Select Scottsbluff High School choir and band students were presented with an extraordinary opportunity to go on a 14-day Europe trip this summer for Nebraska’s Ambassadors of Music. Students were able to perform music in five different countries: London, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Senior Band member, and Drum Major, Abby Pieper, was selected to go on the trip for the band and shares her thoughts on her musical experience in other countries. “My favorite place to visit was Switzerland because it was very pretty and I didn't expect it to be so beautiful. It felt like being in 10 different paradises at once,” said Pieper. Besides just visiting the beautiful destinations of Europe, Scottsbluff students were able to experience this trip with other talented musicians from across the state. “It was so fun to meet the other kids and perform with them. We learned so many things together about the different programs that are across our state and how some programs have some things they are better at and some things other programs aren't so good at. Coming together, we got to make some incredible music because we all have different skills and unique levels,” said Pieper. Lauren Johnson, Grade 12, went on the trip to perform for choir. Lauren shares her favorite music piece she got to perform on the trip.
SCOTTSBLUFF ABROAD
Zachary Wharton, Katrina Richards 12, Abby Pieper 12, Teyla Huff 12, and Lauren Johnson 12, pose together for a picture in Paris." This trip was very fun and a good bonding experience for all of us," said Pieper.
Photo By Lauren Johnson
“My favorite piece was called ‘I believe’. It is a piece that was put to music, and the text was originally written by a prisoner in a concentration camp. The harmonies in it were so beautiful and haunting and left an impression on everybody,” said Johnson. Through the wonderful pieces of music, the beautiful destinations, and meeting new people, it is safe to say that this trip was educational in many ways. Johnson shares what she learned through this experience. “ I learned that you can make really deep connections and cultivate these really deep friendships just by communicating with those around you. When you spend time with a certain group of people for two weeks, you really get to know one another. In the end, I know that I have made lifelong friendships,” said Johnson. These students go to experience the wonder of music and travel. Special friendships and memories can certainly be made through music and the possibilities it can provide are endless.
Cover Photo: Photo of Lake Geneva, Switzerland by Lauren Johnson