Blog

Welcome to ACFEA’s journal! Read along as we share stories from the road, from the alto section, or from our desk. We’ll also look back on shining moments from our group’s tours.

Why Tour? To explore a new part of the world!

For many groups, going on tour is a chance for their members to get out of their comfort zone and visit a place they might not be able to otherwise – which might even mean getting on a plane for the first time!   Traveling with a group can make

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All About Travel Insurance

Every year there are at least a few of our thousands of tour participants who cannot go on the tour they have looked forward to for months. Sometimes they get sick. Sometimes someone in their family gets sick. Sometimes a hurricane hits and flights are canceled for days – or

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Why Tour? To strengthen your group!

It’s no secret: Groups who travel together are stronger.   Sharing experiences builds a deeper sense of unity, camaraderie and support – key for any ensemble! This can begin before you even pack your suitcases, as preparing for a tour means working towards a big, exciting goal.   The Portland

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Why Tour? To have extraordinary concert experiences!

Even if you have wonderful performance spaces at home, being able to create music in different places is a uniquely powerful experience. It helps connect with the music, and the greater world around you, in a new deeper way. Whether you’re performing in a world-famous hall, or at a competitive

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Why Tour? To connect your repertoire to a place!

Sometimes, the question about where to visit is clear the minute we start talking about what repertoire groups like to perform. Some pieces were written for specific places, after all, or with a certain setting in mind — which means inspiration might come from your own music library.   For

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Navigating Customs with Musical Instruments

Moving any valuable items – like musical instruments – across borders can be difficult and time-consuming.  Customs officers abroad want to be sure that you will take your equipment with you when you leave their country, and customs officials on your return will want to be sure that you have

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How to Apply for a U.S. Passport

One of the most important things you’ll need for your international concert tour is a passport. ACFEA is diligent about checking passport validity with all of our travelers, but it’s ultimately your responsibility to make sure your passport is valid for your trip. Note: The following directions are for applying

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Madrigals Return Home (Tour Notes, 2001)

“Together they had come far and experienced much in their exploration of their musical heritage. The memories they created together would be cherished for a lifetime.”   This article was originally published in our 2001-2002 Tour Notes.   ****   Hailing from Greenwich, Connecticut, the Greenwich Academy Madrigal Singers are a

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How has a tour helped your group make a connection?

We believe tours are powerful tools for facilitating connection, be it to repertoire, audience, history, each other, or in many other ways. Here are some connection stories from recent tours: “As the choir of an American Episcopal Cathedral, our 7 tours of England with ACFEA have forged a strong connection

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