Author - Audrey Scrogham

Ornate Chinese boat on the water

Expanding Global Opportunities: Exploring Student Travel in China

Educational Destinations (MTC's educational travel division) Travel Designer Mary Godley shares her recent experience exploring exciting student travel opportunities throughout China. Her takeaway? China is the ideal destination for a wide range of student arts, education and performance trips. I had the immense joy and honor to join an eight-night professional tour in China with the Student and Youth Travel Association and the Chinese National Tourist Office of New York. Our mission was to explore student educational tourism....

Embark on an Epic Adventure at Universal’s Newest Theme Park

Universal Epic Universe combines five thrilling fantasy worlds into one must-visit destination. Universal's newest theme park, Epic Universe, opened in May 2025. The park is split into five portals, each an immersive experience designed to make visitors feel like they're walking through their favorite movie or video game. Five Worlds How to Train Your Dragon: Step into the Isle of Berk to meet your favorite characters, whether Viking or dragon. Super Nintendo World: See your favorite video game...
band marching in Rose Parade

Student Bands Perform on a National Stage at the 2026 Rose Parade

Four bands traveled with Music Travel Consultants (MTC) to march in the 2026 Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. Performing in this nationally televised event is a distinction that students and directors alike dream of achieving. From Bandfest to official photos to parade step-off, participation includes a full week of exciting, time-honored traditions. These experiences combine performance excellence with meaningful educational travel. The Bands of America Honor Band A New Year’s Day Tradition The Rose Parade is one of the most iconic...

First-Ever Show Choir Performs in Philly Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade has never featured a show choir - until this year. So when Todd Marcocci contacted Pendleton Heights HS (IN) Choir Director Erin Archer with the opportunity, it was too important to pass up. Pendleton Heights delivered a magical performance on national television, proving that show choirs deserve a lasting place in the lineup. Preparation for parade day began months in advance, beginning at the choir's July summer camp. "We learned the vocals and most of the...

4,000 Miles – Kenai Central Band’s Historic Journey to BOA Grand Nationals

In November, the Kenai Central Band from Kenai, Alaska, stepped onto the field of one of the biggest events in marching band: the Bands of America (BOA) Grand National Championships. Many in the stadium had been following their travels from Alaska to Indianapolis: Kenai was the second band from Alaska in BOA history to ever make the trek. For the director, students and parents, this moment was a dream long in the making. For the first step of...

Top 5 Fall Student Travel Destinations

From beautiful foliage to all things scary and spooky, keep reading for five fall student travel destinations you won't want to miss. Boston, MA With stunning foliage framing historic sights, groups have a chance to experience quintessential fall weather in Boston. Travelers can also take a side trip to Salem, MA, for a thrilling haunted tour. Knott's Berry Farm At night, Knott's Berry Farm in Southern California transforms into Knott's Scary Farm, offering major thrills...
fall break travel

Benefits of Fall Break Travel

Fall break travel is one of student travel’s best-kept secrets — off-peak pricing, lighter crowds and smoother, more relaxed days from start to end. Traveling in the fall means shorter lines, easier access to top attractions and the bonus of festive seasonal events that make every stop more memorable. With mild, predictable weather and a calmer pace, groups enjoy a higher-quality experience, often at a lower cost. More Affordable Groups often see better rates for hotels, bus fares and even airfare during...

Trip Snapshot: Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH, is the perfect blend of performance opportunities, engaging museums and immersive history. The Eureka HS (MO) orchestra's 2025 Cincinnati trip showcased a sampling of some of the best the city has to offer.   Group Bonding at Main Event The group stopped for dinner and games upon their arrival in Cincinnati, providing an energetic opening to an activity-packed trip.   Clinic at the University of Cincinnati Students visited the Corbett Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Cincinnati for a clinic opportunity,...

Colony HS in Ireland: St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Beyond

Where better to celebrate St. Patrick's Day than in Ireland? The Colony HS (AK) marching band, known as THEE Northern Sound, had the experience of a lifetime marching in the 2025 St. Patrick's Day Parade in Dublin. The prestigious invitation was awarded based on the band's application, which took years of preparation and dedication.   Besides marching in the parade, the Colony HS music department immersed itself in Irish culture. They took in the stunning landscapes, performed in historic...

Students Embark on International Performance Tours

The Music Travel Consultants family of brands is pleased to announce this summer's Musicians Abroad international student performance tours! With performance destinations across Europe, student musicians will soon experience the trip of a lifetime. High school band, orchestra and choir students were nominated by their directors for this experience based on character, leadership and musicianship. Led by experienced educators, groups will become international performers in iconic locations such as London, Paris, Salzburg, Andermatt and Heidelberg. Indiana Musicians Abroad June 11-26,...