On Sunday, May 17th, 2015, Encore Tours welcomed 60 people aboard the yacht Elite, for a seminar on ‘Motivating Your Musicians to Practice’. While enjoying a scenic cruise of Boston Harbor, the audience of ensemble directors from across New England heard a panel of experts share their experience and ideas: From Interlochen Arts Academy, Dr. Carolyn Watson, Orchestra Conductor 2015 GRAMMY Music Educator Award recipient, Jared Cassedy New England’s outstanding high school music director, Gerry Dolan from Ipswich High School Author of “So You Want To Be a Music Major,” Robert Franzblau
July 23, 2026 David Solar 2026–2027 Musical Celebrations Calendar A new school year brings concerts, rehearsals, auditions, deadlines and plenty of dates to keep organized. Backstage Blog
July 21, 2026 David Solar Beethoven at 200: Why His Music Still Resonates On March 26, 2027, musicians and audiences around the world will mark the 200th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s death. Backstage Blog
July 16, 2026 Encore Tours Musical Celebrations Around the World: National Piano Month Every September, National Piano Month celebrates an instrument that has shaped concert halls, classrooms, churches, theaters, jazz clubs and homes around the world. Backstage Blog