What is the trip’s purpose?
Each year, students in the Whitman music department travel somewhere in the U.S. or Canada and usually participate in a major music competition. For the 2009-2010 school year, the music department has been accepted to perform a full concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Information regarding this year's trip is available in the attached letter from Mr. Davidson and Ms. Alvey.
When is the annual trip?
The annual trip takes place in the spring, usually in late March and/or early April. The concert at Carnegie Hall will be on Saturday, April 24, 2010, yet the exact departure and return dates and times have not yet been determined.
Which groups go?
Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Treble Chorale, Advanced Women's Chorus, Men's Chorus and Chamber Choir.
How is it supervised?
Approximately 18-20 Whitman teachers and administrators accompany the students.
Where do they stay?
Students stay in a hotel near the festival/concert site. Specific accommodations vary from year to year depending on the venue.
What does it cost?
Fees vary from year to year. An information packet is distributed to the students each year in September describing the costs. Students and their families pay for the trip. The fees cover transportation, hotel, night security, festival participation fees, workshops and clinics, travel insurance, sightseeing, and all meals. Anyone for whom paying for the trip would be a hardship should speak with Ms. Alvey or Mr. LoRusso to make arrangements.
How do they get there?
The music department rents luxury video motor coaches (buses) to transport the students and their instruments.
How is luggage handled?
Luggage, except for a bus carry-on, is checked in the day before the trip at Whitman. Bags are brought to the auditorium lobby, tagged with the student's bus number, and locked overnight in the auditorium. Parent volunteers are needed each year to help with this process. Any carry-on luggage and instruments are brought to the buses at departure and are subject to inspection by the trip chaperones. Students are encouraged to bring a pillow and blanket, entertainment, snacks for the ride and other “comfort” items with them on the bus.
Trip Policies
In accordance with MCPS policy, student possession or consumption of alcohol or illegal substances in STRICTLY forbidden. Any violation will be dealt with immediately, including the return of the student to his/her home at the parents’ expense.
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