Written by Todd Rogers, Co-CEO, Bob Rogers Travel
Spinning a globe. Throwing a dart at a map. Spontaneous Google search.
There are dozens of ways to choose where you should travel. But here at BRT, we’re convinced that you should always start with why.
Every year, we match over 700 performance groups with incredible destinations. That’s taught us how important it is to identify the why of your group’s performance travel before you choose the where.
Before you choose a destination, take a beat to thoughtfully consider why you want to travel. Here are a few questions to get you started:
- Are you leading a group of new performers who would love the opportunity to learn during clinics with renowned instructors?
- Are your students eager to begin competing against other schools?
- Are you looking to recruit new student musicians and grow your program?
- How would you like to see your students grow?
You know your students and program inside and out, so you’re the best person to dig deep and identify the why behind your group’s travel. Some of these “whys” may resonate with you:
We want to grow as performers.
If music and performance education is a focus for your group, choose a destination with opportunities for your students to learn from the best. Nashville and New Orleans are great choices because music is simply everywhere.
Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry, as well clinics at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music, are favorites of student travelers. New Orleans offers a balance of history and culture, with clinics at Tulane and Loyola, and the energy of the French Quarter and historic Jackson Square.
We want to compete as a team.
Whether your students are new to competing or have titles to defend, competition travel is always exciting. The timing of your travel experience will be determined in large part by the dates of the event your group is looking to participate in, though there are many to choose from.
From festivals at Carnegie Hall to contests at Ohio’s Cedar Point to events in central Florida, there’s a competition destination that’s perfect for your group’s goals, schedule and budget.
We want to explore new places together.
Your travel focus may be bonding as a group or simply trying something new together. Here are a few of our tried and true destinations:
The most popular are Orlando, New York City and Chicago – there’s so much to do, see and experience in all three cities. If you’re looking to grow your music program, these higher-profile destinations may be the best fit for you.
Los Angeles offers a new twist on the classic warm-weather student travel experience. Students can enjoy gorgeous beaches, thrilling roller coasters, stunning performance venues and, of course, Hollywood.
For groups looking for an international experience, Ireland is a student favorite, with a rugged coastline, charming villages, fascinating history and friendly locals. The performance venues are full of Irish charm, too!
Other favorites include St. Louis, Memphis and Washington, D.C., as they all include a broad range of educational and performance opportunities – and a nice mix of marquee attractions and hidden gems.
When you have a vision for your group’s travel goals, you can choose the locale that has the experiences, culture and atmosphere that will mean the most to your students. Whether your tour takes you across the country, just over state lines or a world away, starting with your why will help you find your perfect match.
Todd Rogers is the Co-CEO of Bob Rogers Travel, a student performance travel company founded by his father in 1981. With nearly 30 years of experience in the industry, Todd remains driven to improve student travel.
Photo Courtesy of Bob Rogers Travel.
