacle of outdoor experiences. Rejuvenate and inspire your students in SPRINGS this northwestern paradise.

RESTAURANTS Fargo’s Pizza M Lazy C Ranch Chuckwagon Dinner Mason Jar Phantom Canyon BBQ Buffet Rudy’s BBQ

EXPLORE Broadmoor Seven Falls Cave of the Winds Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Royal Gorge Bridge and Park Royal Gorge Route Railroad Manitou Springs Old Colorado City Springs Climbing Center

LEARN Colorado Springs Philharmonic Garden of the Gods U.S. Olympic Training Center U.S. Air Force Academy

PERFORM Royal Gorge Bridge and Park U.S. Air Force Academy + many more!

PERFORMANCE EVENTS Garden of the Gods

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

52 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide explore the WEST

Seattle not only harbors ships, it has been a harbor to talent and innovation for decades. Seattle has a noteworthy musical history, nuturing the early careers of Jazz, Rock and SEATTLE Grunge musicians. Explore like a local enjoying the Museum of History & Industry and munching on goodies from famous food trucks.

RESTAURANTS Buca di Beppo Hard Rock Cafe Ivar’s Acres of Clams

EXPLORE Bainbridge Island Seattle Waterfront Chihuly Garden and Glass ComedySportz Pier 57 Pike’s Place Market Seattle Art Museum Seattle Aquarium Seattle Great Wheel Seattle Harbor Tour Space Needle Whale Watching Cruise

LEARN Bainbridge Island Historical Museum Boeing Tour & Gallery Museum of Flight Museum of History and Industry Museum of Pop Culture Seattle Symphony

PERFORM Instrumental Clinic at University of Washington + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: PERFORMANCE EVENTS DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 53 Parades and Special Events are great educational opportunities for your band, choir, or orchestra. Many of these prestigious and sought-after events are by invitation only, so advance planning is key. Put our decades of travel and performance event expertise to work for you. Let us talk you through any concerns and help you design a custom itinerary that meets your group's needs, personality and goals.

presents the PREMIER PERFORMANCE

Boston, MA Chicago, IL Los Angeles, CA New York, NY Philadelphia, PA Pasadena, CA Seattle, WA Je Goldberg / ESTO

New York, NY Seattle, WA

Anaheim, CA, and Central Florida Indianapolis, IN

Chicago, IL London, England

877-328-2583 TRAVEL+ LEARN+ PERFORM www.directorschoice.travel NAVIGATING THE ROSE PARADE travel RESOURCE and Avoiding the Thorns

PAUL DAVIS THE APPLICATION There is a great deal for director(s) to do Paul joined the Director’s Choice According to the Tournament of Roses without dealing with travel details. An team as a special events expert Committee, bands are selected based upon experienced travel partner can set up a when Director’s Choice pur- a variety of criteria including musicianship, separate family and friends trip and deal chased Masterpiece Tours in 2018. In his 34 years of travel marching ability, uniqueness, entertain- with the community directly. The director experience, Paul has taken ment value and special interest. In addition, should never have to answer any questions more Texas bands to The Tournament of Roses bands with the ability to perform field show about the family trip. Your job is to march Parade than anyone in the student travel industry. maneuvers while marching forward are in the parade; ours is to make that possible encouraged to apply. for you.

The application process is pretty straight- forward, but there are things you can do to make yourself stand out. It’s essential to have recommendation letters from highly respected music professionals and to provide a good “story” that makes your program special. The Rose Parade, also known as the Tourna- ment of Roses Parade, is held in Pasadena, When you get ready to apply, contact me. California, each year on New Year’s Day. I’d be more than happy to share additional The parade includes flower-covered floats, observations I have gleaned from working NAVIGATING PARADE DETAILS marching bands, and equestrian units and with applying directors for years. The Tournament of Roses is an all-volunteer is followed by the Rose Bowl college football organization and a fine-tuned machine. game. They are not for profit and will not assist (or require) any travel arrangements. However, You can’t rush the prepping and planning there are various REQUIRED activities for for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity like this the band, the directors and even the drum for your band. You need time, talent, and majors that must be attended. These must some expert help. be set first and the rest of the itinerary built around them. I’ve had the privilege of taking more Texas bands to The Tournament of Roses Parade Furthermore, the buses are given man- than anyone in the student travel industry. datory routes and times for reporting to In my 34 years of experience, I’ve learned a THE TRAVEL the assembly area before the start of the few things about how to get there and what Once you received an invitation to the Rose parade. Your travel provider should have to do once you do get there to make the Parade, you only have 15 months until the the forethought and experience to manage most of this incredible opportunity. event. I say only 15 months because you major traffic issues as they build the day’s need every bit of that time to plan, prepare itinerary. THE EXPERIENCE and fundraise. If there is ever a trip that The Rose Parade requires a professional, experienced travel I have also learned through trial and error is “invitation only” partner, it’s this one. Surround yourself with where the best grandstand seating is and given to the aid during this time. Get your community located, what venues to use or avoid for very best. involved. You’ll need their financial support, New Year’s Eve, and other time-sensitive and they need the recognition you are activities. There is nothing bringing to your city and school. like turning the This is potentially the most significant and corner onto Col- You must start making travel arrangements crucial trip a band will ever take - the world orado Boulevard for The Tournament of Roses Parade trip is watching. There are too many unforeseen and seeing a million plus people lined up to immediately after receiving your invitation. items related to the parade itself to venture watch you perform. You are on the nation- The best buses, hotels and other venues fill into this on your own and blind. You don’t al stage when you march in this parade, up quickly, so having your travel planner on want to come home saying, “I wish I had and millions are watching your program. alert and eliminating extensive bidding pro- known about that before the trip.” It’s both and an honor and a significant cesses can help you get a jump on everyone challenge. else.

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 55 explore the WEST SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Take your own walk of fame in the glamorous City of Angels. From beaches to boardwalks to magical thrills, Southern California is a great play and perform destination.

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Universal Studios Hollywood Hollywood Walk of Fame Los Angeles Dodgers Stadium

56 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide explore the WEST

RESTAURANTS Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Buca di Beppo Farmer’s Market Hard Rock Cafe Joe’s Crab Shack Medieval Times Rusty’s Surf Ranch

EXPLORE Aquarium of the Pacific ComedySportz Disneyland® Resort Downtown LA Historic District Tour El Capitan Theatre Knott’s Berry Farm Los Angeles Dodgers Baseball Los Angeles Zoo Madame Tussauds Pacific Park Santa Monica Pier Skyspace LA Sony Pictures Studios Tour The Grove Universal Studios Hollywood

LEARN Getty Center and Villa Tours Griffith Observatory La Brea Tar Pits and Museum Los Angeles Philharmonic Natural History Museum of LA Petersen Automotive Museum Street Art Tour

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 57 PARALLEL TRIPS for Non-Chaperoning Parents

AMY LOCKE performance travel destination on their unique experience for parents while their Owner own terms. This eliminates the need students enjoy the group trip with their Envoyé Tour & Travel for you as a group leader to manage friends and you, as the group leader, non-chaperone travel requests. don’t need to worry about additional travel coordination outside the group.

Director’s Choice Parallel Trips are for family members who want to share in their student’s performance travel without being a chaperone or sponsor. Parallel Trips are great for parents who want to be in the same destination with their student, yet don’t want to be tied to the same itinerary and schedule as the student group.

Working closely with the group’s itinerary, Envoye Travel, a Director’s Choice Com- Envoye travel consultants will ensure par- pany, can custom create a Parallel Trip ents don’t miss any special performances that allows family members to enjoy the by their children. We will custom create a

travel & cruise SAN DIEGO explore the WEST Known for its beaches, parks and warm climate, San Diego is a thriving border city. Take advantage of year-round sunshine and moderate temperatures. Enjoy the outdoor parks, sites and surf. San Diego’s fascinating history spans from 16th century Spanish missions to pivotal, modern naval history.

USS Midway

RESTAURANTS Buca di Beppo Buster’s Beach House DJ Dinner Cruise Joe’s Crab Shack

EXPLORE Balboa Park Belmont Park Mission Bay Beach San Diego Padres Baseball San Diego Zoo SeaWorld

LEARN Reuben H Fleet Science Center & IMAX USS Midway Museum

PERFORM USS Midway + many more!

Casa de Prado in Balboa Park

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 59 explore the MIDWEST Bring your wind instruments to the Windy City! From Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate to the shores of Lake Michigan, your group can see a version of an American city unlike any other. A beautiful skyline, a unique art museum scene, and the welcoming attitude of the Midwest awaits CHICAGO your eager eyes.

The Field Museum of Natural History

Blue Man Group

Skydeck at Willis Tower

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Chicago Symphony Center

60 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide explore the MIDWEST

RESTAURANTS Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Cruises Bubba Gump’s Shrimp Co. Hard Rock Cafe Gino’s East of Chicago Giordano’s Margaritaville Medieval Times Portillo’s

EXPLORE 360 Chicago Observation Deck Blue Man Group Broadway in Chicago Chicago Cubs Baseball Lincoln Park Zoo Navy Pier Cloud Gate Six Flags Great America Skydeck Chicago The Magnificent Mile White Sox Baseball

LEARN Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum Chicago Symphony Field Museum of Natural History Gangster Tour Museum of Science and Industry The Art Institute of Chicago

PERFORM 360 Chicago Chicago Symphony Center Field Museum Navy Pier Navy Pier Six Flags Great America The Offstage Group Clinic + many more! View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 61 AUTHENTIC CHICAGO STYLE PIZZA BOOK YOUR TOUR GROUP WITH US TODAY! GROUPS OF 15- 300 WELCOME. 312-266-5421 GINOSEAST.COM THE MIDWEST CLINIC travel RESOURCE Music Education as a Cultural Value: The Middle School Orchestra Experience

It was an over- and expectations can differ by time and place being supported by an audience who couldn’t whelming and and for us, traveling with a large instrumental wait to hear us and share in our success. thrilling feeling to group, it was important for everyone to know receive the news ahead of time what to expect on travel days We were thrilled to interact with composers, that the Hill Coun- and for us to collectively commit to following professors, music directors and educators try Middle School the plan. Seeking input from others can give from so many backgrounds and specialties. Symphony Or- you a fresh perspective or better yet, a more For the student performers attending The chestra had been efficient way of handling something. Some- Midwest Clinic, it is not just a big concert and accepted as a per- times all you need is assurance that everything fun trip with friends, it is also an experience forming ensemble is going to be more than okay and that you are that will amplify their perception of music at the 71st Midwest Clinic International Band, doing a great job! education as a cultural value and how it is an Orchestra and Music Conference. I couldn’t important, valued and diversified profession. wait to share the news with the students and Taking middle school students on overnight, families and, in particular, my colleagues and out-of-state trips in our district is a big deal; The trip was an outstanding success and mentors who helped me achieve this monu- the opportunities simply don’t come around almost one year later, I continue to hear mental success for our full orchestra program. that often. Ice skating with 72 middle school- students talk about their Midwest experience Immediately, I thought about my own experi- ers and an evening witnessing the legendary as one of the most fun, exciting and thrilling ences of performing at Midwest with my high Chicago Symphony perform Beethoven’s Violin things they have ever been a part of. Students school orchestra, having been a team member Concerto and Shostakovich Symphony No. 5?! experienced in a very personal and individu- and community representative with Westlake We wouldn’t have missed it for the world! For alized way, the connection between putting in High School. And now the Hill Country Sym- several students, this was the first time they the hard work, dedication and commitment, phony Orchestra was going to become a con- had traveled without family and for a few, it and the resulting feeling that it was all worth tributing part of The Midwest Clinic’s incredible was the first time they had ever traveled on a it. Best of all, they got the opportunity to share history. I was completely in awe of the journey plane. You have this continuous oversight and these experiences with their friends and peers. that I had in front of me. It was going to take a access to directors, administration, group lead- tremendous amount of teamwork and count- ers and chaperones and yet at the same time, We are so lucky as music educators to teach a less hours of planning and preparation to pull the goal is to allow the students to explore and subject where the promise and demonstration it off, but I lucked out by having an incredible experience travel with their peers and all of of musicianship is a powerful motivator and team of students, staff, administration, travel the planning, responsibility, decision making, reward. Also, being able to be a part of some- professionals and friends that helped us with and most importantly, the compromise that thing bigger than yourself as an extension of nearly every aspect. comes with it. your own interest and passion in music, has its own empowering and benefits. Students Sooner than later though, the travel planning became more observant and appreciative of process is upon you. During the spring, we had how hard individuals were working and our time to draft our ideal ensemble and instru- community strengthened daily. As we neared mentation, connect with families, and set up performance day and certainly as the students email communication so that we were well look back, there is a collective recognition underway during the summer months. Plan- that every player mattered, that every person ning for travel with a large instrumental group Performance day was exhilarating and the made a difference, and also that Chicago is can be overwhelming, even for an experienced concert was a great success. We refined our one of the most exciting cities you can visit. and well-organized director. I leaned on sev- setup over the weeks as well as rehearsed on eral peers who were well seasoned at taking risers throughout the semester so we were big trips with ensembles and I would regularly ready for the stage. I think we were all a bit ask for advice on nearly everything related to nervous but also really ready to just go for it RACHEL HORVITZ student group travel. and to play the notes off of the page. At that Director, Hill Country Middle point, we had diligently developed our stamina School Symphony Orchestra For anyone planning a trip with their ensem- to get through our 45-minute concert, which ble, reach out to colleagues and see what has is no easy feat for middle school wind players. worked well for their groups and also what We were feeling the excitement not only of they might do differently. Travel guidelines finally being in this amazing city but also of

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 63 explore the MIDWEST ST. LOUIS

The “Gateway to the West” could be your student’s gateway to discovery, just like it was for Lewis and Clark. Paddle-wheel boats on the river with views of the Arch, and learn about the United States’ expansion west. Barbecue, blues, and baseball await!

LEARN Busch Stadium Tour City Museum National Blues Museum St. Louis Science Center and OMNIMAX St. Louis Symphony Gateway Arch National Park INDIANAPOLIS

Home of the Indy 500, your group’s Indianapolis trip will zoom by before you realize it! White River State Park and its amazing zoo will thrill you, while this easy-going Midwest city sweeps you off your feet.

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Indiana World War Memorial

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

64 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide PASIC GROUP MEMBERSHIPS INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA | NOVEMBER 14 -17 2018

PAS Group Members gain access to valuable information, resources, networking events, educational opportunities, and great discounts. Middle School, High School, and Non-Profit Organizations who serve students between 6th through 12th grade can benefit from a PAS Group Membership — all for the low price of $250 annually.

Each Group Membership comes with: MORE INFO: • one Percussive Notes subscription for the institution Visit the Join • one All Access membership for a director section of • (a $105 value) www.pas.org • unlimited Backstage student memberships

Some Highlights of Group Membership Benefits: • Access to PAS Board of Advisors, Chapter Officers, and Committee members through masterclass and mentorship opportunities • Competitions—Enter High School or Middle School PAS percussion ensemble competitions. Ensembles and Individuals can also enter PASIC Marching Festival and Concert Chamber competitions under a single Group Membership. • Scholarships—Students who are members through a Group Membership are eligible to apply for PAS and PASIC scholarships. • Publications, including the Percussive Notes journal and Rhythm! Scene digital magazine • Comprehensive Video Library from past PASIC clinics and concerts • Downloads of audio, video, and print pedagogy materials • FUNdamentals lessons for use by both educators and students • Discounts & Savings, including Student Discount prices for PASIC

The Percussive Arts Society (PAS) is the world’s largest drum and percussion organization, serving more than 5,000 members with 80 chapters across the United States and around the globe. The mission of PAS is to inspire, educate, and support percussionists and drummers throughout the world.

beyond the CLEF DO-IT-YOURSELF The Music Program Fixer Upper

about them. As a new director building a program, you often have to break down some trust barriers that may have happened from previous situations. It’s not always your fault, but it is always your problem.

David: That’s a good way to put it.

Joshua: It’s important to be aware of some of the baggage of the past as you build credibility and establish relationships in places where it may have Featuring Joshua Brown, Conducting do to start it off right? been lacking. This can really benefit and DMA, Men’s Chorus Conductor University build the momentum you need moving of North Texas Joshua Brown: Well, I have thought forward in a program. It takes time and through this because I’ve gone into a prioritizing to do that. So, maybe we don’t Hosted by David Biel couple of different high school programs do five performances in the spring, but as a head director and had to get things we do two the first year and then, later Beyond the Clef is more than a podcast for put back on track. I organized priorities in on, we build toward other things. music educators, it’s a resource for new different steps. The first step is to focus ideas and shared experiences both inside on building relationships. I think this is David: Right. So, in tempering and outside of the classroom. Our host really the most important step. Getting to expectations, you are intentional about David Biel sat down with UNT Men’s Chorus know people, and them getting to know your priorities. Conductor Joshua Brown at TCDA last me, helped me build my credibility as a summer for a chat about making changes leader of a program. Joshua: And I think part of it, too, is to to a struggling music program. In the find out what your kids are passionate following podcast excerpt, Joshua explains David: And that’s such a common about. If you know what they care about, why building relationships is foundational theme we’ve had over all the interviews then you can use that to help motivate for rebuilding a program. I’ve done so far. It seems like building them. That’s another reason to take the relationships is the cornerstone of what time to really get to know them. One of David Biel: Let’s say this is the choir we do in music education. the other great bits of wisdom that was version of HGTV. I’m going into a program given to me right as I started at Coppell, that has had some issues. The group is Joshua: The kids obviously don’t want was to pick “your five things in your first struggling musically and needs help with to perform for someone they don’t care year.” A mentor told me not to try and recruitment and retainment. What can I about or who they feel doesn’t care change everything that’s wrong, but to

66 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide choose just five priorities. and urgent. Without proper reflection, I’d in the midst of effectively managing find myself just making sort of arbitrary change in your music program? David: That’s really hard when you have little changes or reactive decisions lots of new ideas and procedures that that sometimes slowed down things. I Joshua: You are right; no matter where you know will make a difference, but I can also advise building systems into your you are with your program, you have to see how too much change too soon can program that allow you to eliminate take time to take care of yourself. There be counterproductive. So, how do you busyness, giving you the time you need were tons of times when it seemed work choose those five things to change? to reflect. never stopped. You’ve got to purposely put in vacation time and purposely give Joshua: I make a list of all the things David: Can you give us some examples yourself time to recharge because your I want to change over time, that I feel of creating systems to eliminate the kids deserve the best version of you in are major priorities. Then I rank them busyness? the classroom and outside the classroom. to determine how to get the most bang for the buck if I make this change. When Joshua: We created a Google form for Watch or listen to the rest for this I was at Coppell, the big first change I students to communicate an absence conversation at www.beyondtheclef.com made was a change in the schedule. It or a conflict. I used to allow to the kids may not sound like much, but this was a to come up in the passing period and Joshua Brown is in his huge change! I had to build confidence verbally communicate these schedules second year of doctoral in the parents and the administrators changes, but, of course, 30 seconds studies at the University of North Texas and serves as before I could move ahead. Because later I forgot and my mind was occupied the Director of UNT Men’s I took the time and invested in all of with the next class I was teaching or the Chorus. that communication and planning, I walkthrough by my administrators. It’s actually paved the way to make other impossible to remember requests and David Biel is the Director of changes more quickly. So, an effective comments from kids in passing. I was Bands at Heritage Middle communication plan is key to any change. going crazy trying to manage that. School in Lubbock, TX. David By effective, I mean taking the time to is in his 9th year of teaching and his fifth as the Director explain why this is going to be in the best So, when I put that “self-serve” system in of Bands. He brings his interest of the kids. place that allowed students to share their teaching experience and requests in writing with a timestamp, insights to hosting and seeking new, inspiring David: So, what’s the third step in making I could sit down at one time and deal guests for Beyond the Clef. changes to a music program? with those conflicts. So systems like that allowed me to focus on the bigger picture Joshua: Take time to reflect on items, which I think is so important. leadership. I remember being so busy as a teacher that is was easy to let the David: No doubt being a head director is busyness crowd out what is important demanding. How do you care for yourself

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 67 explore the east COAST

One of the most historically rich cities in the United States, Boston is a time-traveling BOSTON adventure! Walk through history in Boston’s impressive period-specific museums, or dazzle your students with art from across the centuries.

RESTAURANTS Faneuil Hall Restaurants Fire and Ice Grill Hard Rock Cafe Legal Sea Foods Maggiano’s Little Italy Plimoth Plantation Spirit of Boston Dinner Cruise

EXPLORE Blue Man Group Boston Red Sox Baseball Faneuil Hall Historic Boston Sightseeing Cruise Boston Tea Party Ship John F. Kennedy Presidential Library New England Aquarium Plimoth Plantation & Mayflower II Shear Madness at Charles Playhouse

LEARN Boston Duck Tour Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Edward M. Kennedy Institute Fenway Park Tour Freedom Trail Guided Tour Ghosts & Gravestones Tour Harvard Natural History Museum Liberty Ride Step-On Guide Tour MIT Museum Museum of Fine Arts Boston Museum of Science Salem Witch Museum USS Constitution Museum

PERFORM Boston Red Sox Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum Symphony Hall The Offstage Group + many more!

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

68 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide DESTINATION LEADERSHIP: travel RESOURCE Add a Leadership Component to Your Itinerary

people can change the course of history.” - Sonia Jeremy: Well, the initial idea is, what can we Johnson do when they’re in destinations? That’s where the idea of Destination Leadership came from. Students involved in extracurricular activities They’re on a trip and don’t want to travel with can change how this world functions, and how instruments, but still need an educational we communicate with one another, how we component that has value and can help the lead one another, how we problem solve with students. Destination Leadership can be that each other. So, that’s the overarching theme educational component. This past July at Texas Bandmasters Associa- for what we’re trying to do. tion in San Antonio, I caught up with former Marcie: So you will music educator turned leadership guru, Jere- Marcie: Our vision at Director’s Choice is tailor a curriculum my Spicer. Jeremy is the owner of SASi – The similar. As former music educators, we design that meets the Leadership People, LLC., a student leadership travel and performance experiences we hope director’s needs for consulting firm focusing on the empowerment will be lasting for students. That they will be his or her students of young leaders. positively changed for the good. and fits in with the travel itinerary we Below is an edited excerpt of my conversation Jeremy: It can be couched in what students do are developing for with Jeremy from the TBA exhibit floor. Check in a marching band. It can be couched in how them? it out and learn how SASI’s leadership philos- the orchestra rehearses. It can be any number ophy and workshops can be a great comple- of those situations, but it’s larger life skill sets Jeremy: Yes. Say you give me three hours bro- ment to your overnight itinerary for your band, they can take with them beyond a band hall, ken up over three days. I will come back with choir, orchestra or dance group. or an athletic field, or a student council, or a a curriculum that will be engaging for them, national honors society. that we can do before they’re out in the parks, or touring Chicago, or any number of places Marcie: Tell me about your workshops. I saw where you take people to travel. some interesting pictures of kids, blindfolded and following ropes. This isn’t just book work Marcie: Well, Jeremy, we think it’s a wonderful they’re doing. thing you’re doing. Students need fantastic mentors. They need leadership. They are the Jeremy: Like your travel, it’s experiential. future. I’m excited to see where Destination Everything has to be based in experiences. Is Leadership takes us! there book work? Yes, but when they come Marcie: We are talking with you today because to a workshop with SASI, we want it to look as Watch the full podcast interview here: we do a lot of work together with bands and little like school as possible. https://info.directorschoice.travel/blog/sasi_ choirs and orchestras. Is that primarily what leadership_travels SASI does? One of the main things we first talk about initially is that some of the best experiences Jeremy: Basically, the focus is on student you’ll have in your life will occur outside of organizations, student extracurricular organi- your comfort zone. We challenge their previ- JEREMY SPICER zations, where a need for student leadership ous thoughts of what their comfort zones are. Director exists. They need to know that through calculated SASi The Leadership People risk, challenging their previous thoughts, and Marcie: How does leadership training impact thinking outside their comfort zone is where these students? they really grow.

MARCIE TRUBY Jeremy: The vision of the organization is a Marcie: Let’s talk about Destination Leader- Director of Operations quote that I live by: “We must remember that ship with Director’s Choice. How would a SASI Director’s Choice one determined person can make a significant program look for traveling groups? difference and that a small group of determined

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 69 explore the east COAST WASHINGTON D.C.

Show your students the home of our democracy, the nation’s capital. Experience the story of our history with tours, museums, great performance venues, and green parks.

Smithsonian Natural History Museum

Washington Monument The White House

70 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide RESTAURANTS Buca di Beppo Carmine’s Fuel Pizza & Wings Hard Rock Cafe Spirit of Washington Dinner Cruise Theismann’s Restaurant

EXPLORE Annapolis Harbor & US Naval Academy Cruise Night Tour of Washington Madame Tussauds Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens Potomac Riverboat Cruise Shear Madness at Kennedy Center Six Flags America The Capital Wheel and The Carousel at National Harbor

LEARN Marine Corp War Memorial Arlington National Cemetery Tour Civil War Tour of Annapolis Ghost Tour of Old Alexandria International Spy Museum John F. Kennedy Center Tour National Museum of the Marine Corps. Newseum National Symphony Orchestra Smithsonian Museums

PERFORM Hylton Performing Arts Center National Park Public Performance Washington National Cathedral + many more!

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Lincoln Memorial

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 71 travel RESOURCE

EUROPEAN PERFORMING ARTS TOURS

ADELE YOUNGS Joint concerts are extremely popular with Owner groups and an excellent way to enhance Live Travel and Tours the performance experience.

FESTIVALS AND PARADES We are all performers ourselves and find Festivals are a great way to meet and it an honor to arrange European tours for exchange musical and dance experiences In addition to working with other choirs, orchestras, wind bands, marching with other similar groups from around festivals, we are proud to run our bands, dance and drama groups with the world. We work closely with over own music festival, which takes place Director’s Choice. Each performance is 30 festivals across Europe (as well as in London every July. Our festival is arranged with the specific requirements managing our own - see right) and can open to all types of performing groups of the group in mind, be it for a formal guide and assist with applications and and runs for four days, incorporating evening concert, an opportunity to other information. Parades, such as the masterclasses, adjudicated workshops, perform in a cathedral of outstanding St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, or tailored performance opportunities beauty or the chance to mix with the at Disneyland Paris, are an incredible and a massed performance on the locals and put on a joint evening event. experience for marching bands and final day. Here’s what we can provide on our dance groups, respectively. performing tours: London International Music Festival PUBLICITY offers young people and musicians: VENUES AND AUDIENCES The majority of performances need An international musical experi- We select the venues for each performing publicity, and we take care of all of this • ence of world-class quality at an group after an extensive review process for you. We design and publish flyers accessible price in order to make sure we take into and posters, coordinate social media A chance to experience London, account all their technical, musical and campaigns and regularly use print • one of the greatest cultural cities budgetary requirements. We regularly distribution companies, local media and in the world assist with arranging site inspection visits “what’s on” guides and apps to ensure Opportunities to interact with for music directors and group leaders great coverage for performances. • so that they can check on venues before other young people from all over the world in a supportive and the tour, and we work hard to ensure EQUIPMENT RENTAL non-competitive environment there are no last minute surprises on To avoid the cost of flying with large A number of events to develop performance day! instruments, we have an excellent • their musicality in a way that isn’t network of providers across Europe possible at home MUSIC CONTACTS AND JOINT from whom we hire a wide range of A connection with music from oth- CONCERTS instruments. We monitor the luggage and • er cultures and different styles Our range of contacts with established instrument loads and, where needed, A platform to develop their “world names in the music industry enables can provide luggage vans and instrument • education” us to organize workshops and other trucks to assist with transporting any activities, many with very prestigious and overflow. experienced musicians and conductors.

72 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide travel ABROAD

Italy is a country thriving with art, music, and substance. Your group will have the trip of a lifetime and performance opportunities like never before. See cities written about in ITALY history books and Shakespearean plays. Italy’s culture, cuisuine and history are sure to leave a powerful impression.

RESTAURANTS Local Cuisine Establishments

EXPLORE Basilica of St. Mark Bridge of Sighs Colosseum Tour Florence Walking Tour Padua Walking Tour Palatine Hill Tour Piombi Prison Colosseum Roman Forum Tour Sightseeing in Bologna St. Peter’s Basilica The Doge’s Palace Venice Historical District Tour

LEARN Uffizi Gallery Art Museum Vatican Museums

PERFORM Santo Maria dei Ricci Santo Stefano Grand Canal - Venice Santa Maria della Salute Church St. Paul’s Within the Walls + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 73 travel ABROAD UNITED KINGDOM

The grandeur of music is surely matched by the country of castles. Bring your students to see Coventry Castle and Winchester Cathedral in the land of rain and green grass. Take a walking tour of one of the largest cities in Europe, London. Enjoy a traditional tea or partake in a game of the other football.

RESTAURANTS Local Cuisine Establishments

EXPLORE Canterbury Cathedral London West End Theatre Buckingham Palace Oxford London Tower Bridge Salisbury Cathedral Stonehenge St. Paul’s Cathedral Warwick Castle Westminster Abbey Winchester Cathedral

LEARN Blenheim Palace House of Parliament Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tower of London

PERFORM Palace of Westminster Southwark Cathedral + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

74 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide travel ABROAD

The magic of the Emerald Isle will captivate the hearts and minds of your students. Perform at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a site of history and splendor. Enjoy the green landscapes, rugged IRELAND history, and mystic whimsy of this great country.

RESTAURANTS Abby Tavern Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet Local Cuisine Establishments Merry Ploughboy The Albert Pub

EXPLORE Bunratty Folk Park Dublin City Tour Grafton Street Irish Night Show Limerick Sightseeing Tour St. Patrick’s Cathedral Rock of Cashel Sightseeing in Galway St. Patrick’s Cathedral The Cliffs of Moher Trinity College & Book of Kells

LEARN Adare Village & Heritage Center Bodhran Drum Lesson Cobh Heritage Center

PERFORM St. Patrick’s Cathedral Cliffs of Moher St. Patrick’s Day Parade + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide | 75 travel ABROAD MONTREAL + QUEBEC

Explore the multicultural RESTAURANTS neighborhoods of bustling Montreal Badali Bar and Cucina and the French culture of Québec City. Local Cuisine Establishments This is a French immersion experience Medieval Times that no other North American destination can provide. Discover the heritage of the region’s Francophone EXPLORE roots and the magic of its sprawling Butchart Gardens natural landscape. Butterfly Conservatory Canada Place CNN Tower Observation Deck Granville Island Hockey Hall of Fame Quebec City Huron Dance and Song Show Montreal Tower Observatory Niagra Falls Old Montreal Guided Tour Old Quebec Guide Tour Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada Stanley Park St. Lawrence Market Traditional Huron-Wendat Tour Vancouver Aquarium

LEARN Casa Loma Royal Ontario Museum

PERFORM Henry Leck Joshua Pedde Montreal Choral Festival Notre Dame Basilica Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal University of Toronto Clinic + many more!

View sample itineraries online at: DIRECTORSCHOICE.TRAVEL

76 | Director’s Choice Travel + Performance Resource Guide AN ELECTRIFYING VIBE. JAW-DROPPING MEMORABILIA. AND A LEGENDARY MENU.

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