“Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band experienced a life-changing tour to Mexico. Our ongoing connection with friends in Mexico made our tour even more special. We experienced the genuine, warm personalities of our hosts and large audiences. Everywhere we played in Merida, Playa del Carmen and Cancun, our concerts were greatly appreciated. We’ll never forget their smiles, dancing and clapping during each performance. We’re excited about the invitations we’ve already received to return.”
– Mitchell Lutch, director and associate professor of music
“Sharing our music with a different culture felt amazing. I loved all the reactions from every audience and have never felt so appreciated. After our first concert in Merida, one woman walked up to me and said, ‘Thank you for sharing your music with us for our hearts and not our money.’— I was very touched. The enthusiastic audiences made hauling all the instruments and equipment across the border worth it!”
– Jordan Stevens ’15, communication studies major and Spanish minor from Ridgeway, Iowa
– Keri Murphy ’17, elementary education major from Washington, Iowa
“Nothing can dampen the reward of looking into an audience of strangers, seeing joy and knowing you were part of causing that joy. I was floored to see throngs of people that took time to hear us play. These people wished us nothing but the best and often tripped over words attempting to express their gratitude. Music tied us together.”
– Cheyenne Selby ’16, psychology major and Spanish minor from Corydon, Iowa
“Among the many great experiences, perhaps most important was building deeper relationships among Symphonic Wind Ensemble members. It’s amazing to think that I went 2,500 miles to find out that the people I sit next to every Tuesday and Thursday are truly amazing individuals and musicians. If that doesn’t make a trip well worth it, I don’t know what does.”
– Stephanie Griffith ’15, biology major and global sustainability minor from Newton, Iowa
