This October, 107 Wauwatosa East High School Orchestra students will travel throughout Italy to perform and experience the culture of Italy.
The performance tour, which will take place October 8-17, 2023, will include stops in Rome, Florence, Montecatini, Pisa, Assisi, Lucca, and Venice. Students will perform twice, with the first performance being held at the Chiesa Valdese di Roma and the second in front of the Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption on the central square of Montecatini Terme.
This year marks one of the largest international tour groups for the Wauwatosa East Orchestra, with nearly 110 students participating. Students will be led by Director of Orchestras Mr. Michael Hayden.
"We are absolutely thrilled for this tour and the invaluable experiences it will provide our young musicians,” said Hayden. “The opportunity to explore and perform in Italy will create lifelong memories for our students, instilling newfound knowledge and confidence in them as students, musicians, and citizens.”
Throughout the tour, students will be able to visit Vatican City, the Roman Colosseum, the Forum, and St. Mark's Basilica, and also traverse the waterways of Venice.
"Our high school orchestra program offers exceptional opportunities for our students to refine their musical talents and grow as individuals,” said Dr. Demond Means, Superintendent. “This year, we are excited to provide an unforgettable international experience for our students. This memorable trip will leave a lasting mark on our students for the rest of their lives."
Traditionally, Wauwatosa East Orchestra students have the opportunity to travel every two years, alternating between domestic and international destinations. Most recently, the orchestra traveled to Los Angeles in spring 2022 and Austria and the Czech Republic in October 2019.
To learn more about the Wauwatosa East Orchestra Program, visit Facebook, Instagram or the Wauwatosa East Orchestra website.