Announcing Our New eBook Encore Tours is proud to introduce our newest free resource for music educators: The Music Educator’s Playbook: 13 Engaging and Adaptable Lesson Plans for Modern Classrooms. This eBook was created for today’s music teachers; those looking for fresh ideas that are relevant, flexible, and easy to implement in any classroom setting. What’s Included Each of the 13 lessons is designed to help you meet national music standards while fostering creativity, collaboration, and student engagement. Highlights include: Interactive composition projects using digital tools like Soundtrap or GarageBand Culturally diverse repertoire to support global learning and inclusion Cross-curricular connections with history, science, and media literacy Student-led learning activities and project-based assignments SEL-focused lessons to promote emotional expression and empathy Adaptable strategies for hybrid, remote, or inclusive classrooms Why This Matters Music education continues to evolve, and your teaching tools should evolve with it. The Playbook offers practical, modern lesson plans that work in today’s classroom environment, whether you’re teaching in person, online, or somewhere in between. These lessons aren’t just about music; they’re about helping students think critically, express themselves creatively, and collaborate with confidence. Take Learning Further Many of the topics covered in the Playbook—like global repertoire, student leadership, and creative performance—are naturally amplified through music travel. If you’re planning a future tour, this resource can help build momentum and excitement in the classroom while preparing your ensemble for meaningful experiences abroad. Download the Free eBook The Music Educator’s Playbook is completely free to download and use. Start exploring new ideas and building more engaging, inclusive lesson plans today.
July 14, 2025 Encore Tours Announcing Prelude 2026 in Rome We’re excited to officially announce that Prelude 2026 will take place in Rome, Italy, from January 15–19, 2026, over the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. Backstage Blog
July 9, 2025 Encore Tours Your Guide to Planning an International Performance Tour for Adult Choirs Across the country, adult choirs are finding new inspiration through international performance tours. Backstage Blog
June 24, 2025 Encore Tours Performance Tours That Align with the School Calendar: Best Times to Travel by Region Planning an international tour for your choir, orchestra, or band means finding the right moment in the school year. From spring breaks to early summer, each U.S. Backstage Blog