Travelbound - Music Brochure 2015

Music tours for schools and colleges

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ABTA No.V378X

ABTA No.V378X

ABTA No.V378X

Travelbound, Inspiration made easy “Nobody ever forgets their school trip... or the teacher who arranged it�

Travel inspires young minds We’ve spent over 26 years supporting teachers in their quest to inspire and motivate their students.

In this brochure you will find a small selection of the destinations and performance opportunities we can offer to help you give your students that most precious gift – memories that last a lifetime. We will also show you the main reasons for entrusting your trip to Travelbound: our expertise, our financial security, our operational excellence and our dedication to making your tour as easy as possible for you to plan, promote and enjoy. We share your passion for motivating your students and will work tirelessly to support you every step of the way.

Above all else, we want you to be inspired to start planning your next tour and to contact us so we can help you organise your next unforgettable school trip.

Ilaria Roche, Head of Music and Concert Tours

Contents 4-5 6-7 8-9 10 11 12-13 14 15 16-17 18-19 20-21 22-23 24-25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38-39 40-41 42-43

Our passion and expertise The support we provide Normandy & the Château du Molay Paris Disneyland Paris Belgium Valkenburg Noordwijk Lake Garda Costa Brava Tuscany Prague Austria Rhineland The Black Forest Berlin Budapest Venice The Itaian Riviera Sorrento Malta The French Alps Provence Croatia Krakow New York China Other inspiring destinations

Our passion & expertise

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Our passion

Our expertise

The travel experts

We’re passionate about music, its history and the living traditions which we support though our tours. The experience of touring will improve the cohesion of your ensemble, expose your students to new performance experiences and audiences and inspire them to a lifelong love of music. It will also provide them with the most memorable and valuable experiences in their school life and influence their personal development and maturity. That is why we specialise in crafting tours which are tailor-made to the specific needs of your group and enriched with educational and fun visits.

Our aim is to work in partnership with you to achieve the common goal of providing your students with a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ school trip.

With over 26 years of experience in educational travel, we provide high quality, competitively priced, safe tours that are inspiring and memorable. We choose our venues carefully to ensure the best possible music experience for all our groups. We advise on the best destination for your type of ensemble. We work with hotels and hostels which understand the specific requirements of a music group. We pride ourselves on being reliable, knowledgeable and passionate. Our Music Department is staffed by practising musicians and linguists who have travelled extensively.

Above all, we believe in inspirational, fun and safe tours and we want to help you have a successful tour!

Although being a small specialist company, we have the ultimate backing of TUI Travel PLC – the world’s largest leisure travel group operating in over 180 countries. No student should miss out on the opportunity to travel and explore and being part of TUI Travel enables us to support a student’s development in unison with their educational framework. It is especially reassuring to be part of TUI in the current climate and enables us to provide our tour leaders with the highest level of financial protection. As well as being a member of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO), all of our tours are fully bonded by ABTA and ATOL – giving you the reassurance that you deserve.

School Travel Forum

Learning Outside the Classroom

Responsible tourism

Travelbound is a full member of the STF, which is a group of leading school tour operators that promote good practice and safety in school travel. All STF Assured Members are audited annually by independent experts to evidence compliance to our Safety Management System which includes assessment of third party suppliers.

We are pleased to announce that Travelbound is an accredited Quality Badge holder. We have shown that we have pledged to engage in an ongoing process to sustain high-quality learning outside the classroom and have demonstrated that we meet the following quality indicators:

We recognise our responsibility as an educational tour operator and consider the environment, economy and culture of our destinations of paramount importance. We are committed to educating the youth of today and recommending their involvement in ethical and environmental programmes.

Since its inception, the STF has won widespread recognition and support of the ASCL, ATL, NAHT, NUT and Voice for the way it simplifies and provides essential reassurance for leaders looking to organise study trips. It is also welcomed by the Outdoor Education Advisors Panel (OEAP), the Learning Outside of the Classroom Council (LOtC) and the Department for Children and Families (DCSF).

1. W e assist our teachers to plan the learning experience effectively 2. W e provide accurate information about our tours 3. We provide activities, experience or resources which meet learner needs 4. We review your experience and act upon feedback 5. W e have a safety management process in place to manage risk effectively

If you book a music tour with Travelbound you can be assured that you are going to be travelling with the most sustainable and environmentally aware school travel company in the business!

‘School trips are an important part of learning and can be done in a sustainable way. By supporting businesses that offer responsible travel, schools are promoting the Eco-Schools’ ethos whilst supporting the sustainable sector.’

Mr. Suter, Keep Britain Tidy, Eco-Schools Programme Manager

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The support we provide

Book with ease • Make an enquiry Contact our friendly and knowledgeable team on 01273 265290 so we can discuss your tour requirements and recommend a suitable destination.

• Make a provisional booking Place a ‘no obligation’ provisional booking with us, which will be held for 3 weeks, enabling you to promote the trip to your group. We will be happy to provide any promotional material to ensure that you reach the desired party size.

• Confirm your booking Contact us within 3 weeks of making the provisional booking and send us the completed booking form, along with the relevant deposit amount. We will send you a confirmation pack and start booking all the components of your tour to ensure you receive the trip of the lifetime.

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Our support We are here to support you and to ensure that you have a successful and stress-free tour experience. We understand the importance of providing a tour that meets your budget and music requirements, which is why our aim is to work in partnership with you to provide the perfect trip that you and your students deserve.

Promoting your tour We can provide you with a sample letter you can use to launch the tour. We will happily offer your group promotional posters and personalised presentations to help promote the tour – to develop student interest and reach the required numbers. We also have payment cards you can use to keep track of your students’ payments. If required, we can even send you some funding ideas to help you with the tour budget.

Dedicated tour consultants From the moment you enquire about travelling with us, you will be assigned a dedicated consultant who will handle all the sales and pre-tour administration of your tour. Your consultant will be your main point of contact and will be on-hand to answer any queries you may have and to discuss your specific requirements and aspirations for the tour.

24 hour support Travelbound music groups have direct access to the TUI Travel Group 24hour duty office, staffed by a team of professionals to support our Party Leaders and overseas staff at all times. Resources include full emergency procedures and protocol, access to senior management and other independent experts along with the most up-to-date information and computer links around the clock. Rest assured that we provide 24hour support.

Our publicity material We ensure we advertise extensively all your performances to achieve the best possible audience size. Whenever possible, your concert will be part of an established calendar of events and/or series of concerts. It will be promoted in local what’s on guides, local press and websites. We will produce eye-catching professional posters and send them to each venue. We can even provide your group with flyers for some extra last minute publicity prior to the start of your performance.

Help with risk assessments

Our venues

We are always on-hand to support you with every aspect of your tour. As music travel experts we can offer advice on how to complete your specific risk assessments and health and safety paperwork. We can also provide assistance with the completion of local authority approval forms or paperwork which may be required by your Local Authority. Visit www.travelbound. co.uk and find out more about demystifying risk assessments. We can help you arrange an inspection visit prior to the tour so you can inspect the accommodation and the performance venues we have arranged for you.

We understand the performances are the focus of your tour and we have an extensive network of venues in all our tour destinations to suit different touring ensembles. We will discuss your repertoire, your ensemble type, your expectations and your particular requirements as soon as you book to ensure we select the most appropriate venues for you. Whether you want to perform in an awe-inspiring Cathedral, a town bandstand, a supportive community centre or a concert hall, we are confident we have the perfect venue for you.

Our tour managers and concert assistants We want you to have the right level of support on tour at the right price for you. Depending on your requirements, we can offer the services of a full time tour manager or a bilingual concert assistant on all our tours. Or you may decide that this service is not needed by your group.

We will discuss this with you to ensure we include in our tour price exactly the support you need – no more, no less.

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Normandy

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“The choir worked really hard preparing for their performance in the Abbey at Mont St Michel and they sounded great on the day!”

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Why travel to Normandy with Travelbound?

We own and manage the Château du Molay exclusively for our groups. Set within 38 acres of beautiful private parkland, it boasts fantastic leisure facilities including meeting rooms, library, games room, lounge area, classroom and party leaders’ bar, a heated swimming pool (May-September), a brand new football / rugby pitch and an all-weather sports court for tennis, basketball and 5-a-side football. The Château residents are on hand to ensure student safety and to organise activities and educational programmes which you can take advantage of!

Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Arrive in the afternoon and relax by the pool. Enjoy a welcome meal at the Château’s French Night – snails, frogs’ legs and traditional cheeses galore!

Day 2: This morning, visit the moving Caen Memorial before going on to the pretty port-town of Honfleur.

Here, visit the Maison Satie and perform a concert in the Eglise Sainte Catherine.

Day 3: The story of the Norman conquest of England is told in the Bayeux Tapestry, which you can see as you visit the town. Also not to be missed is the wonderful cathedral of Bayeux and the pretty Church of St Patrice. In the afternoon, visit the D-Day museum in Arromanches before a performance in the seaside town of Courselles-sur-Mer. Day 4: A day visit to the spectacular town of Mont St Michel, completely surrounded by water at high tide.

It’s possible to sing in the abbey here, which may have acted as the inspiration for Debussy’s La Cathédrale Engloutie. Disco night at the Château.

Day 5: In the morning, why not enjoy a fun archery session at the Château before your departure?

Rehearsal tours The Château has a number of flexible spaces which can be used for rehearsals, from the lounge to the TV and disco rooms. For larger groups, the dining room is available during the day and sectional rehearsals can take place in the other spaces. So if you want to focus your students’ musicianship without the pressure of public performance, our Château is the perfect location.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire St Catherine, Honfleur The largest church in France to be constructed of wood, it unusually has two naves. Concerts by visiting choirs and orchestras are welcome all year round.

Abbaye aux Hommes, Caen Nine centuries old, the Abbaye aux Hommes is where William the Conqueror was buried before his tomb was desecrated and destroyed in the sixteenth century.

St Patrice, Bayeux Groups are welcome to participate in Mass and perform a short recital for the congregation.

Argentan The pretty historic town of Argentan welcomes groups to perform in St Germain, a church dating from around the seventeenth century. Close links with the Oxfordshire town of Abingdon make British choirs and orchestras especially welcome.

American Cemetery, Omaha Beach A poignant venue suitable for both choral and instrumental ensembles. The cemetery contains 9,387 graves of servicemen who died in the D-Day landings.

Juno Beach Centre & Arromanches Town Square Perfect venues for groups who wish to perform outdoors for the many visitors. A programme which draws on composers from the 40’s and 50’s is especially welcome.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 9

Paris

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Paris has always had a strong influence on the arts and composers such as Berlioz, Bizet and Debussy spent much of their lives in the city. Known as the “City of Lights”, Paris never ceases to intrigue. The grand monuments of the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower point the way down awe-inspiring boulevards.

With the quirky individualism of Montmartre and the hustle and bustle of Les Halles, Paris has the character and variety to keep you coming back again and again.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to Paris. See Paris at night from the Bateaux Mouches and discover why they call it the City of Lights!

Day 2: Sing in Notre Dame Cathedral. Visit the world-famous Louvre art gallery and ascend the Eiffel Tower.

Day 3: Visit the magnificent Château of Versailles. In the afternoon, perform a concert in the church of La Madeleine.

Day 4: Spend the morning exploring the Cité de la Musique.

Perform a lunchtime concert on the bandstand in the Jardin du Luxembourg followed by a backstage guided tour of the famous Opera Garnier.

Day 5: Last minute shopping along the Champs-Elysées before your journey home.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire La Madeleine This neoclassical building resembling a Roman Temple was intended as a monument to Napoleon’s Grande Armée.

Camille Saint-Saens and Gabriel Fauré have both been organists here. Music plays a central role in the church’s activities and visiting choirs and orchestras are warmly welcomed.

St Eustache Located in the thriving district of Les Halles, l’Eglise St Eustache is a splendid example of Gothic architecture.

The high vaults provide spine-tingling acoustics for a choral performance. The organ boasts 8,000 pipes! The church actively encourages the arts and regularly hosts professional concerts and contemporary visual art exhibitions.

Jardin du Luxembourg This famous Parisian park is nearly 440 years old, and has assumed a permanent place in French culture; it’s where Marius and Cosette met in Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables. The Bandstand is used for performances all year round.

Notre Dame de Paris The Cathedral really needs no introduciton. Choral performances are by audition only and can take the form of either an informal recital or Mass participation.

Champ de Mars The seventh arrondissement Champ de Mars is a cultivated park where concerts take place in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower in the busy summer months.

St Sulpice The second-largest church in Paris, St Sulpice is a truly inspiring concert location. Stratospheric vaults lend a magical quality to choral performances here. The church has an impressive organ, which was once played by Widor when he was organist here from 1870 – 1937. More recently, St Suplice featured in a fictionalised account in Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code”.

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music@travelbound.co.uk

01273 265 290

www.travelboundmusic.co.uk

Disneyland Paris

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Experience the magic of Disneyland Resort Paris.

Meet Mickey, Goofy and the gang and enjoy an actionpacked break in Europe’s most spectacular resort.

Groups will need to audition for this unique experience, but with an opportunity to perform on one of the fantastic Disney stages it’ll be well worth the work!

After your performance, let off some steam in the park enjoying the thrills and spills of the rides and watch performances by Disney professionals.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to Disneyland Paris. You might want to kick off with a meal at Planet Hollywood at the fun-packed Disney Village outside the park itself.

Day 2: Start your day in the Disneyland Paris Park with an earlymorning workshop. Let off some steam on the rides before an afternoon performance as part of the Magic Music Days programme. In the summer months, stay late and watch the spectacular firework display at the Magic Kingdom at night!

Day 3: As you head home, why not stop off at the pretty town of Arras en route? Here you can visit the Grande Place with its notable Flemish-style architecture.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Disneyland Paris The Disney Magic Music Days programme offers unforgettable performance opportunities to amateur groups, with the aim of giving participants a glimpse into Disney’s professional world of entertainment by offering them the unique, once in a lifetime experience of becoming a “Disney” performer for the day! Selection is by audition only. You will have to submit a recent recording of your ensemble, a brief presentation and a photo. Disney professionals will assess your application and notify us if you have been successful. Performances take place on one of the professional stages in the Disneyland Paris Park and are limited to 30 minutes in length. A lively programme is preferred.

© Disney

© Disney

© Disney

Vocal Workshops Preliminary warm up exercises will embrace posture, breath control, diction and voice production and secure a solid technical foundation for the rest of the workshop. This will be followed by stylistic analysis and interpretation of up to fourpart vocal material drawn from the Disney classics.

Musical Theatre Workshops (intermediate or advanced) The workshop will commence with a vocal warm-up followed by the study of a chosen song. A dance warm-up and choreographed combination will follow. Vocals and choreography will later be integrated into a simple staging to create a musical theatre ensemble.

Dance Workshops ( junior, intermediate or advanced) Depending on the group’s level of experience, students can learn a dance number choreographed to either one of Disney’s Classic songs or a simplified version of a choreographed dance number from one of the Disney shows. More advanced participants will do a mock Disney audition and will be given advice on audition technique.

© Disney

music@travelbound.co.uk

01273 265 290

www.travelboundmusic.co.uk

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Belgium

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© Stad Brugge

“Being able to perform on one of the professional stages at the Gent Festival was amazing. The band is still buzzing with excitement!”

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Why travel to Belgium with Travelbound?

Belgium has it all – beautiful towns, winding canals, tempting chocolate, magnificent art, glittering diamond factories, and of course is home to the Smurfs and Tintin! Discover the historic towns of Bruges, Ghent and Mechelen, the diamond factories of Antwerp and the Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels. Make sure you enjoy the superb leisure facilities of the coastal resorts of Ostende, De Panne, De Haan and Blankenberge. Venues are impressive and the audiences are hospitable, making Belgium a must for all touring groups.

Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to Belgium and check into your accommodation. You might want to have a rehearsal or begin exploring your resort on foot.

Day 2: Depart for Bruges for a tour of the city, including the famous Market Square and Belfry. Perform an afternoon concert in the Church of Our Lady before sampling some delicious Belgian chocolate! Enjoy a games’ night in the hostel or bowling nearby.

Day 3: In the morning head to the coast for a concert at Ostend bandstand, then spend some time relaxing by the beach and enjoying the facilities. In the afternoon, move on inland to Ypres, visit In Flanders Fields Museum and participate in the moving Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate.

Day 4: No trip to Belgium would be complete without a leisurely cruise on the canals, a brilliant way to round off your last morning before embarking upon the journey home.

© Jan Darthet

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Church of Our Lady, Bruges This centrally located church is a firm favourite with groups. A pleasant acoustic will gently enhance most repertoire, and both choirs and orchestras are welcome to perform. The regular afternoon concerts are well attended by audiences of both locals and tourists.

© Jan D’Hondt

Sint Salvatorskathedraal, Bruges More imposing than the Church of our Lady, this cathedral’s vast interior houses a collection of Flemish art and an impressive organ. As well as organ recitals, the church promotes professional and amateur concerts throughout the year. Groups are welcome to participate in worship as well as concerts.

Sint Baafskathedraal, Ghent With the crypt dating from the tenth century, this is one of our favourite venues in Ghent. Boasting a five-manual, 6,000 pipe organ, the building is not just a cathedral but a vibrant concert venue and exhibition centre in its own right, containing art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Bruges Market Square Bruges Market Square, or Markt, is home to some of Bruges’ most famous sights, including the iconic Belfry.

With plenty of hustle and bustle all year round, this is a firm favourite with all our groups!

© Jan D’Hondt

Ostend Bandstand This ornate bandstand is over 100 years old, and continues to provide a great venue for groups to this day! While you’re here, be sure to check out the great coastal attractions and the St Peter and Paul Church, likened by some to a smaller version of Cologne’s Dom. Sint-Romboutskathedraal, Mechelen This impressive and somewhat unusual cathedral, with a flat-topped tower, has a very welcoming congregation and invites orchestral and choral groups to participate in Mass or give a concert here. For groups with a lighter repertoire or who wish to perform outdoors, the town will gladly host a performance on the large market square adjacent to the cathedral.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 13

Valkenburg The picturesque town of Valkenburg is situated in the Limburg region of Southern Holland. Its position makes it ideal for groups who wish to perform in Holland’s neighbouring countries: take the 4-countrychallenge and ask us to arrange concerts in Holland, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg as part of your tour. Valkenburg is a thriving summer resort with superb leisure facilities for youth groups and is especially suited to ensembles who are able to perform outdoors.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to Valkenburg.

Day 2: Guided visit of Valkenburg Castle Ruins and caves in the morning. Enjoy the views from the Wilhelmina Tower and have fun with the summer tobogganing. Afternoon in Mosaqua waterpark. Evening concert on the bandstand in Valkenburg.

Day 3: Morning in Maastricht with river cruise on the Meuse and lunchtime concert on the Vrijthof Square. Afternoon at Drielandenpunt: have fun with the water tricks in the maze!

Day 4: Cross the border into Germany and explore the historic city of Aachen. Perform a concert on the Kurpark Terrassen.

Evening bowling in resort.

Day 5: Stop off in Bruges en route to Calais for some chocolate tasting!

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Valkenburg Bandstand Located in the central square of Valkenburg and surrounded by cafés, this covered bandstand attracts a warm welcoming audience.

Place d’Armes, Luxembourg Originally used as parade ground for the troops defending the city, the square is centrally located in the Old Town and lined by restaurants and cafés which make it very busy in the summer months. The bandstand is used for evening performances which are very popular with both locals and tourists.

Aachen The city has been known since the Romans for its hot springs.

Nowadays the spa gardens regularly host informal concerts on the Kurpark Terrasses for the many tourists.

St Jan’s, Maastricht Named after St John the Baptist, the church was originally built as Baptistery for the St Servaas Chapter of Maastricht. Nowadays it is part of the Dutch Protestant Church.

Drielandenpunt Perform a concert at the border between The Netherlands, Germany and Belgium! This is also the highest point in the country: 220 meters high! Groups are invited to perform at this hugely popular tourist attraction which boasts one of the largest mazes in Europe featuring fun water tricks.

Vrijthof square, Maastricht Het Vrijthof has attracted people since the Middle Ages when pilgrims went to see the grave of St Servatius. It is a beautiful square in the centre of the Old Town lined with many restaurants and cafés. Summer concerts are arranged on the ornate bandstand and performers are guaranteed a large audience. Reward yourself with a slice of the Dutch fruit pie “Limburgse Vlaai” after your concert!

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music@travelbound.co.uk

01273 265 290

www.travelboundmusic.co.uk

Noordwijk Situated a mere 45-minute-drive from Amsterdam, Noordwijk is a lovely seaside resort with plenty of leisure facilities and a wide sandy beach. Its position makes it ideal for your exploration of the typical Dutch landscape. Enjoy a cheese-making demonstration, watch a pair of clogs being made, marvel at the fields of tulips at Keukenhof. Colourful and fun, this is a fantastic destination for a summer tour. The prestigious churches in Amsterdam are available to choirs of high standard all year round.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to Noordwijk and arrive in the afternoon.

Day 2: In the morning visit the model village of Zaanse Schans: explore the traditional windmills and enjoy a clog making demonstration. Informal performances can be arranged on the meadow at the entrance to the village. Head to Delft in the afternoon for a performance on the market square. Evening bowling in resort.

Day 3: Day trip to Amsterdam: visit Anne Frank’s House, explore the city with a canal cruise and make sure you visit one of the outstanding art museums. Perform in the English Church. Enjoy a typical pancake evening in resort.

Day 4: Return to the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Scheveningen We love this bustling seaside resort near The Hague which is the perfect location for a summer performance. Concerts take place in the afternoon right on the seafront or on the beach itself.

Broek in Waterland church The local Protestant church in this picturesque Dutch village north of Amsterdam invites groups of any type to perform and always provides a warm welcome. Make sure you take time to explore the village with its uniquely-shaped houses.

Bos Theater In a forest setting just 10 minutes outside Amsterdam, this professional open air theatre has a very popular summer programme of live theatre and music. Large audiences are guaranteed at every performance. Your group will need to pass an audition in order to perform here and a lively, entertaining programme is preferred.

Oude Kerk, Amsterdam This is one of Amsterdam’s oldest parish churches.

The organist and composer Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck frequently played here and is buried in the church grounds.

Beestenmarkt, Delft This large square in Deft takes its name from the livestock markets that used to take place here from 1595 to 1972. Nowadays it is busy with cafés and restaurants.

Performances take place at lunchtime in the summer months.

English Reformed Church, Amsterdam This beautiful XV century church is located in the heart of Amsterdam and actively promotes music with over a hundred concerts arranged every year. The outstanding acoustics are perfect for chamber choirs and orchestras.

This is a superb venue for high calibre groups.

music@travelbound.co.uk

01273 265 290

www.travelboundmusic.co.uk

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Lake Garda

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“Piazza Magugnano was perfect: spectacular views of the lake and the mountains in the background and a large audience. ” 16

Why travel to Lake Garda with Travelbound?

Lifetime memories...

Lake Garda is one of our most popular destinations, and it’s not hard to see why! With the largest lake in Italy, this region offers truly beautiful views, stunning scenery, great food and glorious sunshine, making this a wonderful destination. So make sure you book early and avoid disappointment! We recommend staying to the north or east of the lake in order to access the best concert venues, though the south also offers access to Sirmione and Verona, two very popular trips.

Day 2: Arrive at your hotel and relax by the pool. You may want to explore the local town, sample some delicious ice cream or simply people-watch on one of the lovely piazzas!

Day 1: Begin your journey to Lake Garda.

Day 3: Today, spend the morning in the city of Verona and see the famous Arena and Juliet’s Balcony. On your return, perform in Parco Sigurtà before an evening meal in a local restaurant and then a spectacular performance in Sirmione!

Day 4: Enjoy Lake Garda from the best vantage point – the water! Boat trips from Limone to Malcesine are very popular, and you can enjoy a cable-car ride to the top of Monte Baldo to get a completely different view of the lake. Enjoy an evening performance in Torri del Benaco overlooking the castle and the charming harbour.

Day 5: Spend the morning in the lovely town of Bardolino, and enjoy an afternoon performance on the main square in Garda. In the evening, experience an opera in Verona’s Arena.

Day 6: Morning either by the hotel pool or in town for that all-important last-minute souvenir shopping! In the afternoon your coach will depart for home.

Day 7: Arrive back in the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Sirmione Picture-postcard-perfect surroundings in this picturesque peninsula venue make for performances your group will never forget. The medieval town’s lively evening crowd will form an enthusiastic audience for your concert.

Garda Concerts organised through the local Music Bar “Il Cerchio Aperto” are a hot favourite with our groups and universally well-attended. Right in the centre of town, you’re sure to attract an excellent audience with a lively and entertaining programme.

Parco Pavese, Torbole This great bandstand is at the heart of Torbole, a former fishing village which is currently a sought-after destination for windsurfers. Many tourists will help make up your audience.

Parco Sigurtà, Valeggio This gorgeous botanical garden is a really popular tourist attraction and you will be assured of a spectacular natural backdrop for your concert.

Performances take place in the afternoons and we recommend a performance here following a day trip to Verona.

Levico Terme The town of Levico Terme, in the hills to the north-east of the lake, is a great destination for groups wishing to get an authentic flavour of the Italian countryside. The local town is very welcoming of visiting groups so make sure you have enough material for plenty of encores!

Casino Hall, Arco Just at the top end of the lake, Arco’s opulent nineteenth-century Casino Hall is a great indoor venue for concerts, with a good acoustic due to the traditional shoebox design and marble floor.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 17

Costa Brava

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“Singing at Montserrat on Palm Sunday was just incredible: the church was packed! We’d never performed to so many people before!”

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Why travel to the Costa Brava with Travelbound?

Lifetime memories...

With warm weather stretching from Spring well into Autumn, an attractive rugged coastline, tasty traditional cuisine, a fantastic artistic tradition and plenty of great venues, it’s easy to see why the Costa Brava is such a great destination for a Music Tour. Don’t miss the bustling city of Barcelona and a chance to visit the eccentric Sagrada Familia, the market at La Boqueria, the diversity of Las Ramblas and Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona.

Day 2: Arrive at your hotel and check in. Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing by your hotel pool or enjoying a rehearsal.

Day 1: Your journey to Spain begins.

Day 3: This morning depart for the wonderful monastery in Montserrat where you may perform a short recital before the midday Salve by L’Escolania boys’ choir. Then into Barcelona for some sightseeing.

Enjoy an evening concert in Barcelona Cathedral.

Day 4: Explore the beauty of the ‘rugged coast’ with a glass-bottomed boat tour of the Costa Brava. In the afternoon, cool down at Waterworld Park near Lloret de Mar. After dinner, head to the beachfront and set up in Tossa de Mar for your band concert – be prepared to have plenty of encores!

Day 5: Head north today for the unassuming city of Girona for a visit of the cathedral which dominates the old town. Head onwards to Figueres for the Dali Museum – if you think you’ve seen it all, wait till you see this! Round it all off with a concert on Plaça de l´Ajuntament before heading back to your hotel.

Day 6: If you’re based in Tossa de Mar, this morning is a great opportunity to explore the Old Town, or Vila Vella, before meeting your coach and beginning the journey home.

Day 7: Arrive back in the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Barcelona Cathedral Probably one of Spain’s most imposing Gothic buildings, this stunning cathedral regularly hosts choirs and visiting orchestras. A very resonant interior is to be expected as well as a very warm welcome.

Tossa de Mar As the scorching heat of the day becomes more manageable in the evening, we love this esplanade location close to plenty of restaurants and bars, where your audience is guaranteed. Concerts take place in the shadow of the illuminated hilltop castle and have been known to last to the wee small hours!

Esglesia de Sant Vicenç - Tossa de Mar We like this eighteenth-century church in Tossa, where many of our groups perform all year round. The neoclassical construction and relative simplicity of the interior make it an extremely good venue for concerts.

Montserrat Monastery A must do for many choirs is an a cappella sacred performance at this Benedictine Abbey. Located just outside of Barcelona on Montserrat Mountain, it really is a spectacular place to perform.

Poble Espanyol The Spanish Village was built for the 1929 International Exhibition on the Montjuic hill to show visitors a representative sample of Spanish architecture.

This popular tourist attraction is a great outdoor venue, with a number of spaces for late afternoon performances.

Girona Cathedral With an imposing acoustic given the building’s size – it’s the second widest nave in the world after St Peter’s in Rome – singing here is an unforgettable experience.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 19

Tuscany

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“The girls really enjoyed the tour to Tuscany. They also mentioned that singing in Pisa Cathedral will remain as a lifetime memory.”

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Why travel to Tuscany with Travelbound?

Lifetime memories...

One of our favourite regions of Italy, Tuscany really does have it all: beautiful cities home to some of the greatest art in human history, picturesque landscapes, awe-inspiring architecture and mouth-watering food. Choirs will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a spectacular venue to sing in and nothing beats a typical medieval piazza as backdrop for a band concert. You will be based in Montecatini, a lovely spa town right in the heart of the Tuscan countryside between Florence and Pisa.

Day 2: Arrive at your hotel. Spend the afternoon rehearsing in the hotel or exploring the town and finding the best ice-cream parlour.

Day 1: Depart the UK and travel overnight to Italy.

Day 3: Spend a full day in Florence - visit the worldfamous Uffizi Gallery and have your photo taken with Michaelangelo’s David. Also not to be missed is the Palazzo Vecchio and the magnificent Duomo and Campanile. In the evening enjoy a performance in the intimate church of Santa Maria dei Ricci.

Day 4: Today see the iconic sights of Pisa, including the Leaning Tower, Baptistery and Duomo. In the afternoon, move on to the medieval walled town of Lucca. The town’s San Martino Cathedral hosts concerts and you will be made very welcome.

Day 5: Depart for the city of Siena and start your sightseeing tour from the central crescent-shaped Campo, where the famous Palio is run (and where Quantum of Solace’s opening scene was filmed).

After lunch, explore the medieval towered town of San Gimignano and perform a concert at Sant‘ Agostino.

Day 6: Ride the funicular to Montecatini Alto for spectacular views and delicious ice cream.

Some groups enjoy an informal sing in the charming Church of Santa Maria. Afternoon departure for the UK. Day 7: Arrive back in the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Santa Maria dei Ricci This lovely church holds regular concerts for both amateur and professional ensembles to finance the maintenance of the organ. This is a small, intimate venue right in the heart of Florence.

Sant’ Agostino This church’s simple exterior belies an interior elegance. We love afternoon concerts here, which are always popular and have the active support of the clergy. The acoustics make intricate repertoire very possible here. You can also perform just outside the church.

Sant’Ignazio di Loyola Without doubt our favourite venue in Pistoia, this XVII century church offers choirs two organs to choose from: the monumental Hermans organ from 1664 and the new 2008 Ghilardi organ. Pistoia is still nowadays one of the main centres for the manufacture of organs in Italy.

Santa Maria Assunta We like promoting concerts in the town of Montecatini Terme and the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta welcomes groups for concerts and Mass. The large interior has a resonant acoustic and is of a modernist design.

Terme Tettuccio This sought-after professional venue is one of the most famous and historical spa establishments in Montecatini, dating from the eighteenth century. Its spectacular colonnade is a fantastic backdrop for any type of concert.

Villa Guignini, Lucca Located in the city centre of Lucca this villa, originally built in 1413 for the Lord of Lucca, is now a national museum of art and history. Summer evening concerts in the gardens are popular.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 21

Prague

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“Our tour to Prague was just fantastic: great city, great venues, great audiences! The students are already asking where we’re going on tour next year!”

Why travel to Prague with Travelbound?

Lifetime memories...

Prague really is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, boasting a splendid old town and a picturesque grand castle. This city can truly call itself one of the jewels in Europe’s cultural crown. A love of music, art and performance is inherent in the Czech people and culture, resulting in choirs, bands and orchestras flocking from all over the world to perform here. Well attended concerts and enthusiastic audiences make this a regular destination in touring groups’ repertoire.

Day 2: Arrive Prague and check in to your hotel. Get straight into town and explore the castle district. Take in traditional food, music and dancing at Strahov Monastery in the evening.

Day 1: Depart the UK for Prague.

Day 3: A full day in Prague today. Begin with a wander over Charles Bridge and then visit the Czech Museum of Music. Perform at St Nicholas after lunch. Enjoy some free time around the Old Town Square for some shopping before attending a performance of Don Giovanni.

Day 4: Enjoy a day in Western Bohemia as you visit Karlovy Vary. Take the funicular for a great view of the town before your afternoon Colonnade Concert. Don’t miss the spouting geyser at the end of the spa hall!

Day 5: Head out to the old silver mining town of Kutna Hora, where you can see the macabre Sedlec Ossuary before going on to the Cathedral of St Barbara.

Return to Prague for your performance in SS Simon & Jude. See Prague by night from the River Vltava, while enjoying a buffet dinner: a very popular last night treat.

Day 6: Enjoy some last minute shopping or catch the hourly changing of the guard at Prague Castle. Depart in the afternoon.

Day 7: Arrive back in the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire St Nicholas, Prague The old favourite – this magnificent church on the Old Town Square welcomes choirs, orchestras and other ensembles to perform in the regular afternoon concert series. Audiences are always good and appreciative.

Old Town Square, Prague At weekends during the summer you can’t beat the atmosphere on the Old Town Square! Groups can entertain the locals and tourists in one of Europe’s most recognisable public spaces.

SS Simon & Jude, Prague The splendid interior of the building often hosts professional concerts and has an excellent acoustic.

A Petrov grand piano is available. The venue challenges groups to produce a high standard of music for the regular audiences.

Czech Museum of Music, Prague The museum allows performances in the striking atrium, a very flexible space that can accommodate a range of ensembles. Concerts tend towards the classical end of the repertoire and the height of the building means that the acoustics are not overwhelming.

Colonnade, Karlovy Vary This grand colonnade, in an equally grand spa town, hosts summer concerts nearly every day. An entertaining programme here will attract large crowds of tourists who will be perambulating whilst sipping the medicinal waters of the spa.

St Anna’s, Karlovy Vary We’re fond of this deconsecrated venue which has begun another life as a culture centre. Concerts are used as fundraisers for the restoration of the building and the current rather bare appearance provides a clean acoustic.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 23

Austria

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“Our performance at Schonbrunn Palace was unforgettable! The whole tour has made such an impression on all the pupils. ” 24

Why travel to Austria with Travelbound?

Lifetime memories...

Austria’s connection with music spans over centuries.

Mozart was born in Salzburg on 27 January 1756; Strauss, Haydn, Brahms, Beethoven and Mahler all lived and composed in Vienna. Nowadays, the Vienna Boys’ Choir and the Wiener Staatsoper continue this tradition of great music making. Both cities are steeped in history and great art with Vienna especially housing world-class museums and galleries. You can choose to visit one city or explore both on the same tour.

Day 2: Half day guided tour of the city to include the Cathedral, Mozart’s House, the lively Getreidegasse and the Hohensalzburg Fortress. In the afternoon perform in the Residenz zu Salzburg where the young Mozart conducted concerts for the arch-bishop and his guests.

Day 1: Fly to Salzburg.

Day 3: Follow in the footsteps of the von Trapp family with a full day “Sound of Music Tour” including the Mirabell Gardens where Maria and the children sing “Do – Re – Mi”; the Leopoldskron Castle used as the Trapp family home; Hellbrunn Castle; Noonberg Abbey where the Baron and Maria got married in 1927; St Gilgen and Lake Wolfgang and the wedding church in Mondsee where the film wedding took place.

Day 4: Depart for Vienna via Melk with guided tour and choral performance in the Benedictine Melk Abbey.

Upon arrival in Vienna, head for the Prater and enjoy a ride on the famous Ferris Wheel for a bird’s overview of the city.

Day 5: Morning choral performance in St Stephen’s Cathedral followed by a guided visit of the cathedral and catacombs. Depart for Esterházy Castle for your performance in the Haydn Hall; its incomparable acoustics and atmosphere inspired Joseph Haydn to compose his music.

Day 6: Visit the interactive museum Haus der Musik in the morning. Travel to Schönbrunn Castle for a visit of the Palace and a performance on the grand staircase or in the park. Enjoy an Opera at the Wiener Staatsoper.

Day 7: Fly to the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Salzburgerdom Perform in the very place where Mozart was baptised.

This ornate cathedral is steeped in history and offers a memorable performance opportunity for choirs.

Mirabell Gardens, Salzburg Informal performances for bands and orchestras can be arranged in the popular gardens of “Sound of Music” fame. A good audience of tourists is the norm here.

Melk Abbey The splendid Baroque Abbey at Melk towers 150 feet over the Danube and is an important spiritual centre for Lower Austria. Choirs can perform informal recitals for the numerous visitors.

St Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna The seat of the Archbishop of Vienna, the building features stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Choirs are allowed to participate in Morning Prayers or perform a lunchtime recital. Use of the organ is granted.

Schönbrunn Castle During the reign of Maria Theresa, Schönbrunn was the summer residence of the court. It was here that Mozart, aged 6, impressed the Empress and her guests with his prodigious talent. Choral and instrumental performances can be arranged on the grand staircase or in the park and gardens from Spring to Autumn.

St Gilgen Birthplace of Mozart’s mother, this delightful resort on the shore of the Wolfgangsee hosts a popular summer concert series on its bandstand.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 25

The Rhineland The course of the majestic River Rhine is the nucleus of this great tour. The region can accommodate all ensembles in a variety of different venues; from imposing cathedrals to intimate churches, from bandstands to town squares, there is something for everyone in this diverse region. Castles, towns and villages dot the landscape as you travel along the river.

This region of Germany is full of myths, legends, stories and adventure. What will you discover?

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to the Rhineland.

Day 2: Cruise down the Rhine past the Lorelei Rock to Rüdesheim. Perform a concert on the busy market square and visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musik Kabinett. Evening bowling.

Day 3: Travel north to Bonn to see Beethoven’s birth-house, where you can view the composer’s death mask as well as some of the instruments he played. On to Cologne for a visit of the chocolate museum and the city’s Cathedral. Transfer to All Saint’s Anglican Church for your evening concert.

Day 4: Visit Marksburg Castle, see the Torture Chamber and armoury. Afternoon in the spa town of Bad Ems with performance on the bandstand in the Kurpark.

Day 5: Depart for the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Cologne Dom This monumental Gothic masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remarkable survivor of the bombing of Cologne, permits visiting choirs a brief performance.

Marksburg Castle Concerts, particularly by bands with a lively repertoire, are very welcome in this 700-year-old castle. Why not enjoy the guided tour as well? Highlights include the Chapel Tower, Armoury, the Great Banqueting Hall and the Torture Chamber!

All Saints’ Church, Cologne This church serves the Anglican community in the Rhineland and has developed a reputation in recent years for a lively cultural and musical programme. It is a modern building with sympathetic acoustics, making it suitable for very varied performances. The local congregation is supportive, particularly of visiting British groups, and very hospitable to young musicians.

St Florinskirche A very popular venue with all types of groups, this church hosts regular concerts and audiences are always good; it has a recently-restored three-manual- organ which is available to choirs.

Kurhaus Bad Ems A fine example of the spa days of the town, the Kurhaus here offers a pillared and opulent setting for any concert.

Emperors, Kaisers and Kings have entertained and been entertained in the grand Marble Hall. More informal performances can be at the bandstand in the lush gardens right on the riverside.

Rüdesheim Square Everyone who’s been on a concert tour will probably perform on this very lovely square surrounded by traditional cafés and wine shops. Audiences are appreciative and encouraging. Take advantage of your time in Rüdesheim to enjoy a visit to the eccentric Siegfried’s Mechanical Musik Kabinett!

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The Black Forest There are few areas of Germany more beautiful than the wooded mountain range of the Black Forest. With a very regional identity, you can get a real feel for traditional German culture in this region. The Black Forest boasts such idiosyncratic attractions as the world’s largest cuckoo clock and the local indulgence of Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, or Black Forest Gateau.

There’s also a chance to experience the city of Freiburg, the French city of Strasbourg, and the sophisticated spa town of Baden Baden!

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to the Black Forest.

Day 2: Enjoy a guided tour of the world’s largest cuckoo clock near Schonach en route to the Triberg Waterfalls, one of the highest in Germany. Afternoon performance on the lakeside bandstand in Titisee.

Day 3: Morning exploration of the ancient University city of Freiburg to include a tour of the magnificent Cathedral. Take the longest cable car in Germany to the top of Schauinsland (4213 ft) for superb views of the region.

Day 4: Visit the Black Forest Open Air Museum with typical farmhouses, costumes and handicrafts. Continue to Baden Baden for your performance on the Bandstand.

Day 5: Return to the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Baden Baden Bandstand This spa town is one of the prettiest in Germany.

Well known for its natural springs and old casino, it is well worth exploring after your performance on the Konzertmuschel (which is even used by the Baden-Baden Philharmonic!). Check out the Brahms House Museum too.

Lake Titisee Bandstand Play on the shores of the largest natural lake in the Black Forest .The covered Bandstand is located right on the lakeside and performances are widely advertised by the local tourist office ensuring a very large audience.

Freiburg Choirs of a high standard can sing at Mass in the City’s Cathedral. For groups wishing to perform outdoors, the Stadtgarten is a popular location in the centre of the city.

Jardin de deux rives, Strasbourg These gardens straddle the Rhine (and the French-German border) between Strasbourg and Kehl and are linked by the Pont de l’Europe, symbol of the friendship between the two countries. A thriving programme of cultural events including outdoor concerts is arranged in the summer months.

Europapark Groups performing at this excellent theme park will receive free entry in return for entertaining other park-goers.

Unmissable! A lively programme is preferred.

Schönwald We love this picturesque village which hosts summer performances in the local park in the evenings with the Uhrmacher-Ketterer-Halle as an alternative in case of bad weather; this Concert Hall takes its name from Franz Ketterer, a local resident who invented the first cuckoo clocks on 1737.

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Berlin

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It seems almost unbelievable that just over twenty years ago Berlin was a divided city. Since reunification, Berlin has been at the centre of European news, culture and business. The old iconic symbols of the Brandenburg Gate, the Wall, the Reichstag and more are preserved or restored in a city which proves a mix of the ancient and modern. With a youthful, creative population and a booming artistic, musical and theatrical scene, this is one destination you just don’t want to miss.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to Berlin.

Day 2: Ascend the TV Tower at Alexanderplatz for a bird’s eye view of the city.

Day 3: Visit Checkpoint Charlie Museum and Topography of Terror. Walk along Unter den Linden to the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag. Evening performance in St George’s Anglican Church.

Day 4: See the Wall at East Side Gallery. Enjoy a river cruise on the Spree. Peformance at the Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche.

Day 5: Visit the Story of Berlin exhibition and nuclear bunker.

See the Musical Instrument Museum with over 2,200 musical instruments. Sing at Mass in the Berliner Dom. Day 6: Shopping on Kurfürstendamm before your afternoon departure.

Day 7: Arrive UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche The original church was badly bombed in 1943; only the damaged spire remains and is nowadways a Memorial Hall. The new church is an octagonal shaped building of concrete, steel and glass. Inspired by Chartres Cathedral, its walls are made of concrete honeycombs with 21,292 stained glass inlays of predominantly blue colour. Performances are used to help finance the maintenance of the 5,000 pipe organ.

St George’s Anglican Church Built in 1950 near the Olympic Stadium, it was originally a Garrison Church for the British Military. The congregation is a mixture of mainly British, American and German people who actively support the church’s concert series.

Marienkirche This medieval church on Alexanderplatz is well known for its fresco depicting the Dance of Death which dates from 1485.

Choral performances and organ recitals are regularly arranged.

Berliner Dom Music is an integral part of the Cathedral life. In addition to the organ recitals on the large Sauer organ and the performances of the two Cathedral choirs and the Cathedral Brass Band, visiting groups are also invited to sing at Mass or give concerts here. The awe-inspiring architecture and the beautiful acoustics make a performance here truly unforgettable.

Sanssouci Palace, Postdam The palace was the summer residence of Frederick the Great and is considered the major work of Rococo architecture in Germany. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens which attract thousands of visitors daily. Orchestral performances are arranged in the park in the summer.

Teehaus, Tiergarten For groups wishing to perform outside, we recommend this popular summer concert series in the Tiergarten park.

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Budapest

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The Hungarian capital is peppered with grand monuments, open squares and impressive architecture. The city has an impressive music tradition: Liszt, Kodaly and Bartok lived and composed here. Some of Hungary’s other undiscovered gems like Esztergom, Pecs, Sopron and Kesckemet are great both to visit and to perform in.

Make sure to include Szentendre on the Danube Bend, where you can view local arts and crafts being made, and purchase a souvenir!

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Fly to Budapest Day 2: Morning guided tour of the Castle District on Buda Hill, St Matthias Cathedral, the Chain Bridge across the Danube and the majestic Parliament Building. This evening, perform in the Church of the Holy Spirit in Budapest.

Day 3: Tour the Danube Bend area, taking in picturesque Szentendre, the thirteenth-century citadel of Visegrad with its ruined castle and the town of Vac for your evening concert in the imposing Cathedral.

Day 4: Full day at Lake Balaton with boat trip on the lake and the chance to experience a thermal pool. Concert on the lakeside.

Day 5: Fly back to the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire St Matthias Church With its distinctive tiled roof, the church is one of the most recognisable sights in the city. Liszt’s Hungarian Coronation Mass was first performed here in 1867. Choirs of a high standard can perform at Mass.

Fishermen’s Bastion On the Buda side of the Danube, the Fishermen’s Bastion is located on the ramparts of the Castle District overlooking the Parliament Building and the river. Concerts here are a popular summer attraction and are a great opportunity to get a dramatic tour photograph for the group!

Holy Spirit Church This quirky church has a stunning interior and a very hospitable local audience.

Szentendre Market Square This charming town was once a centre for visual art, apparently because of the light in the town. A firm favourite on any ‘Danube Bend’ itinerary, the town’s central square regularly hosts visiting bands and is popular with tourists. The local parish church welcomes choirs for performances.

Várszínpad, Esztergom This open-air summer venue in the shadow of the Basilica hosts professional and amateur performances. The space is surrounded on three sides and has raked audience seating allowing for good acoustic projection; this venue also has a wet-weather alternative in the restored Knight’s Hall in the nearby historic fortifications.

St Stephen’s Basilica, Esztergom Once the capital of Hungary, Esztergom is home to this striking Basilica. The tallest building in Hungary, this is a truly impressive venue to perform in, with a huge dome and reverberation that is truly spine-tingling. Service participations and concerts are both welcome, and singing here is a rare pleasure.

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Venice

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A city that has captured the world’s imagination for centuries is now in real danger of disappearing beneath the lagoon, the defining aspect of the city now threatening its existence. Venice has drawn visitors for centuries, who have come to marvel at the Basilica San Marco, the Grand Canal and St Mark’s Square. This spell-binding city has winding streets and bridges aplenty, where every corner turned is a new discovery.

Don’t wait; go before it’s too late…

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Flight to Venice.

Day 2: Take the Number 1 vaporetto (the local waterbus) for spectacular views of the city palaces from the Grand Canal.

Don’t miss St Mark’s Square with the famous Basilica and Campanile. Visit the Doge’s Palace and walk under the Bridge of Sighs. Enjoy a guided tour of the historic Theatre La Fenice.

Sing at Mass in St Mark’s.

Day 3: Morning “Three Island Boat Trip” to Murano, Burano and Torcello to find out about traditional crafts such as glass-blowing and embroidery. Afternoon performance in the Church of San Giovanni in Bragora. Evening show of “Venezia” (performed in English).

Day 4: Fly home.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire St Mark’s Basilica, Venice A performance at Mass at St Mark’s Basilica is the highlight of many groups’ visits to Venice. Repertoire is strictly sacred for this once in a lifetime experience.

St George’s Anglican Church Situated close to the Accademia, St George’s actively promotes concerts for the English speaking community of local residents and visitors. Performances are for both choirs and instrumental ensembles.

Church of San Lio This surprisingly lovely church is tucked away by the Rialto Bridge. Allegedly the painter Canaletto was baptised and buried here. Choral performances are usually arranged in the early evening.

Basilica of St Anthony, Padua This sanctuary is the largest church in Padua. As the resting place of St Anthony it is one of the most visited churches in Italy welcoming hundreds of pilgrims each day.

Choirs are invited to sing at Mass in this incredible place of faith.

Church of San Giovanni in Bragora We love this church where Antonio Vivaldi was baptised in 1641. The local priest is very welcoming and he is known to give performing groups a copy of the baptism certificate.

The afternoon concerts are well supported by the local congregation.

Lido di Jesolo Groups travelling in the summer have the option of staying in this popular seaside resort located a short ferry ride from Venice. A busy calendar of events is arranged on the resort’s many “piazzas” and groups with a lively and entertaining repertoire are guaranteed a large audience.

Concerts are held at 9pm when both locals and tourists go out to “catch some air”.

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Italian Riviera Liguria, the Italian Riviera, sits to the north west of the country, it is bordered by France and close to the microstate of Monaco. A narrow strip of Italy sandwiched between the pebble-beach coast and the mountains, it is an area of picturesque villages, lovely beaches and good food. We like the western side and we base our groups near San Remo, a popular resort which hosts the annual Italian pop music contest. It’s a great place from which to discover Liguria.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to Italy.

Day 2: Free time in resort.

Day 3: Visit the caves at Toirano. Afternoon exploring the medieval village of Dolceacqua. Evening concert in Albenga.

Day 4: Cross the border into France and visit Monaco: see the Casino at Monte Carlo, the Prince’s Palace and the Changing of the Guard at 11:55am. Evening concert in Alassio.

Day 5: Full day in the waterpark Le Caravelle. Evening performance in Bordighera.

Day 6: Morning in resort with afternoon departure.

Day 7: Arrive UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Ospedaletti Perhaps our favourite venue in the region: a modern amphitheatre in the tiny village of Ospedaletti where the locals provide an overwhelming welcome.

Piazza San Michele, Albenga Albenga has the best-preserved historic centre in the region; four of its medieval tower houses and some houses built according to the traditional Roman plan can still be seen. Performances take place on the medieval square of San Michele in front of the eponymous Cathedral.

Bordighera The British have a long-lasting love for this resort which started in 1885 after the publication in Edinburgh of a book extolling the virtues of the town’s temperate winters. At the end of the XIX century, the British visitors outnumbered the locals. Nowadays, British performing groups can still count on the locals’ exceptionally warm welcome.

Piazza Partigiani, Alassio Alassio is a sophisticated resort with a small marina, spectacular views and a lovely beach. Popular as a winter health resort because of its climate, the composer Elgar wrote a concert-overture while holidaying here in the 190319044 Winter. Concerts take place on Piazza Partigiani, right on the water’s edge.

Dolceacqua A stunning medieval hilltop village where time seems to stand still… even Monet was inspired to create four paintings whilst visiting in 1884. A truly magical atmosphere is guaranteed for your performance on the town square.

San Remo A thriving resort with superb leisure facilities, the town has a strong musical heritage and one of the only twelve Symphony Orchestras recognised by the Italian State. Summer performances are arranged on the town squares.

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Sorrento

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Sorrento truly is a spectacular destination for your music tour. A breath-taking coastline, picturesque towns and villages, historic sites which date back to the Romans, a volcano, the sophisticated resort of Capri – plenty to inspire and entertain your students. And let’s not forget the food! This is the home of pizza and you can buy it by the metre in Sorrento. We have been working with our local agent in the area for over 25 years and we guarantee you will receive unparalleled support.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Fly to Naples.

Day 2: Morning at the archaeological site at Pompei. In the afternoon, drive up to Vesuvius and walk to the crater. In the evening, perform in the Church of Corpus Christi in Gragnano.

Day 3: Full day exploration of the island of Capri. Evening concert in the Chiostro of San Francesco.

Day 4: Tour the Amalfi Drive. The narrow road follows the rocky coastline with sheer drops to the blue crystalline water.

Highlights are: Positano, a picturesque village whose colourful buildings seem to cling to the hillside as if by magic; Amalfi with its medieval Cathedral and town centre; Ravello with its fantastic terrace overlooking the sea. Evening performance in Villa Fondi.

Day 5: Fly back to the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Chiostro di San Francesco, Sorrento These cloisters are situated in the heart of Sorrento and used by the local Council for evening summer concerts.

Compact and with sympathetic acoustics, this venue is suitable for all types of ensembles.

Chiesa Madre del Corpus Domini, Gragnano We love this Baroque Church which is the perfect venue for choral and orchestral concerts. The organ is in good working order and can be used by performing groups. Concerts here are organised with the support of one of the local music groups and are always very popular.

Marina Grande, Sorrento The harbour area is busy with locals and tourists.

Performances are arranged in July as part of the celebrations in honour of St Anna, the patron saint of pregnant women.

Villa Fondi, Piano di Sorrento This is a very versatile venue and a popular choice for weddings due to its truly spectacular setting. In the summer, the beautiful gardens overlooking the sea host a regular series of concerts. The rest of the year, performances can be arranged inside the neo-classical mansion itself in the Demetra Hall.

Chiostro SS Trinità, Vico Equense With a large summer stage and tiered audience seating, this venue is ideal for a summer performance. Concerts are widely advertised by the local Council.

Amalfi Cathedral In an elevated position in the heart of Amalfi, this beautiful Cathedral dates back to the XI century. Its splendour is a testament to the town’s wealth as a maritime power in the Middle Ages. Choirs of a high standard can sing at Mass here.

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Malta

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Malta is a small rocky island in the middle of the Mediterranean blessed with sunshine all year round.

It is incredibly rich in inspiring educational visits for groups: the megalithic temples at Ggantija (the oldest freestanding temple in the world aged 7,000 years); the historic cities of Valletta, Rabat and Mdina; the natural beauty of the Blue Grotto, the Dingli Cliffs or Calypso’s Cave; the sea lions and dolphins at Mediterraneo Marine Park… The audiences are very welcoming and the prices are very good value too!

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Day 1: Flight to Malta.

Day 2: Visit Valletta with lunchtime performance in the Upper Barrakka Gardens. See the city’s harbour and fortifications, enjoy a town trail and a show of “The Malta Experience”.

Day 3: Morning exploration of the ancient city of Mdina, the “Silent City”. Head on to the village a Marsaxlokk with its typical fishing boats and take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto. Evening performance on Bay Square in Bugibba.

Day 4: Visit Mediterraneo Marine Park where you can enjoy shows featuring dolphins and sea lions and even interact with them. Perform in Baystreet Shopping Centre.

Day 5: Flight to the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta Every day at midday a cannon shot is fired from the Gun Saluting Battery and numerous tourists flock to the gardens to witness the ceremony. Performances take place right after midday for a guaranteed audience.

Parish Church, Naxxar We recommend a performance in the Parish Church of Naxxar where the priest invites choirs to perform at Mass and on the church steps after Mass. Expect a very welcoming audience!

Parish Church, Mosta Sing in the church of St Mary with its unusual circular shape and impressive dome - the fourth largest in the world! The church is famous for an incident that happened in 1942 when a bomb pierced the dome, landed in the church and slid across its floor without exploding!

Baystreet Shopping Complex, St Julian’s St Julian’s is the tourist capital of Malta – busy, vibrant and young with plenty of cocktail bars, nightclubs, restaurants and smart hotels. The shopping complex is in the centre of the resort and performances are arranged on the open air stage in the central plaza.

Bay Square, Bugibba Bugibba is a pleasant resort popular with families. Bay Square is right on the water’s edge and lined with cafés, bars and restaurants. Groups with a popular and upbeat repertoire are especially welcome here.

St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta Choirs have the opportunity to sing in the splendid setting of St John’s, built in the high Baroque style as a symbol of the wealth and power of the Knights of St John. The Cathedral’s highly ornate interior is truly awe-inspiring.

music@travelbound.co.uk

01273 265 290

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33

The French Alps The French Alps are an area of outstanding beauty stretching from the shores of Lake Geneva to the peak of Mont Blanc. The landscape is amazing with superb views, alpine glaciers and mountain gorges forming a contrasting backdrop to the blue tranquil waters of Lake Geneva. Accommodation is arranged in typical chalet-style hotels in picturesque alpine villages and local visits are stimulating and diverse: the Nestle factory, the Gruyere cheese manufacture, a waterpark, the UN building in Geneva… This is a perfect summer destination for bands and orchestras.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Depart for the French Alps.

Day 2: Afternoon arrival in your resort.

Day 3: Travel to Evian for a boat tour on Lake Geneva to Thonon-les-Bains. Perform an afternoon concert in the medieval bourg of Yvoire.

Day 4: Morning in the waterpark Le Bouveret. In the afternoon, visit the medieval town of Gruyere and see how the famous cheese is made. Evening concert in the Salle Musardière in Chatel.

Day 5: Travel to Montreux for the day and perform as part of the world-famous Jazz Festival.

Day 6: Day in Chatel for souvenir shopping, summer toboggan and a dip in the open air pool. Evening departure.

Day 7: Arrive in the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Montreux Jazz Festival Your group can audition to perform in this prestigious festival which takes place in July. Applications need to be submitted early together with a biography of your group and a sample programme. Your performance will be on the professional stage in Parc Vernex and will be included in the official festival’s programme.

Evian Known as the “pearl of Lake Geneva”, Evian is a spa town famous for its water. Concerts in this elegant resort can be organised either in the Jardin Anglais by the lake or in one of the many central squares.

Yvoire This medieval village is very popular with tourists and provides a lovely backdrop for your performance. Concerts take place in the afternoon on the Place du Thay at the centre of the village and are advertised locally as part of their summer series of events.

Chatel Chatel is a popular alpine resort with a large number of tourists in the summer months. Performances take place in the evening at 8pm on the main square and there is an indoor alternative in case of bad weather.

Vevey During the summer, performances are arranged in the bandstand in the lakeside gardens. For guaranteed large audiences, time your performance with the Marchés Folkloriques which take place every Saturday from the second week of July to the end of August: over 2,000 visitors descend upon the town then.

Chamonix At the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is a sophisticated resort which is popular both in winter and summer.

Concerts take place in the early evening on the main square.

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music@travelbound.co.uk

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www.travelboundmusic.co.uk

Provence

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Sunshine, vineyards, sunflowers, lavender and olive trees conjure up an image of this stunning region in the South of France. Provence is an area steeped in history boasting an extensive number of wellpreserved vestiges of the Roman Empire. The beautiful scenery and special light have attracted many artists including Van Gogh who immortalised the region in his oil paintings. By contrast, the nearby Camargue region offers a unique ecosystem of salt marshes and lagoons. The variety and beauty of Provence will never disappoint.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Travel to Provence.

Day 2: Afternoon arrival.

Day 3: Visit the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct. Head on to Nimes. Visit the Roman Arena, the Tour Magne and the Maison Carreé. Evening performance in St Rémy de Provence.

Day 4: Full day in the Camargue, a nature reserve with lagoons, salt marshes, bulls, horses and flamingos. Performance in Vaison la Romaine.

Day 5: Full day in Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit the magnificent Palais des Papes and tour the medieval ramparts. Performance in the Théâtre de Verdure.

Day 6: Time at the hotel pool before departure.

Day 7: Return to the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Eglise Saint Maurice, Caromb Caromb is a fortified village in a hillside position. The Eglise St Maurice is one of the largest Romanesque churches in the region and has a recently restored 1701 Italian organ available to performing groups.

Pont du Gard A truly spectacular backdrop for you performance, the Pont du Gard is a three-tiered Roman aqueduct soaring over the Gardon valley. The summer stage next to it has tiered seating for the audience. Music performances are arranged daily in the summer months against the illuminated aqueduct.

Church Notre Dame des Sablons, Aigues-Mortes The church is a gem of early Gothic architecture and the oldest monument in the town. Its clean and simple interior and clear acoustics make it ideal for choral performances.

Place de l’Horloge This is Avignon’s main square at the heart of the city.

It features the Town Hall and the Opera House and is bordered by many restaurants and cafés. This square is the main venue for the Festival d’Avignon every July.

St Rémy de Provence Nestling at the foot of the Alpilles mountains, St Rémy is one of the must-see towns of Provence. Vincent Van Gogh lived here and produced more than 150 paintings inspired by the town and its countryside. Popular summer concerts take place on the main square in the evening.

Théâtre du Piei, Lagnes Lagnes is a charming village dominated by a XIII castle.

Locals and visitors travel from the neighbouring villages to enjoy the evening performances in the amphitheatre.

music@travelbound.co.uk

01273 265 290

www.travelboundmusic.co.uk

35

Croatia

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Croatia is still relatively untouched by modern tourism and a superb destination for those groups seeking an alternative to Italy and Spain. You will be based in the town of Opatija on the Kvarner Riviera: a fashionable destination for the Austrian Imperial family and nobility in the XIX century, famous guests included the Emperor Franz Joseph I and the dancer Isadora Duncan. The region was part of Italy between the two World Wars and Italian influence is still visible today in the area’s food and language.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Depart the UK. Day 2: Arrive in Opatija.

Day 3: See one of Croatia’s 1,185 islands by travelling to Krk. Evening concert on the main square in Vrbnik.

Day 4: Morning visit to the Postonja Caves in Slovenia with performance on the terraces outside the entrance. Return to Croatia to enjoy the rest of the day in Rijeka with an evening performance in the Castle.

Day 5: Visit the Roman Amphitheatre in Pula and the medieval town of Rovinj. In the evening, perform your final concert in the Church of St Francis.

Day 6: Souvenir shopping in the morning before your afternoon departure.

Day 7: Arrive back in the UK.

CROATIAN TOURIST BOARD © Josip Madračević

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Opatija amphitheatre Located by the Park Angiolina, the large amphitheatreshaped auditorium has a capacity of 2,500 seats. The smaller stage is perfectly suited to performances by youth groups and has a capacity of 200 seats.

Juraj Sporer Arts Pavilion, Opatija A refurbished historical venue, the Arts Pavilion hosts more intimate musical performances and is a classy background for a polished programme. There is a thriving art and concert programme and the venue is located in the heart of the tourist area.

Kvarner Hotel The oldest hotel in Opatja located right on the seafront. The hotel’s Crystal Ballroom with its everlasting grandeur is a spectacular venue with an audience capacity of 900 people.

The beautiful summer terrace overlooking the sea is used for performances in the summer months.

Trsat Castle, Rijeka There has been a castle of some description on this site since Roman times. The castle today has an eccentric mix of turrets with spectacular views over Rijeka. Evening concerts are regularly hosted as part of the castle’s cultural programme.

Krk Island Choirs are invited to sing in the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a twelfth-century basilica built over a fifth-century site dating from an earlier Roman construction.

Outdoor performances can be arranged on the charming square in Vrbnik, a medieval village perched high on the eastern coast of the island.

Church of St Francis, Rovinj The Church of St Francis is the main venue for many professional visiting ensembles during the town’s summer classical music festival. The eighteenth-century St Euphemia is also a potential venue.

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music@travelbound.co.uk

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Krakow

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A millennium of history has made Krakow a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Krakow is the former capital of Poland and as such impresses in its architecture and culture. The Old Town Market Square is one of the largest in Europe and its surroundings have remained unchanged for nearly 700 years! We are pleased to recommend this as a concert destination for all groups due to our excellent local connections with venues ranging from the informal to the world-class.

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Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Fly to Krakow.

Day 2: Walking tour of the historic city centre to include the Market Square, St Mary’s church, Collegium Maius and the Royal Route. Climb to the top of Wawel Hill where the Royal Castle stands and visit the Gothic Cathedral, the burial place of Polish kings. Performance in St Peter’s and St Paul’s Church.

Day 3: Guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Late afternoon outdoor performance in Rabka Spa Town.

Day 4: Excursion to Wieliczka Salt Mines with choral performance in Kinga’s Chapel. Return to Krakow for a visit of the Jewish Ghetto and Schindler’s Factory.

Folklore evening.

Day 5: Fly to the UK.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire St Peter’s & St Paul’s Church Located on the Royal Route to the Castle, this was the first Baroque Church in Krakow. Its opulent interior and excellent acoustics make it very popular for choral and orchestral performances.

St Kinga’s Chapel Don’t miss a visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mines where choirs can perform in a unique setting – a deep underground cathedral hewn from solid salt! The magical atmosphere and the brilliant acoustics guarantee an unforgettable performance.

Krakow Music Academy Founded in 1945, the Academy has approximately 350 pupils. The Concert Hall has perfect acoustics and is airconditioned; its interior feels warm and light.

Franciscan Church Originally built in 1260, the church had to be re-built after a fire in 1850 and it acquired its striking stained-glass windows then. It can accommodate large choirs and orchestras and is in a very central location in Krakow.

Bandstand, Rabka This Spa town became known in Europe after World War I as a healing centre for children affected by tubercolosis. During World War II, it was occupied by the Nazis and became the holiday centre for German children from bombarded cities.

In the summer months, performances can be arranged in the covered amphitheatre in the Spa gardens.

Community Centre, Kety Kety is located about 65 Km from Krakow. Construction of the Community Centre started in 1974 to commemorate the town’s 700th anniversary. The Centre’s activities focus around young people and school performing groups are especially welcome. The Concert Hall has a capacity of 300 and a local reputation for music events.

music@travelbound.co.uk

01273 265 290

www.travelboundmusic.co.uk

37

New York

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“Our performance at St Paul’s Chapel at Ground Zero was a very moving experience that the choir will never forget.”

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Why travel to New York with Travelbound?

For decades, New York has been where America has made news, money and music, and now continues to be the bustling heart of America that draws people, influences and ideas from all over the world. There’s nowhere that’s more intense, diverse and guaranteed to enthral. Musicians will have an added interest in New York as some of the best classical, jazz, opera and musical theatre continues to be produced in the city.

We guarantee you will want to go back!

Lifetime memories...

Day 1: Fly to New York. Spend some time on Times Square.

Day 2: Take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island. Free time at South Street Seaport for shopping and photo opportunity with Brooklyn Bridge in the background. Lunchtime performance at St Paul’s Chapel followed by a visit of the 9/11 Memorial. Meal at Planet Hollywood before a Broadway Show.

Day 3: Explore Central Park and perform at the Cathedral of St John the Divine. Afternoon shopping on the world-famous Fifth Avenue. Backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall and night-time visit to the top of the Empire State Building.

Day 4: Visit Grand Central Station and the UN Building.

Overnight flight home.

Day 5: Arrive London.

Broadway Workshops Enrich your visit with a Broadway workshop focussing on the show you are going to see. Run

by Broadway professionals, the workshops cover: Broadway Rehearsal, Dance Workshop, Broadway Song and Dance, Theatre Games and Improvisation, Stage Combat.

© Stephanie Berger

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Cathedral of St John the Divine Affectionately known as Big John amongst the locals, this is the world’s largest Cathedral - yet unfinished. It is so large that it is over 2 football fields long and so tall that the Statue of Liberty would comfortably fit under its dome! The Cathedral is famous for its 8 second reverberation. A grand piano is available.

South Street Seaport A vibrant shopping area offering spectacular views over Brooklyn Bridge, South Street Seaport offers groups the opportunity to perform from October to May as part of its dedicated high school music programme. An audition process is in place.

St Paul’s Chapel, Ground Zero Opened in 1766, St Paul’s Chapel escaped destruction when the World Trade Center buildings collapsed on September 11, 2001 and now plays a vital role in telling the 9.11 story. More than one million people visit every year; photos, cards, drawings, flags and other items sent to encourage rescue workers or as memorials can still be seen. Performances are at 1pm and a grand piano is available.

Central Park Bandshell At the heart of Central Park, the Bandshell regularly features performances by the New York Symphony Orchestra. A large audience of New Yorkers and visitors is guaranteed all year round.

The USS Intrepid Museum Complex Performances take place on the flight deck or on the pier and are open to choirs, bands and dance groups.

Definitely a unique performance opportunity!

St Patrick’s Cathedral In the heart of Manhattan, the Cathedral receives over 5.5 million visitors every year. Top level choirs are invited to perform lunchtime recitals all year round. A strict audition process is in place and early application is essential.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 39

China

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“The orchestra loved their joint concert at the school in Beijing. Meeting other students of similar age was a great experience and for many the 40 start of new friendships. ”

Why travel to China with Travelbound?

Lifetime memories...

China is an amazing country full of history, art and natural beauty; a truly inspirational experience for your young musicians. As well as the capital, Beijing, we can arrange visits and performances in Shanghai, Hong Kong and Xian. We have been working with our agent Drin for over fifteen years and all our groups receive outstanding service and support. Our tours are fully escorted with both national and local guides and groups stay in excellent three star hotels in twin bedded rooms.

Day 2: Full day exploration of Beijing including Tiananmen Square, the Olympic Stadium and the iconic Water Cube.

Exclusive to Travelbound

Day 5: Visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square and perform a concert there. Explore the Ancient City Walls. In the evening, experience the Night Markets.

6 – 13 July 2013 Available through Travelbound only in the UK, Tutti world youth music Beijing is an exciting weeklong event for school age musicians and singers from around the world and provides unparalleled opportunity to enhance and showcase their talent in a non-competitive environment.

Day 7: Take part in a traditional Kung Fu lesson and go shopping on Wangfujing Street. Enjoy a show of Chinese Acrobatics.

Day 1: Depart the UK.

Day 3: Visit the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site stretching over 6500 kilometres and perform there. Be inspired by the Temple of Heaven, China’s largest existing complex of ancient sacrificial buildings. Enjoy a traditional Beijing Duck dinner in a city restaurant.

Day 4: Visit the Forbidden City Complex, home to Chinas’ Emperors from 1420. In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, an expanse of elaborate Qing-style pavilions, bridges, walkaways and gardens scattered along the shores of the immense Kunming Lake. Board the first-class overnight train for Xian.

Day 6: Visit the Terracotta Warriors and perform a joint concert in a local school before taking the overnight train to Beijing.

Day 8: Transfer to the airport for your inbound flight.

Top performances guaranteed to inspire Great Wall Informal performances can be arranged at this iconic sight for a truly unforgettable experience.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square An ancient Buddhist building dating from 652 AD and a major tourist attraction in China. The Square is an enchanting area of gardens, sculptures and 22 different styles of musical fountains.

Temple of Heaven One of the most beautiful buildings in China and definitely one of the most visited sights in Beijing. A large audience of tourists and locals is guaranteed.

Music schools A visit to China is about sharing your music cultural heritage with the locals and learning about their traditions and customs. There is great interest and curiosity in China for Western types of music and we have established contacts with various music schools keen to host joint performances.

The Bund, Shanghai The Bund is the oldest Anglo-Chinese financial district in China with impressive riverfront gothic architecture and great shopping along Nanjing Road. Concerts in one of the shopping malls are a great way to entertain the crowds.

Forbidden City Concert Hall A professional venue in the heart of Beijing, the Concert Hall has unparalleled acoustics and it is a fantastic venue for ambitious ensembles.

Hong Kong Disneyland Choirs, orchestras, bands, dance groups and marching bands can perform in the Theme Park as part of the Disney Performing Arts Programme.

A selection process by audition is in place.

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 41

Other Inspiring Destination

Š Alex Demyan and NewOrleansOnline.com

Jazz Museum in New Orleans 42

London

Edinburgh

Our capital city needs no introduction: Big Ben, the London Eye and Buckingham Palace are worldrenowned landmarks. The West End Theatre productions are second to none. Performance venues such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Hyde Park or the Embankment Gardens will not fail to inspire.

Visit the iconic castle, Holyroodhouse or the Zoo. Perform at Edinburgh or Stirling Castle; sing at Mass at St Giles’ or Canongate; play in the Royal Botanical Gardens.

You don’t need to travel far to inspire your students!

Liverpool

Dublin

The home of the Beatles! Follow in the Fab Four’s footsteps and see Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields and the Cavern before visiting the interactive museum dedicated to them! Perform in the city itself or in historic Chester.

Experience the famous Irish hospitality and love of music! This destination is so close to home and yet so exciting with performance possibilities in the Guinness Storehouse, St Stephen’s Green, St Patrick’s Cathedral or further afield in Howth and Bray.

Umbria

Rome

Our tours to Umbria will enable your group to perform in the splendid churches of Assisi, Todi and Perugia while exploring the local medieval architecture and picturesque landscape. The Umbria Jazz Festival in July is also open to youth groups of high standard.

The Eternal City is rich with over 2,000 years of history to inspire and excite your students. The presence of many prestigious historic churches makes it an ideal destination for sacred choirs with Mass participation in St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican often being the tour highlight.

Bulgaria

Cyprus

One of the last truly undiscovered European countries, Bulgaria has a strong musical tradition and very welcoming audiences. Discover the local culture with a joint concert with a local ensemble and enjoy the country’s historic heritage.

We have excellent local contacts in this sunny island and can guarantee a very high level of personal service.

The diversity of local venues can cater for all types of groups and the presence of a substantial British expat community ensures a very receptive audience.

Athens

Central Spain

One of the oldest cities in the world, the birthplace of democracy, philosophy and drama, Athens will leave an indelible impression on your group. Sing a cappella in Epidaurus Theatre and learn some traditional dances.

Steeped in history and cultural heritage, this area encompasses the cities of Madrid, Segovia and Burgos.

Suitable for choirs and orchestras of high standard, the region offers high calibre venues and very welcoming audiences. Spring and Autumn are the best times of the year for a tour.

Estonia

St Petersburg

Music is at the core of Estonia’s culture and heritage and singing played a big part in the country’s independence struggle in the early 1990’s. You will be based in the charming medieval town of Tallinn from where it is easy to explore the rest of this small country. Estonia is an ideal destination for choirs.

A beautiful city with magnificent art and a strong musical heritage: Shostakovich was born here and wrote his seventh symphony during the siege of Leningrad.

Performances are possible at many of the beautiful churches, including thae catholic churches of the Assumption and Our Lady of Lourdes.

Chicago

New Orleans

Home of the Blues and birthplace of the modern skyscraper, the Windy City boasts an exciting Performing Arts scene, stunning architecture and worldclass museums. Performances range from Millennium Park or Navy Pier to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower.

Explore the city’s jazz heritage and its French Creole history. Perform in local parks, churches, plantations and on the deck of the Creole Queen boat. Extra days in Memphis and even Nashville can be added to your tour for a truly musical experience.

Toronto

Argentina

One of the most ethnically diverse and cosmopolitan cities in the world, Toronto is a vibrant destination with varied performance opportunities in schools, bandstands, churches and local attractions such as the CN Tower or Casa Loma. A day trip to nearby Niagara Falls is a must.

The home of tango! Depending on your budget, you can visit Buenos Aires only or explore the pampas, the scenic landscape along the Rio de la Plata Coast and even the Iguazu Falls. Perform in local Cathedrals, museum gardens, schools and concert halls and enjoy a tango workshop!

For more inspiration, more itineraries, more options call us today on 01273 265 290 or head over to www.travelboundmusic.co.uk 43

Please contact us to request more information or to make an enquiry Call: 01273 265 290 Fax: 01273 265 237 Email: music@travelbound.co.uk Website: www.travelboundmusic.co.uk

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