Taking the show on the road. All MIHS orchestra students can opt to participate in the annual Spring Performance Tour which typically comprises performances at large and small venues and a competition. These competitions and festivals are invitation-only, and MISD Orchestra is honored to receive more invitations to perform and compete than it can accept.
Performance and competition in new venues and cities further broaden a student musician’s performance experience and resume, and give students the experience of professional musical artists.
Depending on participation levels, orchestra students will either compete in their respective Symphonic and Philharmonic Orchestras or combine into a single orchestra for the competition. The Chamber Orchestra also competes.
Destinations for the Spring Performance Tour alternate by year. Costs are paid by student families, school funds, and Mercer Island Orchestra Booster fundraising. Spring Tour destinations in the past:
– Disneyland – “Music in the Parks” Competition and Recording Session
– Vancouver – Heritage Festival
– Local: Tours of Retirement Homes and Schools
Spring Tour 2023: Disneyland (Anaheim, CA)
Students attended the “Anaheim Heritage Music Festival” and then Disneyland, an awesome trip lead by MIHS Orchestra Director Lillian Hollyday.
Vancouver, BC Spring Tour 2017
3-Day Itinerary
Masterclass at Western Washington University
Heritage Festival Clinic and Competition
Performance at a Retirement Center
Fun: Granville Island, Capilano Bridge park, Playland Awards and free evening
2017 Experience
​The Orchestra won two awards: Gold-First Place for a full orchestra in its school division and one of only 4 Adjudicator’s Awards, singling the orchestra out for tonality and interpretation. Additionally, Nathan Wacker, bass player and graduating senior, won the (only) Ovation Award for his dedication to his music, school and community.
​The Orchestra performed Afternoon in Montreal by Paul Creston, and Hungarian Dance No. 1 in D Minor by Brahms.
Spring Tour 2019 : Disneyland (Anaheim, CA)
4-Day Itinerary
Breakfast/Break at Nature Center / Beach
​Heritage Music Festival / Competition
Recording Session at Disney Studios
Performance at a Retirement Home
1.5 days of fun at Disneyland
2019 Experience
Chamber Ensemble won first overall.
Recording session was “really cool.” Five pieces were recorded.
