We have much planned for 2011-12, but cannot release all the details just yet! All five choirs will be participating in trips and tours for music festivals and competitions…some as one-day, local trips, others as more extensive tours. Every student is expected to make the effort to participate in these planned trips. Multiple fundraising opportunities will be offered to help defray the cost as well as sponsorship through our VMPA Corporate Friends.
TOUR INFORMATION & PRICING
- All pricing will be given as soon as a firm estimate is made, including a payment plan (which will be created for you).
- The current information will be distributed and discussed at the Mandatory Parent Orientation on Tuesday, Sept 13th.
- It is STRONGLY suggested that students begin all fundraising immediately to “bank” some funds.
- Efforts are being made through VMPA to potentially lower tour costs for each student – more information will given as monies are received and student’s accounts adjusted accordingly. Chaperones on major tours will have a reduction in their tour pricing.
- A limited amount of Tour Assistance is available for students & families with special financial needs. See Director for more information. Applications will be made available in January 2012.
- Tour shirts are included in the Operations Contribution for each student of each group.
NOTE from MR. TISON regarding Tour Participation:
The Vocal Music Program plans and participates in tours and music festival performance trips each Spring with each of our performing groups. Each destination and trip duration is based on the level of the performing group.
Tours are a significant part of our educational process. Students will be given opportunities to see a wide variety of places around the world, performing in beautiful symphony halls, cathedrals and other unique venues!
Students are not required to attend and participate in events that are not local/regional, and grades are not affected by participation in these optional tours. Participation is HIGHLY encouraged for students in the advanced ensembles (Concert Choir and Troubadours).
Students are offered many opportunities for fundraising throughout the year through the VMPA
(Vocal Music Parent Association) – the booster support group. Tour assistance funds are designated, when available, to help individual students/families who meet the assistance criteria.
Larger donations (corporate, foundations, etc) are solicited and used to offset overall trip expenses, bringing down the total cost per individual student. If you can help with this, please offer ideas!
Each tour and trip is planned on a strict budget while ensuring the safety, comfort and well being of all participants. Each tour and trip is staffed by an adequate number of chaperones who work diligently with Mr. Tison to ensure the safety and compliance of all expectations regarding behavior, curfews, check-in times, etc. ALL students are held to high accountability to maintain the integrity of the Vocal Music Program.
Each tour and trip is planned to provide EDUCATIONAL, MUSICAL, HISTORICAL, CULTURAL and SOCIAL experiences that will prove to be rewarding and memorable for each student!
This remains our goal…and our track record!!
Cost should NOT be an obstacle to a student’s participation on a tour. There are options that BEGIN with a student’s hard work and determination! If you need to discuss with Mr. Tison, please see him ASAP rather than assuming or waiting!
