When considering going on a performance tour, we understand that money can be a point of concern. Fortunately, there are a number of ways that music programs have been able to successfully raise money for their band, choir, or orchestra trips. This list of 5 fundraising opportunities mixes both old and new ideas, and it might just be the inspiration you need to kick off your very own amazing fundraiser! The classic tried-and-true fundraiser: a spaghetti dinner! Jazz it up by offering different types of food, or perhaps even by adding a movie: host the dinner in a venue with a large blank wall and bring along a projector for an easy, instant movie screen. Who could possibly resist freshly-baked cookies? Bake sales are a great way to raise money and build camaraderie within your group. The wonderful smell will entice any curious folks over, offering a great opportunity for your students to interact with community members they may not have had the chance to interact with before. This can raise program awareness within your local community while simultaneously raising money for your performance tour. A great summertime fundraiser! A car wash will not only serve your community, it will get your ensemble members outside working together—great for building a strong sense of unity. Consider asking for donations instead of setting a hard price, as some people can be quite generous. One of the many incredible things included when you travel with Encore Tours is the free trip for two that we offer: each of the groups that travel internationally with us is given two tickets—including airfare, hotel and breakfast—to Europe to use as a fundraiser for their trip. It’s a fantastic deal: we’ve seen groups raise over $40,000 with this! People know that performance travel is hugely beneficial for the students (and teachers, too!) who get to take part in it. Your ensemble members’ loved ones will be happy to help fund a life-changing music tour. Every traveler on an Encore Tours trip will have their own personal fundraising page, complete with a description of the tour and a sample email message for students to use to raise money for their trip-of-a-lifetime. With a little hard work and help from your community, your group can go a long way. Check out our e-Book for more tips & ideas on fundraising!
March 30, 2026 Encore Tours A New Orchestra Festival at Boston Symphony Hall There are certain stages that change how students think about performing. Boston Symphony Hall is one of them. Backstage Blog
March 18, 2026 Encore Tours 5 Performance Tour Destinations Ensembles Are Choosing for 2027 (And Why They Work) When directors begin planning a performance tour, the destination shapes everything — the venues available, the audiences you’ll reach, and the experience students carry home. Backstage Blog
March 10, 2026 Encore Tours Inside an Encore Orchestra Tour In a previous article, we explored what orchestras can expect when touring internationally. Backstage Blog