The Highlands High School Schola Cantorum, under the direction of Justin Durham, recently returned from touring and performing in the cities of Vienna, Budapest, and Prague as part of the American Celebration of Music concert series. While on tour, Justin kept a daily blog of their activities which can be accessed here.

The following is from Justin’s feedback and excerpts from his blog:

It was a great tour. Everything was positive. It is hard to nail down one highlight. I personally enjoyed the first concert in Vienna’s Karlskirche. I was truly surprised at the number in attendance (over 300!!) and their reaction to our performance. I think the kids sang the best there as well. Overall I enjoyed seeing 16 months of planning pay off in the experience for the students and parents who went.

For the students I think it’s a toss-up. Those who went on the excursion to the horse show (Budapest) really enjoyed that experience. If I had to say a whole group highlight, I’d say it was the impromptu performance in Prague in front of the Astronomical clock where hundreds gathered to hear. They were really wound up after that and they seemed to be singing because they loved to do it. It was a neat thing.

Both of our Tour Managers couldn’t’ be better. They are amazing! I don’t want to travel with any other managers. They were absolutely terrific. They both went out of their ways to provide a better experience and more opportunities for people to enjoy their time in each city. They each went above their call to duty and I’m so thankful they were with us.

It was a wonderful experience and I would be glad to serve as a reference.

Justin Durham