I’ve recently been lucky enough to do some traveling at home and abroad and it reminded me once again what an incredibly valuable experience it can be for anyone, but especially students. Because of my long military career I’ve been in every U.S. state and to 61 countries (and counting) and there is nothing that can replace the chance to experience other cultures, regions,accents, and food.
Speaking of accents, it reminded me of the time when the Army band I was with was doing a concert in Stratford-0n-Avon in England, the home of William Shakespeare. We had one of our soldiers who was from rural South Carolina, introduce a piece and the audience members’ seemed deeply perplexed until I said, “sometimes we can’t understand him either.”
In this issue, several of the leading and most reputable student travel companies share their tips on how to have a successful student travel experience. This is one of the most important decisions a director can make because of the potential for great educational experiences and the amount of resources required from families. Years ago, when I was working to support a Presidential Inaugural Parade, I had a friend whose band was selected to march in the parade. He had hired a hometown inexperienced agent who was a friend of a band booster and was the lowest bidder. When my friend described their itinerary to me, it was obvious the agent had no inkling of Washington, D.C. geography or traffic and the plan was completely unworkable. Sadly, the band missed several planned events and even worse, several pre-paid meals. Don’t let this happen to you!
The deadline for submitting a nomination for “50 Music Teachers Who Make a Difference” is rapidly approaching. Make sure your music ed hero is recognized. Click here or go to SBOplus.net and select Awards.
One of my more recent trips was to the 2026 NAMM Show. Wow! This should be on every educator’s bucket list to experience. The quantity and quality of clinics, sessions, performances, and exhibits is unmatched. You never know who you will meet or hear performing on the exhibit floor because all of the major manufacturers have their performing artists there to play for (and with!) attendees. I went to a reception sponsored by VanDoren and heard three of the most incredible jazz clarinetists I ever heard. If you’re looking at the exhibits, there’s a very good chance you’ll cross paths with Stevie Wonder who comes every year.
Next month, our team of secret correspondents will share their selection of the “Best Tools for Schools” from the NAMM Show.
