Orchestra to travel to Spain this summer

This summer, members of the school’s orchestra and band will be traveling to Spain and two ensembles will perform: the symphony orchestra and the symphonic wind ensemble. The trip will take place from June 21 to July 4.

They will perform in the city of Valencia at the Palau de la Musica de Valencia, in the city of Penescola at the Penescola castle and in Barcelona at the outdoors concert hall Parc de la Ciutadella as part of the city-sponsored Musica Als Parcs Program.

Both ensembles will also perform in the all-glass encased concert hall Palau de la Musica de Barcelona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and at the largest indoor concert hall in San Sebastian.

“I'm super excited because I've never visited Europe before,” junior cello player Jasmine Deng said. “I can't wait to visit cities Barcelona and San Sebastian and to perform with all my fellow symphony orchestra friends in beautiful and renowned concert halls like the Palau de la Música Catalana.”

The cost for students to participate is approximately $4,000, according to Deng. 

In addition to the band and orchestra, some Spanish students will also attend the trip, and their itinerary will be based on school exchanges and visits with other schools in the area. Arnaldo Rodriguex will accompany the Spanish students on the trip where they hope to learn more about the history and culture of Spain.

“I’ve never been out of the country, and my best friend is going with me, so I know it’s going to be fun,” junior 4 Honors Spanish student Uma Kumar said. “I know we’re going to go see lots of dances and cultural things, so it should be pretty exciting.”

Fortunately, for the members of the band and orchestra who do not know how to speak or understand Spanish, the Spanish students will serve as interpreters and announcers.

“I hope to gain a better understanding of Spanish culture and I'm sure the trip will be a once in a lifetime experience.” Deng said.