District 99 Honors Band - Germany/Chezk Republic 2008

Germany Concerts to Air on DGTV This Week!

2008-08-25T16:49:00.002+02:00

DGTV-6 will be airing compilation footage of the District 99 Honors Band concerts in Europe from this past June. The next scheduled time is:

Wed. Aug 27th at 6pm and 9pm.

The broadcast will run additional times on Channel 6 for the next several weeks.

For any interested viewers who live outside the broadcast area, DGTV streams on the Internet.

Log onto the Village web site: www.downers.us

From here, click in multimedia. On the next page click on the words "DGTV webcast"
which are printed in brown. This will launch the live feed from DGTV.

Hope you enjoy the your concert!

Help yourself to BT's pictures

2008-06-26T23:03:00.003+02:00

A number of folks have contacted me asking if it's okay to download pictures that I posted to the Blog. Thanks for asking. The answer is YES! That's why I posted an album here.

To those who may not have noticed, on the right side of the page is a link to a BT's Photo album. I have tried to include some of my pictures here of events where students may not have had their cameras available. I also included section pictures that were taken at the Musikschule lunch. Enjoy, and help yourself.

BT

AN ALOHA HAIKU TO GERMANY

2008-06-23T18:57:00.007+02:00

Bags a mess. Laundry.
Family. Baseball. Meetings.
I miss Germany.

Final Thoughts And Pictures

2008-06-23T00:14:00.013+02:00

So here I am sitting at home, listening to some football music my host family gave me, and reflecting on my time abroad and my first trip overseas. As the trip came to a close, I caught myself wishing for more time to spend in Germany. I couldn't believe it, as much as I missed my home, the thought of leaving such a beautiful country was almost unbearable. The air was clean and the land was green and beautiful.

(Berlin from the airplane, taken shortly after takeoff)

(The fields in Bietigheim-Bissingen behind my house)

I have learned so much and met so many different people, German, Czech and even new people from DGS. People from different walks of life, all brought together through music. Music truly is the universal language, and I am glad I was able to be a part of this exchange. I would really like to thank my wonderful host family for taking great care of me and making me feel more like a member of the family instead of just another tourist visiting their house.

(My host family)

There is so much about Germany that I will miss.I think that I will miss all of the excitement of the football games in the Euro Cup tournament a whole lot. It was so much fun to be caught up in the noise and excitement of the public viewings. I will definitely miss Bionade (a cross between lemonade and soda that is all natural) and all the bakeries along the streets in Germany (mmmm.... Fresh bread every morning!). I really loved all the historical sites that we visited, I think the one that had the most impact on me was the Teresienstaldt Memorial for some of the Jewish victims of WWII. It was shocking to see all the gravestones in a line and to think that it was all the idea of a single person that set this tragedy in motion.

(Teresienstaldt Memorial)

Well I guess this is probably a final goodbye from me unless I find something else I think is worth sharing. I would like to again thank the directors and chaperones for everything they did from setting up the trip to helping students get from place to place on time (shout out to Mrs. Williams for always being on time) and to all the drivers and tour guides for being excellent and always getting us to where we needed to be. Peace to all and thank you for reading.

Tschüss,
Ben Tullis

Home at last

2008-06-21T21:43:00.002+02:00

Well, as we have now been home for a day, I thought I'd post my last blog (and first blog in a while, as it turns out) as a reflection on the trip as a whole. One word sums up my feelings on the tour: epic. Epic music was performed in our concerts. Epic experiences were shared among friends as we saw the historic sights of Germany and the Czech Republic. Epic perspectives were gained, through learning what it was like to live in communist housing during the Russian occupation of East Berlin and the Czech Republic. Epic food was most certainly ingested, as Mr. Williams will enthusiastically attest to. I myself, had an overall epic cultural experience. The knowledge I gained of Germany, magnified by my love of Germany and the German language, is priceless. The friendships we made and fostered were most definetely epic. The constant feeling of brotherhood and selflessness towards those who need a little help to get by was astoundingly epic. As many may know, without these epic qualities, I would not have been able to finish a successful trip. Sure, we had our rough patches, as all trips and tours do, but we got there and oh, what a ride it was. We all miss Europe very much, I'm sure. We miss our epic host families, or "German parents," as I and other students have dubbed them. But we also are happy to be home with our real families, and a nice summer to share with friends and family before we embark into future years. For many of us this means college. Some others are continuing their high school careers. Whatever the case may be, we are better people because of the epic experiences we shared together on this most epic tour to Europe. I want to extend a personal thanks to everyone for all your help and caring, and I wish everyone this best in their future endeavors. As we say in German, "Gesundheit, schoenheit, und viel Gluck!" (To good health, beauty, and lots of luck!), auf wiedersehen...CP

Wittenburg Concert in the Press

2008-06-21T21:12:00.002+02:00

I had this message in my email inbox this morning, from the person who organized our concert in Wittenburg:

=======================================

Dear Brayer,

This was in today’s online version of the MITTELDEUTSCHE ZEITUNG WITTENBERG – a raving article on page 1!!!!

Enjoy!

Andrea

http://www.mz-web.de/artikel?id=1213517451201

All These Places Feel Like Home

2008-06-21T04:44:00.003+02:00

As good as it is to be home, I can't help but look back on the last two weeks and feel more than a little sorry that it's all over. Though the second week of touring was a lot of fun, I know that the first week spent in Bietigheim is what will really stay with me forever.
Saying goodbye to my host family was more difficult than I could have imagined. What could I say? "Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with me?" "Thank you for making sure I saw and experienced the things that make your lives special?" "Thank you for keeping me so well-fed and being so understanding about my preference of water (no bubbles!)?" "Thank you for talking to me, for asking me questions, for caring about what I had to say, for making me feel appreciated and loved?" I tried to sort through these endless sentiments, trying to find one that would really express my gratitude for each and every thing my host family had done to make me feel at home. I finally decided on a simple but heartfelt, "Thank you for... everything."
I have no idea how or why or when it happened, but every last one of us connected with the people of Bietigheim in a way that can't really be explained in words. I think I can speak for all of us when I say that we were all aware that we were a part of something greater than a music exchange. We all fell in love with Bietigheim, with the people, the music, the city. It's an emotion that I think we're all a little afraid to feel, because we know it will never be exactly the same as it was at this point in time. At the same time, though, it's worth it. Because we will forever look back on this time as a time when we were part of something that brought together strangers and made us into lifelong friends. We have all learned lessons in musicianship, friendship, and acceptance. We have all changed for the better.

Arrival @ DGN estimated 1 - 1:15 PM

2008-06-20T12:15:00.000+02:00

B. Teague

Sweet Home Chicago

2008-06-20T11:35:00.000+02:00

Tochdown: 11:27 AM.

Made our connection ...

2008-06-20T09:00:00.000+02:00

... with seconds to spare!

Berlin Airport

2008-06-20T04:00:00.000+02:00

We are checked in, and waiting to board our flight to Munich.

Estimated Arrival @ DGN

2008-06-20T01:15:00.002+02:00

Good evening (or morning!) from Berlin. It's 1:00 AM here, and in just two hours we will load the buses for our journey home. It's raining hard outside (the first time in over a week we've had any rain). Our guide said tonight, as we returned from the Berlin Symphony Orchestra concert, "Berlin is crying because you are leaving."

If all connections are smooth, and flights are on schedule, we arrive at O'Hare at 11:40 AM. We anticipate it will be 1 PM before we clear US Customs and load our buses. My best guess is that we'll arrive at North High (Prince St.) between 1:30 and 2:00 PM.

I trust families can track our flight status from the Blog. If we are late landing, tack on that extra time to our 1:30 expected arrival.

A request: Mrs. DePeder and several helpful volunteers will be in the lobby of the Prince St. Circle with two large posters of the Wittenberg concert poster. We would like every band member to sign BOTH posters before they depart the North campus. The posters will ultimately be framed, with one hung at North and one hung at South. In all the excitement of arriving home, students could easily forget to walk into the building and sign the posters. Would you please remind them?! This will be the only opportunity for signing the posters. Many thanks for your help.

Your students have been tremendous ambassadors over the past two weeks. Our faculty is very proud of them, and you should be as well.

See you soon,

Brayer Teague

Final Thoughts

2008-06-19T23:31:00.000+02:00

Hello! Or rather goodbye...

It is our last night in Germany and while all of us will be sad to go, we are at the same time ready to leave. As tiredness has started to kick in, our minds have drifted more and more to the things and people we miss. The top of the list right now is torn between family, friends, home-cooked meals and shower heads that are actually mounted on the wall.

I think I speak for all of us when I say that these two weeks have been one amazing and unforgettable experience after another. The people, the music, and the rich history have combined to give all of us memories and friends we will have for the rest of our lives. Thank you to all parents, band directors, and others that made this trip a reality. We all owe you so much that my words cannot be adequate. Thank you from the bottom of my heart - your hard work is appreciated.

Much love from Deutschland and congrats to the futball team for making it into the semifinals! We will see you tomorrow!

The Times They Are A Changin'

2008-06-19T17:28:00.001+02:00

Ok... Here's a confession for all of you... In high school, I was not the best Social Studies/History student in the world. I was OK. I did my homework, did well on tests and such, but was much more interested in my music classes.

Go figure.

So now, here I am a music teacher with the opportunity to share these incredible international experiences with students. I've made music and worked with our students in Ireland, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland, and France. And each and everytime, as cliche as it may sound, those old high school history books come to life. The bus and walking tours are taking us through all those imporant places that we've read about and learned about in school, that for me at least are kind of still in my brain but the details are a bit foggy.

I remember taking those history courses and thinking, "wow, this stuff happened SO long ago." Now, a bit older and a bit wiser (hopefully?) I'm figuring out that things like the Second World War and the Cold War happened pretty recently, all things considered. What's more, I grew up during some really important events in our world history.

To see Dresden coming back to life so gracefully and beautfully - Using the most modern of technology to reconstruct some of the oldest and most ornate buildings I've ever seen. Conciously constructing new buildings in an old style to maintain the integrity of thier historic community. And most of this work has happened in the last 10 years!

To drive through Berlin and see only remenants of the Berlin wall, and again seeing renewal and growth everywhere we go. And in Berlin, just as in Dresden, modern architecture and art is married to the past with incredible results.

The last World War did not simply end and get put away in the history books. We are ALL still living with the results of that tragic and often horrific conflict. The good news is that there are incredible stories of rebirth to be shared world wide! And we can all still be a part of it. Being a part of something like the re-opening of a theater in Wittenberg or encouraging the development of an arts program at the English School in Prague seem small and insignificant right now, but where will those two programs be in five, ten, twenty years and beyond? How many lives will be touched by the simple gesture of sharing our love of music?

I have the pleasure of teaching a popular music history course at North. I've found myself teaching them that the most important thing to learn is not all the specific song titles, artists, dates, and so on. What's much more important is what does it all mean? How does this all connect? How does this affect our music today? And then I realize that I missed the main idea back in those history classes!

Our tour experiences have encouraged me to go back to the library to fill in the gaps in my mental "history" file cabinet. I want all these things to make more sense to me the next time I come back, so I can continue to offer some more insights to our students... and because I'm simply facinated by the the wonderful people and places we've experienced on this journey!

To our families and our students' teachers and North and South - Our students "get it". They asked the right kinds of questions, paid attention to what was around them and always conducted themselves with class and pride in representing themselves, the District 99 community, our state and our nation. Thanks for sharing them with us the last two weeks!

My first post for the blog was sent five minutes before midnight on the day we left. We're getting up in two hours now for our journey home. At least I'm consistent!

Thanks for keeping up with the blog. Looking forward to seeing many of you upon our return in not-too-many hours...

Oh yeah... more pics and video when we get home... and I take a nap. :)

Last day in Berlin

2008-06-19T13:20:00.002+02:00

Today is our last day in Berlin before the group travels back home. Many people are sad to leave and want to stay longer while others are ready for the comforts of home. I (Katharine) am very lucky to be able to stay in Europe for another week and a half as I go to France and meet my family there.
The past few days we have been in Berlin. It is an incredible city, full of culture and history. We took a bus tour and drove past the largest part of the Berlin wall that is still standing. It was very powerful.
Last night we traveled to Wittenberg for our last concert. We played in a small local theater that had once been a Nazi headquarters. The theater is now privately owned and is in the process of trying to regain popularity. It runs solely on donations. Today Mr. Teague told us that District 99 is now going to donate to this theater, which the people were thrilled to hear about. Some women who work at the theater had tears in their eyes when they heard about the donation. It was very touching. The people of Wittenberg were incredibly generous and welcoming. They were very happy to have us there.
Today has been very relaxing. We have free time in Berlin. It´s a very nice way to end the tour. We will see you soon!!

REACHING OUT (The European way)

2008-06-19T09:43:00.004+02:00

There are many things I absolutely adore about Europe. I have mentioned the food in a previous blog. The people are amazing. The food. The historical sights are breathtaking. Did I mention that the food is really, really good? The German way to say this (and I am not making this up) is lecker, lecker. This is prounced “licka, likca.” Again, I am not making this up.

There are also many things about Europe that confuse me. First, the whole bathroom experience here is quite new and unusual. You have to pay for public toilets. Sometimes, there is a machine to take your money, sometimes there is a person to take your money. At the truck stops, you get a bathroom rebate coupon for money off your food purchase. Sort of a “poopon coupon” if you will. Very nice. The lights are on the outside of the bathroom door. Several times during this trip I have entered the bathroom, shut the door, and began to look for the light. No matter how hard I look, the light switch is not there. To illuminate your business, you must first open the door and probe the outer wall with your hand. Fascinating experience, to say the least. Europeans also generally only flush after #2, an environmental notion of which I am really in favor. The flushing mechanisms are different, usually a very, very, very large button on the wall above the toilet. Again, confusing at first, but now I am beginning to “see the light.”

Computer keyboards are a unique experience. While this is being created from an American keyboard, I have sent my children several e-mails that looked like a font titled “caveman.” I have spent at least 45 minutes during the past week searching for the “y” key and for the “@” key. These 45 minutes have been nothing short of pure bliss……

Currently, the EURO CUP is occurring. Games are broadcast every night. Entire cities are stopping to watch TV or listen to the radio to keep track of their national team. People singing songs, loudly and in what resembles a unison pitch, that promote the athletic fervor. This is almost like the Super Bowl happening every other night – it is really pretty cool!

Finally, the money here is really confusing. I have decided that it is all just play money, and that I’ll reconcile with my bank when I return to Downers Grove. In the Czech Republic, the currency is the Cronin. About 1,245.327 Cronins equal one dollar. In Germany, the currency is the Euro. About 2.75 Euros equal one dollar. Don’t even try to get me to go from Cronin to Euro – sort of like transposing alto sax to French horn for me. There have been several times on this trip I have just held out a handful of change and asked the person at the counter to take the proper money. I am on my third wallet since being here, but people seem quite happy when I leave places. Anyway, I have to go to the bathroom right now, so this blog must end. I am looking for my .30 Euros to help meet my needs. In any case, I’ll wash my hand when I am done. I am planning on proposing a new band fund raiser upon our return – with nearly 5,500 kids at in District 99, that is a lot of bathroom money each day……………

Music - a gift in so many ways

2008-06-19T01:29:00.012+02:00

It’s hard to know where to start. I guess I’ll begin by saying I’m totally exhausted tonight. (In a totally ‘wunderbar’ kind of way.) The tired feeling I’m experiencing is not solely tied to the sheer physical exertion of travel/sight-seeing/performance. Rather, as I compose this (speeding down the autobahn on a charter bus from Wittenberg back to Berlin) I think my body is responding to a wonderfully exhilarating performance at the Phoenix Theater of Wittenberg (and related events detailed in this post). Add to this that it was our final performance of the tour, and that it was the final “high school” music performance for many on this tour, and we’re all feeling a bit sentimental tonight.

Aside from our time in Bietigheim with host families, I think today has been my favorite of the tour. So, this will also likely be my longest post of the journey (just skip it now if you like). I also suspect this will be my last post prior to our arrival back in DG. (I’m sure a few concluding posts will trickle in from our Blogging team in the days following our return, so I encourage families to check back – especially for the chance to hear more from students who had little access to blogging technology in the second week.

We began with a visit to the Reichstag (Germany Parliament), which is the equivalent of a stop at the U.S. Capitol Building. Normally, a student tour such as ours would be limited to the standard public tour of the reconstructed dome (which was indeed cool). Here’s a shot of it …

But because of the special exchange relationship we have with the Bietigheim Musikschule, our group experienced a very special meeting with a member of the German Parliament, Herr Harald Leibrecht. Mr. Leibrecht is a representative from Bietigheim, and actually played in their Musikschule’s band when the first exchange to the United States was forged many years ago. It was very exciting to meet him. What a charismatic man. Our meeting at 8:30 AM began with his Chief of Staff, as he was on a plane early this morning from southern Germany back to Berlin. He got off his plane, and was driven quickly back to the Reichstag to meet with us. Mr. Leibrecht, if you are reading this: THANK YOU AGAIN for meeting with our students, and again reinforcing the importance of this international exchange. Following the meeting with Mr. Leibrecht the official photographer “made picture” of the group, and I asked Ben S. if he would please present our official tour polo shirt to Mr. Leibrecht as a thank-you. Ben did a great job. Both pictures follow …

Our tour of Berlin today included the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall. Both are destinations that I have looked forward to visiting for many years (especially since ’89 when The Wall fell). The visit again confirmed for me that you cannot truly appreciate history by only reading about it in books. In the upper left hand corner of this picture you might be able to make out some writing that several of the students took note of during the tour. It read: "Maybe someday we will be together." I think that one thought, frozen in time, was meaningful for our students who have really appreciated the connections forged these past two weeks in Germany.

After a quick stop for lunch our buses proceeded to Wittenberg, where we visited the church where Martin Luther is buried. Our local guide – an English teacher originally from Iowa – was very easy to understand! Yet again, another incredible encounter with history. Here’s a shot of the church where Luther preached and is buried. The bell tower is inscribed with the phrase “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” (but of course in German).

Our students played so musically and with such passion and energy tonight. The theater was very special. Having been constructed in the 1920s, the building was acquired by the Third Reich during Hitler’s rule, and was converted to the headquarters of the Nazi party. Later the German Democratic Republic took control of the building, and it became a state-run theater, producing opera and classical music for the area. In the 80s, the funding stream for the arts was depleted, and the theater fell on very hard times. Just recently (about three years ago) an American couple bought the theater at auction, and has opened it up as a private theater with hopes of improving cultural offerings in the city. This is a proud city, but one that is dealing with hard economic times (10-12% unemployment currently). There’s not a lot of money for the arts, but it is so exciting to see this beautiful old theater being reinvented with an eye to the future. The owners, and many from the town, came out to hear our concert tonight. It was a ticked event, and was a sell-out. I think our students felt like musical super-stars tonight. Loud applause greeted both the concert band and the jazz band, and they cheered for multiple encores. Cory P. did a great job introducing each piece in German, and they really appreciated his smooth use of the language. In fact, near the end of the concert, the coordinator of the event asked Cory to return to the stage where the audience again applauded his efforts to connect our students with the German audience. Here are some shots of the concert …

While the concert band was doing a sound-check on stage tonight, Mr. Williams pointed out to me a wall of the theater lobby that recognized patrons who have supported the ongoing renovation of the theater through financial contributions. We jointly agreed that it seemed very appropriate – given the warm reception we felt today from Wittenberg (and those associated with the theater) – that we as a Fine Arts program make a contribution. So, as we invited the owner of the theater, and her colleague who had coordinated the concert onto the stage for the sharing of our tour shirt, we surprised the audience by announcing that the District 99 Honors Band would pledge a 500 Euro contribution toward the restoration of the theater. I have to tell you, I will NEVER forget the reaction of the audience. Mr. Williams and I were sure they would be appreciative, but we could not have anticipated the way in which this announcement seemed to literally “take the breath away” from the audience, and the concert coordinator in particular. There was an audible gasp as we offered our financial pledge, and both women had tears in their eyes.

You know, there have been several moments on this tour where I have been acutely reminded how fortunate I am to be an American. How fortunate I am to live within the District 99 community. How many opportunities our children/students have that get taken for granted. (Our hotel in Prague was no ‘Holiday Inn’ … but I’m actually really grateful that our students had the opportunity to live in a hotel that was once a communist house … and realize how fortunate they are to be free.) Tonight, as we shared our music with our final European audience – an audience that is yearning for the arts to return in a more prominent way to their small corner of the world – it felt really, really good to give.

One final word tonight: we had the good fortune to meet a DGN Band Alumnus today in Berlin. Karla Gutzke, a 2006 North High graduate, is studying this year in Berlin as a part of an exchange in consort with the University of Illinois. Karla traveled on the tour to Germany/Austria with us in the summer of 2005, and it was so much fun to see her today. Before we left for Europe, Karla helped Mr. Miller with many of the translations we needed to coordinate for the trip (concert announcements, etc.). Thanks Karla, and enjoy the rest of your stay in Berlin! Thanks for coming to our concert in Wittenberg.

IN THE MIDST OF HISTORY

2008-06-18T06:44:00.004+02:00

Guten morgen:

We are back in Germany - it almost feels like home! We are visiting places that I've only read about in books or seen in photos. Reading about Terazin is one thing - experiencing Terazin first-hand is an entirely different experience. The two photos above provide only a minimal representation of the effect of visiting this haunting place.

My father flew in the Berlin Airlift. I am standing in Berlin right now wondering where he landed, where he walked. I have never had history effect me on a personal level prior to this experience. Yesterday, we visited the door in Wittenburg where the Reformation began. I was walking in the dust of Martin Luther, one of the greatest theological thinkers ever. Begin amist historically relevant places that are personally striking is moving me in ways that mere words are unable to convey.

Thanks for reading -

Glenn Williams

Touring in Dresden - arrival in Berlin

2008-06-17T21:31:00.005+02:00

We said good-bye to the Chezk Republic today and headed west and north to Berlin.

Mid morning: Stop at the Teresienstaldt Memorial, where our students had the opportunity to pay their respects to the thousands who lost their lives in this region during the Holocaust.

Mid day: Our primary touring stop today was Dresden. Oh my, what a beautiful city! I have studied the history of Dresden (specifically related to a composition by Daniel Bukivich: Symphony No. 1 - In Memoriam Dresden, which depicts the Allied bombing at the end of WWII and the firestorm that destroyed/leveled the city). To see the reconstruction that has taken place in the past decade (since the reunification of Germany) was absolutely astounding.

Evening: Arrival and check-in at Hotel Kolumbus in Berlin. Great dinner. Looking forward to a final two days of sightseeing in Berlin - and our final concert in Wittenburg tomorrow evening.

Prague.... hmmm

2008-06-17T21:28:00.007+02:00

Leaving our host families was depressing to say the least, and I can say that I was a little homesick for my German family. The host families were so sad to see us go that some of the kids held a sit-down protest. Yes! they actually sat in front of the buses to stop them from leaving. When we got to Prague, the feeling was worse because the Hotel Dum mattresses were not as comfortable as our host family. But that was only a minor thing. The city of Prague was beautiful. It was so cool to experience the city and its shops. A lot of the shops were touristy, but the street vendors were the best. I had my first experience in haggling prices. It was a successful trip. One of the most bizarre things were the Czech currency called Crowns. The exchange rate from yesterday was around 16 crows per US dollars. I felt rich! The food at the restaurant was pretty good especially the nonalcoholic eggnog filled ho-hos (yum!). Well we are in Berlin now, and everyone seems happy to be back in Germany. I got a message from my host family that says they miss me and to have fun on the rest of the trip! By the way, Germany won their fußball match yesterday 1-0!

Ciao for now

Ben Tullis

(photos added to post - B. Teague)

Caitlyn Reports on Prague!

2008-06-17T20:21:00.002+02:00

Sorry I haven't posted sooner...the computer service in Prague was costly and not very good. So...here is everything that has happened since I last posted.

Friday: We spent the morning at the school in Bietigheim, where the jazz band held a concert for the students there. In the afternoon, my host family took us to an indoor water park in Bietigheim that had a whirlpool and a water slide. Then we had our concert in Freudental, which seemed to go very well.

Saturday: Yay for long bus rides! We made a stop in Pilzen, whose main feature is a giant brewery that makes one of the more famous beers in the world. We had lunch there, went on a tour, and I bought my dad a present for Father's day. Then we went to Prague, and went to a restaurant called Koliba. I had sauerkraut and LIKED IT! Our hotel was very nice, because we all had separate beds and an AWESOME view of the city from our window.

Sunday: Today was mainly a touring day...we started out by going to Vysoka, the town where composer Antonin Dvorak used to stay. It was SO PRETTY, especially the Rusalka (Mermaid) Lake! Afterwards, we made a stop in Prague's Old Town, where we had lunch. My group found a restaurant that sold chicken gyros for a pretty cheap price...which was helpful, because I then had to buy a disposable camera for 500 Czech crowns. In the afternoon, we went to Prague Castle, and go to visit Saint Vitus Cathedral. I really wish that I'd been able to take more pictures, because the cathedral was so beautiful! There were so many intricate stained glass windows and side rooms and...I wish that we'd had more time there, since the visiting time ended while we were still in there. Afterwards, we walked down a very large hill and went down to the Jewish Quarter, where we saw a lot of old synagogues and a Jewish cemetery that was so small, the citizens used to bury their dead in layers of ground and build the head stones up from underneath! Then we had dinner at Kolliba again -- fairly uneventful, except that the restaurant accidentally served liquor in our desert. (I think the liquor was cooked, though, so there was no alcohol in it.)

Monday: We made a quick stop at a Mozart museum in the city. The exhibition hall was small, but it had beautiful vintage instruments and there was a nice garden in the back. We went to the English International School -- I think it was for British children -- and had a concert there. Afterwards, one of the administrators told us about how the school had been thinking about adding its own music program, and that our concert had showed them how important such a program would be. SWEET! We then drove back to the Old Town to do some souvenir shopping. I bought this tan pashminka (Indian-made cashmere scarf) from a shop, and some new earrings. We had Kolliba for dinner again, but took take-out instead. I think it was some kind of fried pork sandwich, but I didn't eat that much of it because my group had gone to a Subway earlier in the day.

Today: Sadly, the tour guide we've traveled with in Prague had to stay behind and work with another group...our new tour guide came with us to Terezin, a Czech town that was used as a concentration camp in World War II. The main attraction was a cemetery where the people who died at the concentration camp were buried...it was very reverent, and beautiful. We went to Dresden for lunch and a walking tour. The group I went with for lunch found a hot dog stand where the food was good and extremely cheap! After Dresden, it was a long drive here to our hotel in Berlin. We have bunk beds at this hotel, and eight people (in two bedrooms) have to share two bathrooms...okaaay. However, the buffet dinner they served us was superb!

I hope that's everything...it was a lengthy time away from the computer! I can't wait to start touring in Berlin tomorrow!

Sharing Music

2008-06-16T14:02:00.005+02:00

This afternoon we had the wonderful opportunity to share our music with students of all ages at the English International School of Prague. Thank you to Mr. David Forrest (Music Director), Mr. Phillip Keech (Asst. Principal) and Mr. Adam Stewart (Auditorium Supervisor) for everything they did to facilitate our stay. From the moment we walked in the doors of this beautiful school we felt welcome! And a thank you as well to Principal Paul Brewster for lunch!

The youngest students of the school did not come to the concert (the teachers were afraid the music might be too loud for them). So we took the music to them! Thanks to the quick thinking of Mr. Williams, an "Instrument Petting Zoo" was quickly coordinated, and we had several students demonstrating instruments to the youngest of the school. I think our students got a BIG kick out of it, and the laughter and smiles of the students here in Prague was an indication that they really enjoyed it.

Ah, Kids...

2008-06-16T13:29:00.004+02:00

Yesterday was Fathers Day. Maybe one of the hardest days of the trip for me, actually... We're having a great time, of course, but being away from my daughter for over a week is the longest I've ever been away from her. Not being able to video conference with her as I was in Bi-Bi made it frustrating, taking 10 minutes to figure out how to make my calling card work in the Old Town section of Prague just about put me over the edge... At least I could hear her voice for a minute or two! (Look at me taking technology for granted... not so many years ago a phone call wasn't even a sure thing!)

Today I'm blogging to you from the English International School of Prague. I peered into the gymnasium and saw a little blonde girl with pig-tails doing the shuttle run. That's probably exactly what my daughter will look like in just a few more years. Then, during lunch we noticed the art projects based on the book, The Rainbow Fish, one of the favorites in her library. Even though I can't be with Sydney, this trip keeps sending me reminders (like I need to be reminded)!

Lesson learned? Kids are kids. They have the same joy for life, same imagination, same energy, same love to share... all over the world. Parents are parents. I've seen parents here and in Germany dealing with the same joys and challenges we do at home (although some of their strollers are MUCH cooler than our...)

So... Parents of our band students - Your students DO miss you too. They talk about home and you in the middle of all the other "oos" and "ahs". (They won't admit it, but they do). I also imagine I'll feel just like you when I send my future student(s) off on a trip without me...

Ok, off to do our concert for the students. We're playing our "lighter" stuff... except for Godzilla... Hope that doesn't scare the little ones. It's a little tougher than The Rainbow Fish.

FOUR THOUSAND WORDS

2008-06-16T12:27:00.008+02:00

Views of Prague from yesterday. Nuff said.

Glenn Williams

THE REAL INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE

2008-06-16T12:21:00.003+02:00

The following post does not represent the thoughts or beliefs of every student, director or chaperone on the District 99 European Tour.

I am, and always have been, an omnivore. I don't just like any food, I like all food. Even as a musician, I wonder to what level does food connect us all. It is truly the real international language.

The above photograph shows what is available for a breakfast choice at our deluxe accomodations in Praga. I am truly in my happy place - little mini-hot dogs and various types of cheeses are legal food for breakfast. I love this place!!!!!!!

More later,

Glenn Williams

Welcome to Prague!

2008-06-15T22:07:00.001+02:00

Thanks to Jackie H for letting me use her phone to connect to the internet!
We had our first day of touring Prague and it was quite the adventure. Both tour guides on our buses are very sweet, informative, and extremely chatty. The city itself is a study in contrasts. There is a lot of beautiful architecture and at the same time many of the same pretty buildings are covered in spraypaint and other forms of vandalism. We didn't have much time to shop, but the food was approved of by students and directors alike.
The tour today started at Antonin Dvorak's summer home/museum where we learned about his music and his life. We also got to see Prague Castle and the original Jewish Ghetto - the area of the city that all Jews living in Prague had to live inside under the Empress Maria Theresa. We finished with dinner at a Czech restaurant and had a bit of a dessert adventure.
The hotel is different than what we are used to in the US, but is overall a lot better than many people were expecting.
I would like to end with a shoutout to all fathers out there - especially those with children on the trip. Enjoy your day!

Picture of the Day

2008-06-15T22:00:00.000+02:00

Kyle S. and a new friend near the Dvorak museum this morning.

"Photo Ops" Abound

2008-06-15T21:30:00.000+02:00

Today was a wonderful day for photos, and I think our students and staff took full advantage. Mr. Wilson told me at dinner that he took over 600 today alone.

This us my first time in Prague, and I find it to be an absolutely fascinating mixture of culture. The beautiful architecture of the old city stands in stark contrast to more modern (and modest) buildings that remind us that it wasn't very long ago that this area was under
communist rule.

Cathedral of Prague Castle

2008-06-15T14:00:00.000+02:00

Prague - Old City Center

2008-06-15T12:30:00.000+02:00

We have just finished lunch in the historic city center, and are on
our way to the Prague Castle.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T06:00:00.000+02:00

This post goes out to all the "Dads" back home. Kristen and I did an iChat with our children from our Bietigheim host family's house on Friday night. Because they didn't know if we would have Net access in Prague, they shared a card with me 'virtually.' We send our warmest wishes for a Happy Father's Day to all of the fathers of students on tour with us!

We are in Prague

2008-06-14T23:00:00.000+02:00

A quick update: we have arrived in Prague, and checked into our hotel.

Our day has been one of transitions as we said good-bye to our amazing host families. I so wish I had a computer Net connection tonight so I could post pictures from our Bietogheim send-off. It was amazing and emotional. More later ...

I'm posting from my phone tonight. I suspect student posts will fall off considerably this week as technology is not nearly as easy to find.

JOY IN FREUDENTAL

2008-06-14T07:06:00.004+02:00

Guten morgen:

This post is directed to parents reading the blog. A random audience goer on Tuesday night. A bus driver. The mayor last night. Multiple parents involved in the homestays here in Bi-Bi. This is just a short list of the people who have shared with me that your students are nothing short of SUPERSTARS, both on and off the concert stage. Your children are being ambassadors to an amazing extent. Their wonderful actions are speaking so loudly, words are not needed.

This photo of Rania E. singing last night presents the emotion and feeling of the concert last night far better than these meager words. Enjoy.

Tschus,

Glenn Williams

Thank you to our Bietigheim hosts!

2008-06-14T06:55:00.004+02:00

Dear wonderful host families:

I know I speak for our entire band when I say how much we appreciate all you have done for us over the past week. Staying with you in Bietigheim-Bissingen (and surrounding communities) has been a truly amazing experience. You have welcomed us into your beautiful homes with open arms. You have provided an appreciative and enthusiastic audience for our student musicians. Most importantly, you have reinforced for us all that - despite the distance between our countries - we are all very similar, and all seek a common peace in the world.

Today is filled with a certain sense of sadness, as we must say 'good-bye.' But I think that sadness is a sign that the exchange was very successful, and that all of our students have had a wonderful time here in Germany. We hope we have been good guests.

We truly value your friendship, and look forward to extending open arms to the student musicians of the Musikschule many times over in future years. We are honored and humbled by the opportunity to participate in this unique exchange.

Danke!

I left my heart in Heidleberg (or Sachseheim)

2008-06-13T22:26:00.003+02:00

I cannot believe that I have to leave my host family tomorrow morning. They have become such an amazing part of my life and I feel incomplete without them. My sister, Mirja, is one of the nicest, funniest people I have ever met. My mother is so kind and caring and she always talks to me even when it is hard to speak in English. My father is always helpful and is very funny. When we went to Hieldleberg yesterday, my mother told me there is a song that says, ``I left my heart in Hieldleberg.´´ And now that I have been with my family for several days, I feel that I am leaving part of my heart in Sachseheim, where they live. I have made so many new friendships and strengthened others from last year. Tomorrow morning will be very sad for me. I have been on two other international trips with school, and I have noticed that on these trips I always remember things that are different between my life at home and my life abroad. But this week I really realized that we are not different at all. Sure, there are little differences between Mirja´s life in Germany and my life in the US, but at the core, we are the same. I am very comforted by this thought. Somehow even though we live on two different continents, we are the same.

On new and old friendships and leaving home

2008-06-13T17:23:00.005+02:00

So when I first left home last Saturday, I was really unsure of the whole idea of staying a week in another persons house. It was strange to think that for a whole week, I would for all intents and purposes have a new family. I initially thought that it would be awkward and that I would miss my home and my family. And while I have missed my home and family, my (host) family here in Germany has been extraordinary. I have felt like I belong from the moment I first crossed the threshold into their house. From everything to laundry to planning events, they have been kind and helpful, and it has really helped me to see what life in Germany is like. Viktor (my host brother) has also introduced me to various German fußball (soccer for all the Americans) songs.

Throughout the the trip I have seen many old friendships that have become stronger, but the thing that is the coolest for me is the new friendships that have formed across North and South. I have met people with interests similar to mine, even within the flute section! I have also seen sections become closer and play better just because of the experience of being in Germany.

As a final thought, the first Jazz Concert today was amazing and the crowd was even more excited than at the Band Concert. Well for now I will have to go and prepare for tonights concert and pack for tomorrow. I am sad to be leaving my host family, and would like to spend more time here. Tomorrow we leave for the Czech Republic. Peace All.

A weeks reflections...

2008-06-13T16:13:00.005+02:00

Everything I have to say about the places we've visited so far, just restates what others have been saying in their blogs. This place is amazing in everyway!

This trip is really something that I'm going to remember for the rest of my life.

I know I'm going to have plenty of stories by the time the trip is done. I already have several handfuls! Like hearing kids speak with a slight German accent or while sitting in the park playing the HaHa game and German civilians walking by giving us a few weird looks. Or someone talking to us in German and then we have to explain we don't understand or trying new food or just stories about the host family or things that teenagers do.

The places are so beautiful and even this little town is great. I love just going for walks around the house and seeing the houses and the gardens that every single one has. It's so different from back home but I'm loving every minute of it.

I'm also going to remember all the people I've met too. Not only my magnificent host family, who have taken care of me this past week and have been so kind to me and wonderful in everyway, but also the North kids. Coming into this, I thought we were going to be separate. The South kids and the North kids...but that's not true at all. We Are The District 99 Honors Band. We've taken care of each other during this trip and will continue to do so. I know everyone is thinking the same thing as I am when I say to all of you back home that you don't have to worry about your world traveler here in Germany because we've got each other's back! We're more than a band...we're a big, happy, hilarious band family!

ON TOP OF THE WORLD

2008-06-13T15:23:00.006+02:00

Guten tag:

Forgive my silent voice in the last few days - the pace has been wonderfully frenetic. I left my laptop at in Downers Grove for my kids to use while we are in Germay. There are times I don't miss it at all, and there are times I wish it was here. Alas, I forge ahead on a German keyboard!

The photo above is a panorama view from the top of the castle in Heidelberg. I hope it is worth 1,000 words for those of you experiencing our trip through the blog. Being here is still so surreal for me. Terri W. (my wife) and I keep thinking that eventually we will walk to the parking lot and return home or to our hotel. I have to remind myself this is not Walt Disney World, but a real town with real people.

To me, the people are the essence of this exchange. I watch our students learn that people are people no matter where they live. As people, we are designed to be in community with one another. This exchange allows that sense of community to thrive across cultures and across generations. It is remarkable to experience first hand.

The post-blog photo is Terri W. on the square in Stuggart - again, the photo tells far more on the spirit of the exchange and of the trip that I could ever hope to write - especially on this German keyboard!

Tschus,

Glenn Williams

On German Food

2008-06-13T14:53:00.004+02:00

I should not speak for everyone, lest I spark an argumentative flame between me and my peers; I will, however, as there is little argument about the changes we've experienced with our pallette and our elasticity of our stomachs. German food is different from American food.

1. Bread and butter is Germany's bread and butter. If you walk down the Habtstraße, and order from one of many restaurants, you may not be hit by this culinary shift, for it's felt more in the home. We experienced the onslaught of bread while eating our packed lunches, which were made by our Gästefamilia. An appropriate example is that of Sara F.'s lunches. She is packed four sandwiches with varying meats and spreads (I've been given a chocolate sandwich on occasion), fruit, chocolate and other snackable items. Her situation may not be shared by all her peers, but what seems to be a universal truth is;

2. Toast. Breakfast is toast. Self-explanitory. Breakfast includes but is not limited to toast. Cereal? Maybe. Apricot-rhubarb jam? Perhaps. Toast? Absolutely.

3. Very little sugar. Most of the sugar you would expect in foods that would contain said ingredient are found in their Cokacola and Orange Fanta, which they go bonkers for, by the way. They even mix the two and sell it as 'Mezzo Mix.' Regardless, sugar is used more as a garnish, much in the same way salt is; it isn't used much. This causes an unwanted, but necessary revelatory shock of flavor. When you bite into strawberry cake, you don't taste the sugar as you would in the States, but rather you taste the strawberries. It's refreshing.

4. Tipping is confusing. Tip too little; you're inconsiderate. Tip too much; you're insulting. My German teacher told me to round up to the nearest Euro. Even with these bits of wisedom I find tipping an arduous and confusing ordeal.

5. Germans love luke-warm water. They do not need their wasser to be ice cold. Most of it is in bottles, which are kept around the house. The water comes in two varieties: stillenwasser und gasswasser. Normal water and bubbley water. Some people find the bubbles a sort of false alarm for soda, and don't like being surprised that they're drinking water with every sip. It's not for everyone.

That is all.

Standing Ovation - First Jazz Concert

2008-06-13T14:01:00.000+02:00

Our District 99 Jazz Ensemble played to a very warm reception at the High School in Bietigheim this morning. The 65 minute set included an encore and was greeted with much applause and a standing ovation. Kudos to our jazz ensemble students for a great performance. A few final hours this afternoon to visit with our families (and pack) before our final regional concert this evening. We say good-bye to Bietigheim tomorrow morning.

Speaking of our departure from Bietigheim, I am anticipating that we might have less frequent posts during "week two" of the tour. I think we will have much less access to technology.

Jazz Concert Video

2008-06-13T14:00:00.003+02:00

An excerpt from "Second Line."

6/12/08 - Pretty Castles and TOO MUCH RAIN

2008-06-12T22:04:00.003+02:00

Hallo...I have the time to post tonight! Yay!

Today was our last sightseeing day in the Bietigheim-Bissingen area. (And I´m spelling it right this time! YAY!) We went to the town of Heidelberg, which is about an hour and a half drive from B-B. Once we were dropped off, we started with a very extensive walking tour around the town. Our tour guide, Eva, was very nice, and her English was very good. She told us a lot of interesting things about the town´s history.

Heidelberg was besieged by several wars in the 1600´s between Protestants and Catholics. A group of Catholic princes tried to convert the mostly Protestant village, but weren´t successful. The citizens built a fountain with a statue of Hercules on it as a symbol of their resilience (they had already survived two wars in fifty years!) and their willingness to take down authority if necessary. Needless to say, the princes moved away after a while.

In World War II, Heidelberg was, by chance, one of very few cities which were not bombed by American forces. The area around the town was so overcast that the planes couldn´t find the city! However, the city was damaged when the German forces blew up the bridges to prevent American entry -- the glass windows on one side of the town cathedral were shattered.

The tour also took us up to the castle...Schlosshof, I think, was the name. The walk up the hill to the castle was not as long as the walk to Neuschwanstein, but the hill was so steep that it didn´t matter! We were glad to get to the top and see how the different princes that lived in Heidelberg affected the castle´s construction. We also got a chance to see a VERY BIG wine keg. It could supposedly hold about 58 thousand gallons of wine, but the pressure on the barrel was so great that they could only fill it three times before it started leaking!

We had an hour to wander around in groups afterward. I managed to get a gift for my dad for Father´s Day -- hi Dad! The shop where I bought my dad´s gift also had a dispenser with Pokemon toys in it, so I used the extra euro of change to get one. (I was originally going to get a wooden rapier from another shop, so I think the Pokemon was a slightly better choice.)

The soccer game this past evening was...interesting. I got very involved in the game, moreso than I expected. However, Germany lost to Croatia. We had a party afterwards, but had to move it into a banquet hall-type building. It was for a good reason...it was raining REALLY hard!

That´s all I can really say...oh, wait! Go watch the video at the end of Mr. Miller´s blog post. I was sitting a few seats from the people who were performing in that video...it was HILARIOUS. Mr. Williams had to come back and keep the kids from getting too rowdy!

Anyway...tomorrow we attend school with the German kids and have our final concert in Bietigheim! (Actually, the final concert is being held in Freudental, where I´m staying -- lucky!) Wish us luck at concert number 2!

Many Thoughts From the Past Few Days...

2008-06-12T18:05:00.007+02:00

Hello friends! Sorry for the not-so-creative title. We've been very busy, and thus I've been unable to post for awhile. This also has created a jumble of thoughts to write about...

First - Students continue to be great in all aspects of the tour. I've really enjoyed continuing to work with the North High students of course, and have been really really excited to get to know my new South High students for this tour! As I wrote that last sentence I realized something else - I very rarely think of them as North or South students... they have bonded to become one very talented, very funny (see end of post), very wonderful group of students. It's like they've been together for years!!

Second - Our concert the other night - Because of the technical demands of Godzilla, and the needs of setting up an 80+ piece concert band on a stage, I had the opportunity to work with Peter, the Auditorium Master of the concert hall. I serve as the Auditorium Manager at North High, a position that I enjoy very much (although I really want to go for a title change now!). I like having the opportunity to create a great performance space for the many school, community and professional groups that use the Auditorium at North. I also have been known to be a little sensitive when a group requests something out of the ordinary (like a projector for a Godzilla presentation). Add to that the stress of such a large group getting set up on stage, rolling in cases and equipment, and, oh yeah, we would REALLY like to have the grand piano please and not the small digital piano you set up already... well, you get the idea.

But here's the great thing... While Peter was initially a bit nervous and short about the whole thing, all it took was taking the opportunity to reach out to him a bit. Taking an interest in what he does, showing appreciation for what he was doing for us, being careful to follow his instructions. He soon started going out of his way to make sure EVERYTHING was perfect. And Peter - It was! It was a pleasure working with him - an Aud. Master/Manager bonding moment. And like so many other moments on the trip, it showed that while we have many differences between Germany and US, we have MANY MANY more similarities!

(additional note on the above) Aud. Crew Tech. Friends - Peter was very very proud of his new light board. the ETC Ion console. It just came out last year from the same people who brought us the Congo Jr. It looks very similiar but uses a different philosophy of lighting design. Both boards are really really great. This one just works differently than ours (think Mac vs. Windows). Peter has now had the board for 26 days. He's been counting! :)

Third - Our students (and staff) were very moved by the resounding applause and appreciation shown at our concert. My hope is that our students permanently record that moment in their brains and remember it as they continue their lives as consumers of music. I hope they go home and go out to live music concerts of all kinds and show that same kind of appreciation for music (and for all art, for that matter). That is definitely something we can learn from our German friends!

Fourth - The blending and appreciation of old and new. Throughout our tour we have had the pleasure to see very very old archtecture and artwork (the castles, the old town section of Bietigheim-Bissingen) as well as very new (the Mercedes-Benz Museum) and a great combination of the two. The picture below is of the horse sculpture found just down the street from the Musikschule in B-B (the one that is in a 700 year old(ish) castle!)

Finally - Oh yeah, the humor... The video at the bottom of this post is courtesy of several students who put on a multi-act performance for us in the second bus, doing all sort of fun choreography, syncronized dances, "whack-a-mole" impressions, and so on... This is an oldie but a goodie... Mr. Turkey!

I Am Okay

2008-06-12T17:18:00.003+02:00

This is supplementary post, to verify that I am in fact alive and in the vacinity of a working computer. Another post will follow as soon as I adapt to the GÄrmanz kezbÖyrd.

Benz

2008-06-11T23:54:00.005+02:00

The Mercedes-Benz Museum is an incredible piece of architecture, and a stunning recounting of 20th Century history. I think our students really enjoyed having the chance to tour the museum. Thank you to Mr. Schiffer for providing this wonderful opportunity today!

Report on Tuesday (6/10) and Wednesday (6/11)

2008-06-11T22:08:00.003+02:00

Once again, outside circumstances have kept me from posting last night -- in this case, it was simply too late to say anything coherently! However, yesterday was our sightseeing day in Bietingheim-Bissingen. We took a walking tour down the main street; we got to see several interesting statues, the entrance to a Japanese garden, and a monument for all the particularly high floods they´ve had in this town! (The town has two rivers running through it, with another one a few kilometers away. If it rains too much, the city floods very easily.) We got to meet with the mayor of the town -- he spoke English very well -- and the town gave us hats as souvenirs. (Iäve been wearing mine sightseeing -- but more on THAT later.) After lunch -- and lots of ice cream -- we rehearsed and performed our concert at the Kronenzentrum. My host family, whom I had a second dinner with after the concert, said they liked Godzilla Eats Las Vegas the most.

Earlier today, we went to Stuttgart - the equivalent of Chicago in this area. We went to the Mercedes Beny museum, where they had several different historical cars on exhibit. I took pictures, but I´m afraid they won´t come out right. We had about an hour left after touring the exhibits, so I joined Jennifer D., Suzanne S., and several of their friends in playing Mow (a card game) and going to the gift shop. The whole group walked past the soccer stadium and bought things at the gift shop there.

The buses picked us up from the stadium and took us downtown, where we spent the rest of the afternoon. I stuck with the Mow group...we found this pretty large mall that we hung out in for an hour and a half. We had ice cream again...I am such a sucker. Then we went walking down the street and found a relatively inexpensive jewelry store. Then we went back, the buses picked us up...and we went to the soccer game! Iäm sure youäll have heard about it from the other students. I actually played at the start of the second half, but I haven´t played in years and I couldn´t get to the ball in time. We had curry for dinner tonight -- another first for me! -- and...now we´re going to bed! Tomorrow is our last day of sightseeing, in the town of Heidelberg. I´m looking forward to it!

June 11 Bietigheim-Bissingen Newspaper

2008-06-11T19:48:00.003+02:00

Here, members of the Band are pictured with the Mayor of Bietigheim-Bissingen (center).

Click on the picture above to see a larger image.

Soccer, Stuttgart, Concerts and more

2008-06-11T19:39:00.007+02:00

Picture 1 (Top): the pope mobile
Picture 2 (Bottom): Kate B. and Andrew K. in the Race simulator

Hello all,

So yesterday was our first concert and it was absolutely amazing! We played our set and the crowd loved it. They clapped so much that we just had to play an encore. The audience really like Godzilla Eats Las Vegas and The White Rose March. Throughout the March, people clapped and the lightng technician even made the lights dance and change color! There was even reports of some people jumping up and down! Today, we traveled to Stuttgart to visit the Mercedes-Benz mueum which was alot of fun. I especially liked getting to see the pope-mobile (yes it is actually called the pope-mobile) and going into the race simulation. It was so much fun. It had actuall footage from races that a Mercedes won, and it moved the capsule and the steering wheel to match the footage. Oh, it was so much fun! Unhappily though, we lost our second soccer match against the Germans. But I guess it is more about the experience instead of the outcome. It was still a great experience to represent our country in an international soccer match. And even though we were two seperate teams and countries, the soccer game and the exchange has brought us closer together than most global citizens. Tonight we are going to go out and have some more fun. I will have to tell you more later!

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL!!!

2008-06-11T19:07:00.009+02:00

The futball/soccer game today was a bit of a disappointment - we ended up losing 11-1. Kudos, however, to Kyle L for scoring our only goal! It was hard fought on both sides, and I was glad to see even afterwards people from both teams interacting with each other and just having a good time kicking the ball around. That's what this trip is all about anyway - not just winning or losing.

Stuttgart was, like most everything else here, very old and very beautiful. The Mercedes-Benz Museum was very interesting and we were able to learn about everything from the first power engine, to decorated buses in Buenos Aires, to truck racing with the aid of our audio headsets. Much shopping was to be had by some, others just wandered around the town enjoying the old building and the people watching. I am also happy to report that everyone was where they were supposed to be at the correct times today...and some were even early!

Quite a few different groups are planning to go to the discotheque tonight - hopefully someone who does will be able to report on that later. I, on the other hand, am going with my German friend Nici to a party that her English class is having. She said she has a friend that spent a year in America who is going to be there tonight and really wants to meet me. Hopefully I don't disappoint!

A travling we will go!

2008-06-11T19:05:00.007+02:00

What a great adventure, here it is Wednesday and I just can't believe how fast this week is going. As we go place after place (castles too) I have discovered that the one thing that is consistent in our ever changing atmosphere are the bus rides. The bus rides themselves are a truly unique aspect of this wonderful trip. I remember the first bus ride in Germany we all sat with the friends we knew from our school, and that was all there was no real change in our social horizon. However all of that is starting to change as I have seen great new friendships being formed between students from both North and South.

Along with the new and growing friendships are some awkward band moments needed to create them. I have seen and been apart of several of these moments, the range from creating random card games that catch on like wild fires to a "bat cave" being created in the back of the bus, and that is just a few. The bat cave is just one part of the uniqueness, so many more random conversations and weired storying tell are what also make up the wonderful traveling hours. Well, I have to get dressed for the disco tech I will write later!
~Jennifer Dust

High Atop Bietigheim

2008-06-11T06:35:00.004+02:00

The Concert Day!

2008-06-10T23:20:00.002+02:00

Today was the day of our first concert! I was anxiously awaiting this all day as we toured the beautiful city of Bietigheim-Bissengen. The city has a lot of history, and I think that we only got to experience part of it. I could sense that the German people have a great sense of tradition and history that is unlike many. The town has a lot of cool architecture. There are many different sculptures, buildings, and fountains that make for an interesting mix of new and old. One such building is the Musikschule, which we were able to see today. The school is in a renovated castle, and although the outside is older, the inside is very modern. I enjoyed walking through the streets of Bietigheim and being able to hear the sounds of children at their music lessons. When the day had passed, it was time for the concert. I did not feel very nervous before the concert, but I was anxious to see what the reaction would be from the German audience. I was pleased after each piece to see such a huge amount of enthusiasm for us and our music. It was such a rewarding experience. It was very good to know that even though we don#t all speak the same language, we are able to communicate through our most important universal language of music!

I don´t even know where to begin

2008-06-10T22:45:00.003+02:00

We have been in Germany for three days now, but to me it feels like three years. I have done so many activities and met so many new people in my stay in Bietigheim, I feel as though I could write a novel. Since being here, I really do feel that this trip is the chance of a lifetime and I so grateful I could be a part of it. Here are a few great moments from the past two days:
1. My birthday- I turned eighteen on June 9 and on that morning, I came downstairs for breakfast and found my family standing around a cake with candles, singing Happy Birthday to me. It was so sweet. In the evening, we had a party with all my friends at my host, Mirja´s, house. It was so much fun!
2. Downtown Bietigheim- I really enjoyed the tour we took of Bietigheim. I learned so much about the culture and the town. It is very interesting to me because this town is thousands of years old, while Downers Grove is only about 175 years old.
3. Our first concert- Tonight we had our first concert with the Jungendblasorchester, the German band. It was an amazing concert. The audience was incredibly appreciate of the music and gave us several standing ovations. We even played an encore.
4. Talking like the Germans- Ya, ya I speak like the Germans ya. The longer I am here the more I begin to speak (and write) like the Germans speak English. Their accent is so addicting!
I am very excited for the next few days. I know my experiences on this trip will continue to be absolutely amazing! Tschus!

In Germany, Even the Fried Bologna is Good

2008-06-10T22:39:00.003+02:00

Yesterday was another busy day in Biedigheim! We traveled to Neuschwanstein Castle, which was one of the most amazing things I've ever seen, and well worth the strenuous walk up the mountain. Later on, we went to Katharine N.'s host family's house for her 18th birthday. The Germans always say they are ''making a party,'' so when Mirja called to ask if we could come, my host brother said, ''Would you like to go to Mirja's house? They are making a party for your friend!'' We had a nice time, and by the time I finally got to bed after an exhausting day, I realized I wasn't tired anymore! Jet lag is such a strange thing.
Today, we toured downtown Biedigheim. It was interesting to see that such an old city had so many pieces of modern art. The tour guide explained that though at first the people were not very accepting of the modern art, they have come to accept and even appreciate it as a part of their city and its culture.
When I came back to the Schilling's house today, there were even more people to meet. As soon as I walked in the door, a friendly-looking woman rushed towards me, hugging me and saying ''I am Grandma! I am 80 years old! You are very hungry, yes?'' Before I had time to protest, she sat me down in a chair and placed a plate of a foreign item in front of me. I couldn't tell exactly what it was. It was brown and bread-shaped and fresh off the stove. ''You like this?'' she asked. I still wasn't sure what it was but I still said, ''Oh...yes!'' As she watched, I put a forkful in my mouth. I chewed it thoughtfully, trying to identify the familiar and unusual taste. Finally it struck me. Bologna! And it was delicious! Grandma was so happy with me when I finished it all that she kissed me on the cheek and told me to give my own Grandma ''special Grandma greetings from one to the other'' the next time I saw her!

Bietigheim-Bissingen Concert Video

2008-06-10T22:09:00.003+02:00

Congratulations to our students on a very, very fine concert this evening. And many thanks to the wonderful people of Bietigheim-Bissingen for being such a warm and receptive audience four our musicians.

Formal Greetings & Presentations

2008-06-10T16:29:00.004+02:00

This morning, following our city-tour of Bietigheim-Bissingen, our entourage was formally welcomed by Jürgen Kessing, the Oberbürgermeister (Mayor) of the city. Mr. Kessing addressed all of our students, reinforcing the importance of our exchange as a means by which peoples of the world can come together to discover our commonalities. His message was inspiring. Following his remarks, he presented all of us with gifts (I trust you'll probably hear more about this from students in their posts). I, along with Mr. Williams, read aloud a proclamation from Downers Grove Mayor Ronald Sandack, thanking the city of Bietigheim-Bissingen for their hospitality toward our students, and formal inviting the string orchestra and band to return to Downers Grove in 2010 and 2011. A Downers Grove flag was also presented to the city.

After the formal presentations our students were treated to lunch by the Musikschule. The picture above was taken from the third floor of the castle which houses the Musikschule, looking down onto the courtyard where lunch was served.

Owls and Castles and Sheep, Oh My!

2008-06-09T23:34:00.004+02:00

It's only our second full day here in Germany, and I already feel like I don't have enough room to share everything that's happened so far! I arrived at my host family (the Schillings) house yesterday. They have been so wonderful. Michi is my age, Elena is a little younger and also in the orchestra, and David lives at home but is studying at University. Mr. and Mrs. Schilling are so nice; Mr. Schilling is a beekeeper and sells honey. They also have a French exchange student living with them, so there are three languages being spoken in the house right now!
Yesterday, my family took me to an old castle where we saw trained hawks, owls, and eagles perform. It was amazing! I couldn't understand the speaker, and neither could the French exchange student, so Mrs. Schilling had to translate everything he said into French and English! Later on, Michi and David took me to the BallHaus to watch the soccer finals. I was so tired so it was hard to stay awake, but after Germany won, it seemed like everyone was out driving with their horns blasting! It didn't quiet down for hours!

We're Going To Have a Good Time

2008-06-09T23:23:00.003+02:00

As the Beatles wrote:

"They say it's your birthday... you're going to have a good time!"

And I did! It was wonderful to celebrate my birthday with a couple other birthday students, and an anniversary couple in beautiful Germany. Our trip today was fantatic. A great adventure to a very pictureque destination. My very part, however, continues to be the connections that we make with the wonderful families here. Arriving at the Gehlen family's house was truly like coming home. The entire plane ride over I was thinking, "when I get home I'm going to..." Bernd, Elke (his wife), Paul and Christina (their children) were definitely a sight for sore eyes. It has been great to catch up with them and of course to watch at least the first half of what was ultimately a German victory in their first EuroCup match (I fell asleep for the second half)!

So, in short... students are doing great, chaperones are doing great, host families and wonderful!

Looking forward to sharing our music in our first concert of the tour tomorrow. Our students are really going to "wow" the audience I'm sure. I hope they understand the Godzilla thing... :)

Doing Double Duty - Sunday (6/8) and Monday (6/9)

2008-06-09T23:01:00.006+02:00

I apologize for not posting before today...it has been a very busy few days leading up to the trip. I actually tried to post last night, but I couldnät get into the blog..so tonight, I will have to post on the past two days we have been in Germany.

We arrived in Berlin at around 7:30 in the morning, due to a rain delay we had experienced before taking off in Chicago. We actually got through baggage claim in very little time, and rode coach buses down to Bietingheim-Bissingen. (I think I am spelling the name of the town correctly...) We arrived around noon, and met up with our host families. The host family I am staying with is actually quite large. There is Mr. and Mrs. Lowen, the parents, as well as one daughter (age 10), and three borhters, who are 16, 18, and 20 respectively. Their house is in the village of Freudental, and is very nice. Sarah F. and I are sharing a bedroom together.

After we arrived at the Lowen house, the youngest son, Cornelius, took us on a tour of the village with his younger sister. He showed us a street that used to house their Jewish popoulation, as well as the synagogue. He also showed us the village´s church, which is over 800 years old. After the tour of the town, the whole family sat down to lunch together. We had pork, salad, noodles, and sliced tomatoes with mozarella cheese. It all tasted very good!

After lunch, we went down to the town of Ludwigsburg. The town is best known for a very large castle that has a lot of gardens. I was particularly interested in their rose garden. The roses there all had different names, like Shneewittchen (Snow White) and Feuerwerk (Fireworks). I took so many pictures of the roses! Whil we were there, it started raining very hard...we had to huddle under a tree and try to stay dry until the rain let up. Once it did, we left the castle and went to the town square, where Mrs. Lowen bought us Italian ice cream. We then went home, had sausages and cheese for dinner, and went to bed.

Today, the entire band went, as a group, to Neuschwanstein castle. When we first arrived, I mistook another castle in the village for Neuschwanstein...and did not realize that the real castle was half an hour´s walk away! We took a guided tour in English at the castle. We were not allowed to take pictures, though I wish we had been able to. The whole castle was beautiful! My favorite rooms were the throne room, which featured a very detailed depiction of Jesus Christ and various saints, and the dining room, which had a swan theme to it. i decided to buy a stuffed swan in the gift shop as a memento of the trip. I went straight back to the buses after the castle, though some people stopped at a bridge that was relatively nearby. We ended up leaving late from the village because one of our students ended up in the wrong parking lot, but we arrived relatively on time and went home. Dinner tonight was spaghetti with meat sauce. (My mother might be pleased to know that I ate the spaghetti with the sauce today!) Now we are preparing for bed. Tomorrow´s our first concert -- I hope we do well!

"Toto, We're Not In Kansas Anymore"

2008-06-09T21:54:00.007+02:00

BUS UPGRADE: Our students, used to "Yellow Bus" accommodations most of the time, are enjoying the Spillmann 'Travel Lounge' coaches. Any bus made by Mercedes Benz is a big step up!

Others have already posted about our wonderful trip to Neuschwanstein today. I will add (as a point of explanation for those back home following the official itinerary) that a 14 kilometer traffic jam (due to a very early morning accident delayed us considerably as we headed south, and prevented us from visiting the cathedral in Ulm. But our students truly enjoyed Neuschwanstein, and it was a spectacular day. Above, Dave S. poses with a sign warning of a steep path for the trek down to the buses from the castle. (Dave was obviously not phased.)

If you will indulge me for a personal moment of reflection, today Kristen and I celebrated our wedding anniversary. One of our childhood friends, who is following our trip from her home in Missouri, emailed me last night and insisted that I post a picture of Kristen at some point during the tour. So, given that it is a special day for us, this seems like a prime opportunity to be a little bit selfish. As we drove back to Bietigheim this evening I found myself remembering that my "first band trip" with Kristen was back in 1986, when our high school band traveled to Lawrence, Kansas to perform at a regional convention. (Let me tell you: Toto ... we're not in Kansas anymore!) I feel very blessed to be sharing yet another tour with her twenty-two years later. Kristen is a talented teacher in her own right, and I am very fortunate to have her guidance and support on a daily basis.

And speaking of June 9th being a special day: Happy Birthday to Katherine N., Jeanne K., and Mr. Miller!

We look forward to our first concert tomorrow ...

Second Trip to Neuschwanstein...

2008-06-09T21:31:00.002+02:00

Hello, friends and family! Today was a great day. I know that I speak for myself and the whole group when I say that we all had a great time today touring the fairy tale castle of Neuschwanstein. For most on the tour it was their first time visiting this magical location, but it was my second (I took a trip with the DGS German Club in 2006). I think, however, that going for a second time was just as enjoyable as the first time. It was certainly helpful for the chaperones and other students to have someone who knew the area. The castle was very beautiful--I remembered ít well, and perhaps I was able to enjoy it further this time. I would have posted some pictures, but cameras are forbidden inside the castle.

Here at my 'German parent's' home, we are always eating! The garden is huge and always fresh. 100% organic and 200% delicious! I find that I am sleeping very well in a nice comfortable bed. I know that my German has improved even in just one day, and it will continue to do so. I am speaking German probably 90% of the time--sometimes even by accident to my fellow American students! My german teacher would be proud, I'm sure. But now, ''Ich bin sehr müde'' (I am very tired!). Tomorrow we are looking forward to our first concert, which will include the European Premiere of my original composition Hockets and Offbeats, which we played in May back home. Wish us luck; haben Sie eine Gute Nacht (have a good night)! Bis morgen (Till Tomorrow)...CP

Day 2 in Germany

2008-06-09T21:21:00.002+02:00

Today we went to Neuschwanstein, which is in Schwangau. It was a lot of fun. We literally had to climb a miniature mountain to get to the top! We got to see a lot of really nice German scenery too. The view from the castle was really cool! On the way down a few of us stopped to get some ice cream that was cantaloupeflavored! It was very good. There were also a lot of stores that had lots of great items! I'm pretty excited to go take the tour of Bietigheim tomorrow!

IT"S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL

2008-06-09T21:09:00.002+02:00

Today, we drove several hours to southern Germany, in the Alps, to visit a famous castle and bridge. This castle is the inspiration for the Cinderella Castle in both DisneyLand and DisneyWorld. The sheer art and craftsmanship in this castle are breathtaking. We experienced traffic on the way to our destination (Yes, there is traffic in Germany. Yes, it is very organized.) The photograph above is a painted map of our sites today - we saw not only the castle, but a spectacular bridge spanning a stunning gorge. A 30 minute walk uphill brought to mind for everyone the importance of the Physical Education requirement in Illinois! I bought a really cool and unique hat (I am certain you'll see photos of it in the near future.) To me, this trip is a still a fairy tale. The sights and people are truly amazing and inspiring. Tomorrow is our first performance - I expect the sounds to become equally inspiring tomorrow.

Said goodbye to a friend today - one of our home stay hosts lives and teaches photography in Leipzig during the week. I am struck by the depth of the bond that can be created in less than 24 hours when people open their hearts and homes to a guest. This is a major takeaway for me, and, something I am already longing to reciprocate when our German friends return in 2010.

Tschus,

Glenn Williams

Wow...We're in Germany!!!

2008-06-09T20:57:00.003+02:00

Sometimes...I still forget that I'm in another country! It still seems so unreal that I'm here, but I'm so excited! I know that I'm a day late to talk about the plane and such but yesterday was just so much fun, I didn't get time to go onto the computor. After finding our luggage, we headed out to Bietigheim. There I met my host family, whom had stayed with me before and was swallowed into big hugs from her and her mother. I feel so welcomed and happy to be here! I have to admit that I was very nervous to be staying with a family, and didn't know what to except at all. Later we headed to my 'new home' and met the other two sisters, father, and grandmother. While everyone knows a little bit of English, except the grandmother, they speak German for most of the time which has been tough since I don't speak a word of German. But everything has been very good. I'm looking forward to eating more of the amazing food and learning about this culture and town! IT'S SO BEAUTIFUL!!!!!! Even though camera has paid for itself, considering how much I use it, it certainly has on this trip. It has barely left my hand! The town's buildings, churches and land marks are so beautiful! Even though I was ready to fall asleep right as we arrived home, I could resist the urge to go for a walk into the city. While there Selina (my host) recieved an invite to go to the pool. And this pool tramples over Cypher's Cove! It was huge with many pools and nice water! After that, we traveled with the group we collected to the Indoor Beach and played Volleyball and Soccor (which the Germans, sadly, still beat us in). While some had fun playing, others seem to relax and try to catch up on needed sleep!
We traveled home to eat and later went to a nearby soccor viewing bar to watch the game! I'll never forget seeing so many people so excited (nor will the ringing in my ears from blow horns go away...)! It was so much fun! I even got to help the little sister with her English homework when we got home!
It's strange having to be confused about certain things. Speaking English, we always seem to get the easy trail by it being everywhere. But from experience, I know now that that is not the case here all the time. At the Indoor Beach, I (being completely German illiterate) walked straight into a Boy changing room! I'm probably still blushing from that! Luckly no one was there and it wasn't that kind of changing room (more like lockers for shoes) it's something people are giving me grief over! ^^ We've gotten many laughs over that...
Today we traveled to Neuschawanstein Castle! It was so gorgeous and I can understand why Disney's Cinderella Castle was modeled after it! Much to my displeasure, I wasn't able to take pictures of the inside to show you all, but just imagine your perfect golden castle and make it even more beautiful! There where paintings all over of Saints or scenes from plays and operas like Tristan and Isolde with lots of swanns (they were the kings favorite animal) and beautiful handcrafted chairs, beds, and even ceilings and floors! And the view out of every window, was enough to take the breath away from anyone! The views were so magical and gorgeous!
Even the town below the castle was amazing! Lots of shops with souveniors and nice people, understanding of our non German speaking disability and lots of kids treated themselves to the infamous German chocolate and drinks!
The band directors and staff have been so awesome on this trip. They've been fun and understanding and I'm so blessed to be here. The host families have been so kind to everyone and I'm so glad to get the chance to know them and other students from DGN that I didn't know before this. I've made many more friends and I can't wait to get the chance to know more of them as this trip progresses. And lastly, I'm never going to look at Carbonated water the same way again...(for those of you who don't...everything here seems to be carbonated, even juice and water!!!!)

Amazing First Day

2008-06-09T20:45:00.004+02:00

Hello all,

So the first day was amazing. I won't say too much about the plane ride, except that it was nice to sit in the middle of a row with people I didn't know. It was nice to talk to someone that was not on our trip about our trip, and to ask them about their trip (the man on my right was going to India to visit his mom and the people on my left slept the whole way). Anyway, my host family did not all come to pick me up, they sent Viktor to get me because his mom was preparing breakfast and his dad had biked to a farm in the mountains to get asparagas for dinner that night (which consisted of potatoes, asparagas and a little cooked ham all covered in a creamy cheese sauce. It was amazing). Before dinner we went to an indoor beach and played an informal soccer match, U.S. vs. Germany (and JJ J.). The US clamied a victory with a score of 6 to 4. After a short game of Frisbee we were all pretty tired and went home to shower the sand, sweat, and adrenaline from our bodies before dinner. After dinner, Viktor and I met a a few friends at a sports bar to watch the Germany vs. Poland European Cup game. It was really loud and you couldn't help but get swept up in the excitement! After a thrilling victory of 2-0 we drove around town honking the horn and flying the German flag. We were not alone, it seemed like most of Germary was out last night celebrating! I can't wait for the next match on Thursday!

Well talk to you all later!
Auf Wiedersehen

When you wish upon a star...

2008-06-09T20:23:00.006+02:00

What a fun day! Ifound myself spending time in one of the great creations for Walt Disneys Masterpiece, Cinderella. The castle was at the top of a very large hill in which we had to climb, but it was worth it. As I walked through the castle itself so many thoughts of the movie ran through my head, especialy with the ballroom scene, the celling was amazing. It was so much fun getting to see the castle as well as the town that lay at the bottom of the valey. There were many trinkets and wonderfull things to buy within their shops. There was just one thing that I bought there however...Ice Cream! Let me tell you from experience that German ice cream is just down right amazing! It is so thick and creamy,the texte just was perfect almost like a frozen smoothy. I was also pleased about the price, some places it was just 1 euro, which for two really large scoops of fantasic ice cream was trully a treat!

I really want to write so much about our trip but it seems that I am being called away for dinner. So I must say ta ta for now.

~Jennifer

*P.s. Germany won the first soccer game....Yay! (I saw it on tv...mind you it was in german but that just made the game more invigorating!)

Our First Day!

2008-06-08T22:07:00.003+02:00

Today was such a busy day! After we exited the plane, we claimed our baggage, and found our tour bus, we were on our way in no time. Although the jet-lag has started to cath up with us, today's events have been very exciting. The two hour ride to Bietigheim-Bissengen was very picturesque, and though it was slightly reminiscent of home, there were still many differences, and it was such a senic ride. After meeting with my host family, the day seemed to go by pretty fast. We ate lunch, a few of us went to a Beach Volleyball gymnasium, and then a group of us were invited to a barbeque, which was in preparation for the Germany-Poland World Cup game. It was a pretty fun day! I can't wait until we start sight-seeing in the more historical locales!

Germany Adventure Day 1

2008-06-08T21:37:00.004+02:00

Guten Tag! Or maybe it is really more appropriate to say Guten Nacht ~ the time change has left most of us a little out of sorts. Other than that, the first day here has been amazing. All of the families were there to welcome us straight off the buses, so no one felt left out. They seemed so genuinely excited that it helped a lot of us feel more comfortable and less nervous about meeting our new family. Bietinghiem is beautiful - and so historic! The unique architecture and quaint little shops have caused many group members to already start filling up space on their camera's memory cards. My host family has been nothing but kind and welcoming, and have already started trying to fatten me up by feeding me lots of kuchen (cakes). So far, the trip has been an incredible experience - and we've only been here for 24 hours! I can't wait to see what types of adventure, learning, and opportunities for musical and cultural growth await us in the next two weeks! I especially look forward to seeing Neuschwanstein Castle and the Ulm Cathedral tomorrow - the sightseeing, architecure, and history promise an interesting trip. And really, what girl hasn't dreamed about living in the Magic Kingdom's castle - or any castle for that matter! Bye for now...

Arrival in Bietigheim-Bissingen

2008-06-08T21:28:00.004+02:00

Today's arrival in Bietigheim marked the beginning of the fourth tour in which I have participated. As Mr. Miller wrote prior to departure, one of the things I enjoy the most about this exchange is having the chance to observe others who are experiencing the warmth of this country and the people for the first time.

Host families waiting for our students as we arrive in Bietigheim.

Mr. Glenn Williams (new to our District 99 Music Faculty since the last exchange), is greeted and welcomed by Musikschule Director Mr. Reimund Schiffer. Mr. Williams has traveled internationally prior to this trip, but it is his first day in Germany.

Emma S. and Caroline H. meet their host family, who hold signs with their names and a welcome message.

We are here!

2008-06-08T17:53:00.004+02:00

Hello, friends and family. It is so very nice to be back in good old Deutschland. My family that is hosting me recognized me as soon as we got off the bus, Dieter speaks good english, while Maria speaks only German, so I really have the means to practice a lot. For the most part we are only speaking German all the time! Our house is beautiful, with a large garden with fruit, nuts, veggies, and other flowers. It is so nice! I am really enjoying myself. Now I must go join my hosts as we watch Austria play Croatia in Fußball (soccer). Until later...Bis später...CP

Guten Tag!

2008-06-08T17:27:00.003+02:00

Hello and welcome to Germany! It was a long flight, but our group finally made it to Bietigheim. After a 2-hour bus ride from the airport, we reached the school of the German hosts. We were greeted by an enormous crowd of eager German families, ready to take their American students home. My German, Mirja, found me right away. We piled my suitcase in the Audi and went back to her house.
I have stayed with host families in other countries before, but I have never stayed with a family so open and kind as Mirja´s family. Her mother told me right away to make myself at home. It was very sweet of them. I feel very blessed to be in such a loving home. Mirja is so lively and personable. She always makes me smile. Her father is also very nice and he likes to talk about soccer. I have noticed many German flags on cars and buildings because this week is full of European soccer games. Everyone comes out to watch the game and cheer on their country. Today we had free time with our host families, so I went with Mirja, and her friend, Natalie, and her two American students, Cassie and Marissa to a castle called Ludwigsburg. We got a great tour from an English speaker. It was very interesting. Today has been a very good day, and I´m excited to see what tomorrow will bring. Tschus!

THANKS TO EXCHANGE FOUNDER BOB JACOBS!!!!

2008-06-08T16:30:00.004+02:00

Guten tag:

It is still so surreal to me that I'm in Germany - absolutely amazing! Already this trip has verified two of my foundational beliefs - music is trans-generational and trans-cultural. The gentlemen in the photo, Bob Jacobs, came to wish us "bon voyage" yesterday (at least I think it was yesterday.) Mr. Jacobs founded this exchange, and shared his passion and joy with the students about this venture as we boarded our comfy yellow limousines outside of DGN. Bob Jacobs confirmed for me that music transcends generations. My current interactions with our host and other German music teachers verifies my belief that music transcends cultures. Our passion for and belief in what music does for the human condition is already a unifying elements in our interactions. What a blessing.

Parents, your children were amazing during the travel process - they continue to make us all proud!

Tschus,

Glenn Williams

We're Off!

2008-06-07T19:40:00.003+02:00

Last Minute Thoughts (from this side of the ocean, anyway...)

2008-06-07T06:50:00.003+02:00

So I keep hearing Mr. Teague's voice in my head. That happens a lot, actually, but this time it's saying... "Now go to bed early. Get plenty of rest, tomorrow's going to be a long day. And you need to at least act wide awake when you get to your host family's house on Sunday morning.

Well, my suitcase, carry-on bag, 3/4ths of my closet and a big pile of... technology are all over the family room. It's not Saturday yet. Not for... five minutes or so...

So rather than pack and go to bed, I'd like to share a few thoughts that are swimming through my head currently...

1) Ben's previous entry brought to mind something I think I said during rehearsals. One of the things I'm looking forward to the most is experiencing this trip through the eyes of our students (and some of our staff members!). I've been blessed to make this voyage to Germany three times now. I know how absolutely amazing the people are, how beautiful the cities are, how exciting it is to perform for those audiences. I'm much more excited about seeing how our students react to all of that for the first time. It's like Christmas morning as a parent, but different!

2) The band has really come together this week. The first sounds we made as the Honor's band... hmm... It was obvious that most minds were on the fact that school just ended. By the end of that rehearsal, however, things were already starting to come together. By the end of today's run-thru? Spectacular! Let's take this thing on the road!

3) Technology. One of the reasons I'm late in getting my stuff together is the detour I made to my parents' house tonight to teach them how to use a webcam and Skype so my wife and I can video conference with them and our two year old daughter while we're in Germany. And despite the fact that it took a little longer than I expected to my them feel comfortable with it, the truth is it's SO EASY to keep in touch and to share experiences we're going to have on this trip. A big thumbs up and HUGE kudos to Mr. Teague for setting up a student blogging team. We did something similar on our last trip to Europe in 2005 but it included lots of late nights of wandering around the Austrian Alps looking for unsecured wireless access. Students had to email reflections or pictures to Mr. Teague who then had to edit a website. Now, all the staff and our student bloggers can be posting non-stop from their cellphones, host family computers, Internet cafes, and who knows what else. My only suggestion... Take the time to just enjoy the trip. Look at the beautiful countryside without a camera view finder or cellphone held up against your face. Our friends and family want to know what we're doing, but they also want us to expereince this great trip!

Ok, enough for now... now it IS Saturday. Let me end with this... I'm really proud of the work we've done this week to come together as the District 99 Honors Band. I'm proud to be part of the team and honored to be sharing all of this music with these incredible young people!

Finally!

2008-06-07T06:28:00.002+02:00

Tonight is the big night! As I am making sure my bags are packed, reading my exciting international travel literature, and getting ready for bed, I realize that finally it is time to go! Last year, it seemed like the trip would never come, but all of the pieces of our travel puzzle have finally come together. Tomorrow will be a day filled with excitement as members of our group will start to make life-long memories that involve friends and "first-times". The best times are yet to come!

A Tale by Clement Clarke Moore, Arranged by Ben Tullis

2008-06-07T04:53:00.009+02:00

'Twas the night before the band trip

and all through the house,

All the creatures were stirring,

Yes, even the mouse.

My clothes are packed in my suitcase with care,

in hopes that the band trip will soon be here.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter...

Well... ok so we don't have mice in my house.

And the clatter is definitely in the house, and not on the lawn. And maybe my suitcase isn't completely packed.

But the creatures are stirring as we rush around trying to get me completely packed and ready. However, progress is currently being hindered by the cat sitting in my suitcase.

Wow, I can't believe the trip is already upon us. This will be my first time leaving the country, but I couldn't think of a better way to take my first international trip than with 87 of my colleagues from Downers Grove North and South. Throughout the rehearsals this week, I have gotten to make great music, and new friends, and I can't wait to get on that plane tomorrow and share two weeks immersed in a new culture with them! I am so anxious to meet my host family and I am looking forward to new experiences in Germany. I would like to thank the music staff from North and South for preparing this trip and making it all possible so that me and many others can experience world cultures first hand. Well I'm done for right now, I will talk to you all from Germany!

...Happy band trip to all,

And to all a good night!

Are you ready for take off?

2008-06-07T03:13:00.003+02:00

Well, here we are the big night. The last rush of shopping for items and figuring out how to stuff anything else into our poor suite cases. Everything in my house is starting to climb to a climax as each hour passes getting nearer to our departure. I can feel a small case of the butterfly's in my stomach, I have never traveled over seas especially without my family. I wonder what I will see when I look out the window of our plane, does the ocean seem as big and vast from the sky as it does on land? I certainly am excited for tomorrow as this long dream is ready to become reality. I remember back in December when I thought "How cool would it be to go to Germany! I wish I could go.", and now here we are actually doing it.

This is such a blessing that we were given the opportunity to do such an amazing thing with our music. It will be the connector of our two worlds over there and I just can't wait. I want to hear the melody of their humming streets, bustling vendors, and whistle of the wind as it passes by. But the best part is that no matter where I am or what I am doing, when I will look up into the sky I know that some where back home my family will be seeing the same thing.

I wish you all the best in your adventurous packing, and I hope that your last night home is spent well in the company of your loved ones. Good night, and see you tomorrow.
~Jen

Preparing for Takeoff!

2008-06-07T00:49:00.002+02:00

I cannot begin to describe how excited I am to go on the airplane tomorrow and arrive in Germany. This trip will be my third trip with the band. (I previously traveled to New York and Indianapolis.) It will also be my third international school trip. (I went to France with the French department and Greece with the social studies department.) Each trip has been completely unique and I am thrilled to discover this new atmosphere. When the German band came here last May, I formed several great new friendships, including the girl I hosted, Mirja. I know my stay at her house will bring us even closer. I am excited to call her my German sister. I know that no trip is complete without a few nervous moments. And I know that I will be up late tonight double and triple checking my suitcase. But I also know that this is a trip of a lifetime and I will have many years of fond memories.
Tschus! Next time I write I will be in Bietigheim!

On the eve of departure...

2008-06-06T22:46:00.002+02:00

As we get closer and closer to our eminent departure, I keep getting more and more excited. I have finished packing--yay!--and have made sure that my bag is under 50 pounds (although, just barely--it's 49!) I even bought a new suitcase just for this trip and it works very well. But you probably don't care much about my executive upright suitcase by Samsonite (even though the roller wheels really are extraordinary), so I will instead tell you a little bit about what some of the people I've talked to are feeling, as we approach our departure, just to give you an idea of how we the students are feeling...

I've talked to a lot of people about how they are feeling about this trip. Most people are feeling really good about it, some have mixed feelings, and some are a little unsure and anxious. Here are some of the things people have said to me (some are paraphrased for brevity and clarity, in which case they are marked as '...' instead of "...")...

'Yeah, I think it'll be a good time. Seems like this week [of rehearsals] is dragging on forever! I can't wait to get there!'

"Should be good."

'Yeah, I've never been out of the country, so it'll be a little weird at first, but I'm sure I'll like it.'

"I am so incredibly excited for tomorrow!"--Mr. Teague (I think he might be the most excited out of all of us.)

"The word tour reminds me of our church choir tour and that was so much fun, so I can't wait!"

As you can see, many people are very enthusiastic about this trip. This will be my last blog before we depart. I look forward to writing about our travel experience on Sunday. Until then...CP

CHAPERONING BAG-O-FUN

2008-06-06T21:17:00.004+02:00

Greetings:

I am rife with anticipation for a myriad of reasons. This is my first time to Europe EVER!!! First, being on the precipice of experiencing architectural art history in person is an amazing feeling. I have longed to see the things I've seen in books in person for years - now that yearning is about to become a reality. Second, this tour is going to be musically amazing. When I first read the term HONOR BAND, I must admit I was slightly skeptical. After hearing the sonic emanations during the course of this rehearsal week, my suppositions were proven wrong - both ensembles are truly HONORS BANDS. Parents - be proud of how your kids are sounding this week. Finally, I am truly excited to be a chaperone (as demonstrated by the photo of the BAG-O-FUN that is about to travel with us.) As a director, I've been insulated from chaperoning duties for years. Now that this charge is a major part of my purpose on this trip, I look forward to embracing it to the best of my ability. My first time in Europe, with a bag-o-fun, making great music. The next two weeks are indeed going to produce a lifetime of memories for many reasons.

Tchus,

Mr. Williams (aka G-dub)

Our Blog begins to transition ...

2008-06-06T06:23:00.004+02:00

Dear Honors Band Families:

Our Blog for the tour is now beginning an important transition, as we pivot the focus away from official pre-tour announcements to personal reflections by our Blogging Team. Five North High, and five South High students, have agreed to write about their daily activities and personal discoveries throughout the tour. Their posts, along with the reflections of our faculty, will - we hope - offer family and friends 'back home' a way to follow this special trip.

If you are new to following/reading Blogs, you may not be aware that each post (well, most posts) should contain a 'Label' at the bottom, identifying either the author, or a topic that pertains to that post. You can 'click' on these labels. Doing so will allow you to see all the posts of that particular author, or all posts of a particular topic. This may be helpful to you during the next two weeks if you care to view a series of posts by one particular blogger.

From my personal perspective, I want to say to our parents and guardians just how proud the music faculty is of this incredible group of young men and women who will embark on this journey. We all (faculty and students) feel a great sense of responsibility to perpetuate this tremendous cultural and musical exchange program with our friends in Bietigheim-Bissingen. Thank you to you - our families - for all the things you have done to help prepare our students for success on this tour.

We learned today from our contact in Berlin that our concert in historic Wittenberg (the native town of Martin Luther) is nearly sold-out. They expect all 400 seats to be gone in a matter of days. That's exciting news for our bands! I'll add the concert poster above. Click on it to see a larger version.

After weeks and months preparing details for 88 others, I'm realizing I need to pack myself. Off I go ...

Eagerly Awaiting Depature...

2008-06-05T08:40:00.004+02:00

Hello friends! As I write this, when I should be sleeping, I am filled with positive feelings and expectations for this my second trip to Germany. In many aspects, I think that this trip will be more worthwhile since I've been there once before, for a variety of reasons. Once you know what to expect, it can make the transition next time all the easier. Also, I now know what to "look out for"--both in positive ways and about "things to avoid." I learned the hard way that certain things we say in english directly translated into German do not mean the same things, and can be offensive and embarassing, even. Learning the intricacies of the language and figures of speech the hard way was beneficial for me, albeit humiliating.

As I mentioned earlier, though, it is also very positive to know things ahead of time. For example, we will be visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, a place which we went on my last trip and I absolutely adored. It will be great fun to go and see it again, especially since I know more about German culture now. It will also be a unique opportunity to perform for European audiences, which on my last trip we did not do. This will be exhilarating, I am sure and I can't wait to share our hard work with the German public. I also have learned to speak the language better--two more years practice makes a big difference--so I will be able to practice and enjoy this skill even more thoroughly this time around.

Overall, I am really looking forward to this. Of course, I always have slight trepidation when it comes to 9 hour transatlantic flights, but that's just me being me. I look forward to finishing up the heretofore outstanding rehearsal process and embarking on our journey!

P.S. One last final nugget of advice: Bring earplugs (multiple pairs) and an eye shade for sleeping. On the plane, they will be a godsend--and also in your hotel rooms/host homes, if you are around anyone who feels the need to add some percussion sound effects during their sleep!

More later...CP

Packing, packing, packing....oh dear!

2008-06-05T07:01:00.003+02:00

Wow, in just three days off we go to Germany! As exciting as it is, there is so much to do. I know packing is a big thing for me. At this point my head is spinning, should I bring this or will I need that. Right now all I am certain that must be packed is my tooth brush and a few other things. It seems like it is going to be hard to fit all the things I will need for two weeks into just 50 pounds. Plus I want to go a bit lighter than that because, hey it's Germany, who knows what I souvenirs I will want to bring home!
The busy bustling about at my house is starting to drive me insane. I wouldn't be surprised if I walked in my room only to find my suitcase open and my family trying to fit inside. I know that while I am having a blast performing in Germany, at home my mom and dad will wait wondering about what I'm doing, the things I will have seen, and if I miss them as much as they want me too. (P.s. I probably will.) But I am glad that they are letting me go on such a wonderful trip that will open my eyes to a whole new world.

First Rehearsal

2008-06-02T19:47:00.002+02:00

Students gathered today for the first combined rehearsals of the District 99 Honors Band and Honors Jazz Ensemble. Rehearsals were long, but very productive, and there is a great spirit and energy about this group of fine young men and women. The directors are very excited about what promises to be a terrific tour!

Group Photo

2008-06-02T19:32:00.001+02:00

Itinerary Now Available through Google Calendar

2008-05-29T06:55:00.005+02:00

For tour participants, parents, or friends who use Google Calendars, please note that the entire D99 Honors Band Itinerary is now live using this scheduling software.

Benefits ...
- itinerary is easily accessible from any computer connected to the Internet
- you may link the itinerary to your personal Google calendar.
- you may sync the itinerary with computer calendars such as iCal, Outlook, etc.
- you may sync the itinerary with your cell phone (iPhone, or other phones with calendar apps) and other portable electronic devices (Palm, PocketPC, etc.)

If you use Google calendar, and subscribe to the itinerary from the Blog, you can easily "search" specific events.

You can access the Google Calendar version of the itinerary in several ways:

1) use the link in the upper right hand corner of the Blog. This will redirect you to a new webpage where you can view the itinerary and all the various event details.

2) you will notice that a mini-version is embedded on the right hand column of the Blog.

3) If you would like to subscribe to the itinerary, go to the main Google Calendar page (www.google.com/calendar/) and type in "D99 Honors Band" into the "Search Public Calendars" field.

For instructions on how to take "Google" on the go with your mobile device, click here.

Attire Update

2008-05-12T22:19:00.001+02:00

Some recent questions we have received have led us to believe that it would be helpful to everyone if we clarify what the expectations are for student attire during the flights to and from Europe. As we looked back at our handouts from the earlier meeting, we realize this was unclear.

While traveling on June 7 and June 20 ...

Students are required to wear their tour polo shirt (which will be distributed at rehearsals the week of June 2). Students do not need to wear khaki pants or black shoes during travel (these are for our informal concerts in Europe). However, students should wear long pants. Jeans that are not ripped, do not have large holes in them, and fit appropriately, are acceptable. Shorts or "Pajama pants" are not appropriate. Look conservative and professional.

Students may wear comfortable tennis shoes with their jeans or long pants. Sandals that cover a substantial part of your foot are okay too; flip-flops are not appropriate for this portion of our journey together.

We hope this will clarify expectations for travel attire; our plan is to reinforce these expectations with students during rehearsals the week of June 2.

Host Family List / Change in Rehearsal Schedule

2008-04-30T17:21:00.004+02:00

Host Families

It has arrived! We just received this morning the Host Family spreadsheet from our friends in Bietigheim-Bissingen. It was emailed to all tour participants this morning.

The list contains the name of the host family (Gastfamilie), as well as their address and telephone number. We have not been given host family email addresses. We imagine that some of you will receive email from the host family prior to our departure, but if you do not - don't worry. The host family will be there to greet us upon our arrival.

Itinerary

We have - just this week - been able to firm up our performances in Prague and Berlin areas. As soon as we have an updated itinerary from World Group Travel that reflects these performances, we will pass it on to you.

Practice!!

Our tour is quickly approaching. With the end of the school year upon us, our time and energy is being pulled in many different directions. Please assure that you are protecting daily time for music practice with a focus on our tour music. You must arrive at our first large-group rehearsal on Monday, June 2, with all ten concert band selections completely under your fingers! Some of this music (i.e. Godzilla Eats Las Vegas) will be new to everyone. For our Honors Band to have time to pull all of the literature together in one week, everyone must come to these rehearsals with the "technique" worked out. We will not have time to chase notes. We need to focus these rehearsals on ensemble execution, balance, blend, style, etc. Thank you for your advance work!

Rehearsal Schedule June 2 - 6

Monday, June 2

*** CHANGE FROM ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED SCHEDULE DUE TO THE SNOW DAY. DISTRICT 99 FACULTY HAVE MEETINGS IN THE MORNING, SO REHEARSAL HAS BEEN PUSHED TO LATER IN THE DAY. EAT AN EARLY LUNCH BEFORE YOU ARRIVE. YOU MAY BRING A SNACK FOR THE BREAK. ***

11:30 - 2:30 PM - Honors Band

3:00 - 5:00 PM - Honors Jazz Ensemble

Tuesday, June 3 - Friday, June 6 schedule remains as previously published.

Tour updates - April 11

2008-04-11T07:30:00.002+02:00

EMERGENCY CONTACT PHONE NUMBER

This number was emailed to tour participants on April 11, 2008. If you did not receive it, please contact Mr. Teague.

HOST FAMILY UPDATE
Our friends in Bietigheim have the student information cards now, and are currently working to secure host families. We suspect (this is only our best guess) that those placements will be completed in late April or very early May. At that time we will be sent a roster of all student placements which we will forward on to you. This roster will include the name of the host family, their phone number, and their email address. You will know exactly where your student will be staying prior to our departure.

MONEY MANAGEMENT:

World Group Travel has offered the following suggestions for your consideration:
A) For those parents who already have as Visa card (or similar), you may contact your card carrier and obtain a Visa debit card that the student can take with them. Parents can monitor and add money if needed.
Follow this link for more information on Visa debit cards:

http://usa.visa.com/personal/student/debit_cards.html

Follow this link for more information on the Visa Buxx card (a form of Visa debit cards):

http://usa.visa.com/personal/cards/prepaid/visa_buxx.html

B) There is a company in Lisle called Travelex whom World Group Travel customers have used.

www.travelex.com

1504 N Naper Blvd # 148
Naperville, IL 60563
(630) 955-0535
Travelex can provide cash for those who would like something in their pocket as well as variety of Debit Card options.

MEAL EXPENSES:

We are now able to provide an estimate of how much money students will need for meals during the second week of the tour (that are not covered in the tour package).

Students will be responsible for five (5) lunches during the second week. June 15, 16, 17, 18, 19. A typical bakery sandwich, chips and a drink – or fast food meal like McDonalds or KFC – will cost approximately 8 Euro ($13 at today's rate of 1.60 = $1). Therefore a budget of approximately $65 US should be adequate.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT:

Relative to students being present in social situations where alcohol may be present, we are able to offer the following clarifying language:

Students may – as a part of this tour – find themselves in culturally appropriate situations where they will be interacting with adults who are legally consuming alcohol. Examples include:
• meals in the host-family home
• post-concert wine & cheese receptions
• performances at city-governed outdoor band-shells or parks
• rest stops on the autobahn
• informal social dances with Musikschule students at local restaurants (i.e. Waldhaus disco, Asperg, etc.)
• Musikschule sponsored meals in public restaurants
• Guided group tours through a local brewery

Students on this tour are permitted to be present in the situations outlined above. However, to be clear, it is important for students to understand that they are not – under any circumstance – permitted to consume alcohol. Any violations of this District 99 policy will result in the termination of tour participation for the student participant. If you have any questions regarding this policy, make certain you communicate with your band director prior to departure for clarification.

Final Payment Update

2008-04-11T03:39:00.003+02:00

Dear D99 Honors Band tour participants and families:

We have recently received information from World Group Travel that airline imposed fuel surcharges, coupled with the continually weakening U.S. dollar vs. the Euro, will necessitate an increase in the total tour package cost. This is detailed in a letter from World Group Travel that was emailed to all participating families on April 10, 2008. If you did not receive this letter, or the final payment coupon (Coupon #8), please contact Mr. Teague via email and he will resend it.

When the district received this information last week, we negotiated with the agency to allow payment at the end of May (as opposed to adding the additional money to the 7th payment). As such, please remit the 8th and final payment no later than May 30, 2008.

We trust you know that - as a faculty - we have done everything we can to modify the itinerary and create cost-savings as we have put the program together. We are concerned about the extra financial burden this places on families, but we recognize that there is only so much control or influence we have over inflationary costs. You may have seen in the news this week that fuel prices are upwards of 60% higher this year than April of 2007. And this of course has a domino impact on the entire economy.

Should your family have immediate concern about being able to accommodate the cost increase, please contact your band director at school and we will work with you to create a payment schedule that will insure your student does not miss the opportunity to travel on this very special tour. We stand ready to help as needed.

Bill Miller
Craig Roselieb
Brayer Teague
Glenn Williams

Beyond the Rhythms on the Page

2008-03-22T04:18:00.002+01:00

March 10 Meeting Follow-Up

2008-03-11T03:46:00.002+01:00

Thank you very much for your attendance at this evening's meeting, and for your kind attention to the presentation. Based on several questions we fielded at the end of the evening, we wanted to share the following:

* We neglected to return to the topic of host families and WHEN students will find out who they are staying with. Our friends in Bietigheim have the student information cards now, and are currently working to secure host families. We suspect (this is only our best guess) that those placements will be completed in late April or very early May. At that time we will be sent a roster of all student placements which we will forward on to you. This roster will include the name of the host family, their phone number, and their email address. You will know exactly where your student will be staying prior to our departure.

* Due to the short rehearsal schedule prior to our departure, and the fact that many students will immediately attend camps upon our return, there will not be a public concert here in Downers Grove by the Honors Band. Fortunately, Don Wilson's participation on the tour will allow our concerts to be taped while in Germany, and DGTV will air these locally later in the summer.

TRAVEL WAIVER / MEDICAL FORMS:

If you did not turn in your packet of forms this evening, please add a copy of you medical insurance card, and return the packet to your band director at school PRIOR TO SPRING BREAK. If you turned in the packet, but without the medical insurance card copy, please bring a copy of that card to your band director PRIOR TO SPRING BREAK.

MONEY MANAGEMENT:

In the next several weeks we will share with you more detailed information about money management options you may consider. If in your own personal research you find options that you feel other families might find appealing, please feel free to forward your ideas/suggestions to me, and I will compile these in the next correspondence.

MEAL EXPENSES:

We are waiting for an updated itinerary from World Group Travel relative to the second week of the tour. As soon as we have that, we will provide to you a more concrete list of meals students will be responsible for buying, and an estimate of how much money they will need for said meals.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT:

We will be seeking clarification from the District 99 Administrative Office relative to students be present in a social situation where alcohol may be present (i.e. at a local disco). The forms distributed this evening utilize the standard language found in every District 99 overnight travel waiver (with one exception added about dinners with host families). We will make sure that all tour participants hear a consistent message about our expectations in the weeks to come.

Thank you to Zach Wetta for preparing information to share with families this evening.

Tour Polo Shirts / Tour T-Shirts

2008-03-03T23:28:00.001+01:00

Tour polo shirts will be worn with khakis during airline travel and for casual, outdoor performances.

You may purchase more than one polo shirt, if you choose. (Some may want to do this since we will be wearing them more than once. Keep in mind, though, that you will be staying in a home the first week and will have access to washing machines.)

As a gift for your host family, you will be leaving behind a T-shirt with the same design and a list of all tour participants on the back. If you would like one of these T-shirts as a keepsake, please indicate that below. Note: You do not need to specifically order a T-shirt size for your host family. The shirt will be "one size fits most.".

The required tour polo / host family gift combo will cost students $20.00. This money will cover the cost of both shirts. (Additional polos will be $17 each, and students may purchase their own souvenir t-shirt (optional) for $7 each.

Students will be asked to fill out a size-chart/order form at the March 10 meeting, and families will be asked to submit $20 by check or cash on Monday night. Please come prepared with your check book or cash. (Please note that all checks - regardless of your child's school - will be made out to "North High School Fine Arts."

(Note: This shirt is available in Men's 3XL, 2XL, XL, L, M, S and Ladies 2XL, XL, L, M, S)

Roommate Preferences - express on March 10

2008-03-03T17:24:00.002+01:00

At the Monday, March 10 meeting students will be given the opportunity to share their roommate preferences for the second week of the tour. While we are in hotels (Prague and Berlin) students will be assigned primarily to TRIPLES.

If students have a roommate preference, they should work collaboratively prior to the Monday night meeting to create groups of three. They will then have the opportunity to write down those three names on a "request sheet" at the meeting. This will be the only opportunity for students to give their input relative to roommates.

Students who do not have a preference will be placed in room groups based on gender, age, instrument, and school.

March 10 Meeting Reminder / Passport Expiration Date

2008-02-28T17:06:00.003+01:00

Families are reminded of the mandatory parent/student meeting on Monday, March 10, at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held at SOUTH High in the Cafetorium. This meeting will cover all legal and medical forms that must be completed for travel, updates on the itinerary, and an optional presentation at the conclusion of the meeting by representatives of Best Buy's telecommunications department, that will share suggestions with families regarding cell-phone use in Europe.

OF SPECIAL IMPORTANT NOTE: Concerning the expiration date of passports: THE EXPIRATION DATE ON ALL PASSPORTS MUST BE A MINIMUM OF 6 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF TRAVEL. (i.e. returning in June 08, must have expiration date of at least December 08.) We have been informed that renewals are now taking 4-8 weeks. If anyone needs to, they should immediately 'renew' their passport and ask for the process to be put on 'expedite.'

We look forward to seeing you on March 10th.

January 18 Mailing

2008-01-18T15:46:00.000+01:00

The January 18 electronic mailing to all tour participants includes several important documents that need your immediate attention:

Cover letter explaining the attached documents, the time line for returning completed documents, and directions for their return (different pieces of information are due on different days, and returned to different people).
Personal Information Card to be sent to Germany (you will need to print this out at home).
Passport Photocopy form (you will need to print this out at home).
Rehearsal schedule for the Honors Band. Please mark these required rehearsals in your family calendar now. There may be no absences from these rehearsals, which will be held the week prior to departure.

You may access PDF versions of each of these documents by clicking on the underlined link above.

Bietigheim-Bissingen Video

2007-09-21T04:23:00.000+02:00

Did you miss the video about our host community in Germany? The video is now posted to YouTube in three segments. Please follow these links:

Part I

Part II

Part III

If you missed the meeting ...

2007-09-18T20:37:00.001+02:00

Parents who missed our Kick Off meeting are asked to download the itinerary and the payment coupons (which includes the registration form) using the links on the right hand side of the Blog. Please remember that deposits are due by October 1, 2007.

Kick Off Meeting

2007-09-18T02:05:00.000+02:00

Thank you to all of the North and South High band parents and students who attended our official "Germany 2008" kick off meeting!

Need a Passport? Don't wait!!!

2007-09-17T23:06:00.000+02:00

First time passport applicants need to apply in person. A useful guide to determine whether or not an in-person visit is required as well as information on preparing documents and obtaining passports quickly may be found at the link below.

Click HERE for the U.S. State Department's information on applying for a passport.

Click HERE for a list of locations where you may apply for a passport.