When 80 students of WYSO’s Youth Orchestra stepped off the plane in Cusco, Peru during their international tour this past July, they were at 10,860 feet, 10,119 feet higher than Madison, WI. Altitude adjustment was one of many logistical considerations, but in the end, the trip was a major success.
The historic city of Cusco, once the capital of the vast Inca Empire, was just one stop along the way for WYSO students. Other destinations included the Peruvian capital of Lima, Puno, Lake Titicaca, and the legendary Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The students also performed with the National Youth Orchestra of Peru and attended one concert event.
2017-2018 Youth Orchestra members pose for a group shot during their tour of Machu Picchu.
Beginning with New York City in 1989, WYSO has now travelled on extended tours to Scotland; Taiwan; Japan; Washington D.C; France; Spain; Banff, Alberta, Canada; Hungary; Austria; Czech Republic; Argentina; and Italy.
Historically, Youth Orchestra has embarked every few years on an extended tour during the summer months for one to two weeks. An extended tour entails substantial expense and detailed planning over a two-year period. The Board of Directors Tour Committee and WYSO staff are responsible for researching and investigating potential tours and coordinating all tour activities.
Youth Orchestra toured Peru July 5 through July 15. Visit the official tour blog and Instagram page for more photos and recaps.