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. Information regarding this year's trip to Orlando, Florida, 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 Orlando trip will take place April 13-17, 2011.
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. Please see the information about this year's Orlando trip for details.
What does it cost?
Fees vary from year to year and generally cover bus transportation, hotel, night security, festival participation fees, workshops and clinics, travel insurance, sightseeing, and meals. An information packet is distributed to the students each year in September describing the costs. Students and their families pay for the trip. Any student or family for whom covering trip costs would be a hardship should speak with Ms. Alvey 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 at Whitman the day before the trip. Students bring their bags to the auditorium lobby, where they are tagged with the appropriate bus number, and locked in overnight. 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 trip chaperones. Students may bring a pillow and blanket, entertainment, snacks and other “comfort” items for the ride on the bus.
Trip Policies
In accordance with MCPS policy, student possession or consumption of alcohol or illegal substances is 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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