A Life Changing Experience

The New York trip was one that I will never forget! The fact that we all performed at Carnegie Hall is still surreal to me. I learned many things about myself on this trip but the main thing was that hard work really pays off. The music  we played was very challenging and I was nervous that I wasn't  capable of playing it  but I  learned  that if you have a goal in mind you will achieve it. And with tons of practicing I surprised  myself with  my musical capabilities. This moment changed my life because I never thought I would play at Carnegie Hall. I come from a very musical family and have always heard of Carnegie but never thought I would ever be there. And the fact that I did made me extremely proud. The biggest standout memory for this trip  was at the Top of the Rock. That is when it fianlly hit me  that I was in New York and I would be playing at Carnegie Hall. This was a trip that will live with me forever.

Home All Safe

Around 5 o'clock today we arrived to the main street parking lot after our 20 hour bus ride home. This trip was an amazing experience that I will never forget. We did so many things I never dreamed I would ever do. Being on that stage at Carnegie Hall was so surreal and a moment that will live with me forever. On the bus home we spent a lot of the time playing "Heads Up" which was a fun way to pass the time. This trip was amazing and I am so grateful to have participated. New York is the city that never sleeps, and kept us all awake for the time that we were there!

Authentic New York

We had the opportunity to get a quick brunch before touring Carnegie Hall and students Sara A., Robin Y., Rebecca S., Alli P., Emma L., Georgia G., and Tanner R. took the opportunity to get authentic pizza. Despite the fact it was 10:30 in the morning. We chose Ray's pizza and each got a slice of cheese pizza! It was very good but Chicago trumps all! We're  all super excited for our performance tonight!

Day Two

Today was an amazing day and everyone had mutilple opportunities to do amazing things! We started the day out at the 9/11 Memorial and museum. It was so moving  and emotional. It shed light on a day that will live in infamy. It was so emotional to hear all of the audio stories that were provided for us! Next we headed to Manhattan for Radio City Music Hall and the Rockerfeller Center. We had the opportunity to do some independent exploring to see what Manhattan to offer. Many groups went many places. Students Tanner R., Alli P., Sara A., Rebecca S., Robin Y., Georgia G., and Emma L. went to the famous Magnolia Bakery to purchase some baked goods! The highlight of my day was the "Top of the Rock" at the Rockerfeller Center. This provided everyone an amazing view of Manhattan as we were on the 70th floor! The day ended with an fantastic performance by the New York Philharmonic at Fisher Hall! I can't wait to see what tomorrow has in store!

Transition of Blog Focus - #NYNouveau

As our tour begins today, the focus of our Blog will transition to a reflective focus, allow faculty, staff and students to share their perspectives about the tour as it's happening.

Meet our DGN #NYNouveau "Team Blogger" ...

• Adam Behnke
• Lauren Birkmeier
• Ben Cortez
• Sarah Fantinel
• Victoria Iacovetti
• Rachel Martello
• Mr. Miller
• Ms. Mullen
• Tanner Ryan
• Mr. Teague
• Hannah Thompson

 We hope you enjoy staying connected to these students, and faculty, as the tour unfolds.

Today is the Day

Today is the day we have all been waiting for! In less then 12 hours we will begin our departure for New York to perform at a place most musicians only dream about! Words cannot describe how excited I am for this amazing trip! I hope that this day goes by fast, I can't wait much longer!