Author - Bethany Barngrover

The Top 5 Destinations for Student Music Travel

Every year, student musicians across the country step beyond their rehearsal rooms to perform, learn and grow through travel. While every program’s goals are different, one thing is clear: some destinations consistently rise to the top. Based on Music Travel Consultants’ 2025 trips, these five destinations stood out as the most popular choices for bands, choirs and orchestras. From cultural hubs to performance-packed cities, here’s our countdown of the Top 5 destinations for student music travel, starting at No. 5...
Orchestra and choir on stage for Disney's Candlelight Processional
Wide shot image of entire stage performance of Disney's Candlelight processional featuring a mass choir and orchestra

Carmel HS Choir and Terre Haute North Vigo HS Choir Take the Stage at EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional

In late December 2025, two Indiana choirs stepped into one of Walt Disney World’s most meaningful holiday traditions: EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional. Carmel High School Choir, directed by Katie Kouns, performed Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, followed by Terre Haute North Vigo Choir, directed by Michelle Azar, on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025. Both groups performed once, but the experience carried the weight of a career highlight. Candlelight is not a typical theme park performance. It is a full-scale concert presentation of the Christmas...
MTC Appreciation Reception Logo

Meet Music Travel Consultants at The Midwest Clinic 2025

Every December, music educators and industry leaders head to Chicago for The Midwest Clinic International Band, Orchestra and Music Conference, the world’s largest instrumental music education conference. With more than 18,000 attendees from all 50 states and over 40 countries, it’s an incredible opportunity to learn, connect, discover new music and explore the latest trends in our field. In 2025, the 79th Midwest Clinic will be held December 17 - 19, 2025 (Wednesday - Friday) at McCormick Place West...
Overhead view of bands lined up on the field of Lucas Oil Stadium before Grand National Championships finals awards

Behind the Scenes at Bands of America Grand National Championships

In November, over 100 bands competed at the Bands of America Grand National Championships, many of which are long-standing clients of the Music Travel Consultants family of brands. This recap highlights the event and the role our team plays in supporting their experience. Bentonville HS (AR) What Is Bands of America Grand Nationals? Each November, high school marching bands from across the country converge on Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis for Music for All’s Bands of America Grand National Championships,...

March in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: A Band Director’s Guide

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade provides marching bands a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join a cherished American tradition and leave their mark in history. But how do they get there? Check out the steps it actually takes to find your marching band in Herald Square on Thanksgiving morning. How to Apply to March in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade The application process can be completed entirely online. The form must be completed and submitted by the band director to the selection committee email....