Prelude 2026 in Rome: Inside Encore’s Signature Director Weekend

This January, Encore welcomed music directors from across the country to Prelude 2026 in Rome. Prelude is our complimentary professional development weekend for qualified directors, created to give educators the time, access, and perspective needed to imagine what meaningful international travel can look like for their ensembles.

Over the course of the weekend, directors experienced Rome not as tourists, but as musicians and educators. They shared meals, listened closely, asked thoughtful questions, and spent time in spaces where music has shaped history for centuries. The pace was intentional. The access was rare. And the conversations often extended well beyond the scheduled moments.

Early feedback reflected that balance clearly. As one attendee shared, “This was a beautiful mix of previewing how Encore plans and executes tours and an opportunity to connect with other people who do the same crazy thing we do. Taking musical groups abroad.”

The weekend was anchored at Hotel Michelangelo, which served as a comfortable and well-located home base between musical showcases, guided experiences, and shared meals. One director noted, “Overall, the hotel is excellent for travelers. Comfortable bed, great breakfast, and a door that opened to the outside to let fresh air in each day.”

Rome’s deep connection to sacred music shaped much of the experience. Time at Santa Maria Maggiore allowed directors to experience the space both as a cultural landmark and as a living musical environment. The scale, acoustics, and sense of continuity offered a powerful reminder of why this repertoire still resonates today.

A Gregorian chant demonstration and workshop provided insight into a tradition that continues to influence choral music around the world. The focus was on listening, understanding, and context rather than performance. As one attendee reflected, “This was a great enrichment experience. The singing portion was wonderful.”

“Prelude always offers excellent and unique musical experiences. Always a treat.”

Prelude also brought directors into Rome’s broader performance culture through an opera house visit and evening performance, along with an aperitif at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. These experiences are a hallmark of Prelude, not simply because they are memorable, but because they help directors imagine what is possible for their own ensembles with the right planning and support.

Another standout moment was the private performance at Oratorio del Gonfalone. The intimacy of the space and the level of artistry made a strong impression. One director shared, “I was worried about an all-Vivaldi program, but this group brought the music to life. The space was lovely and a perfect fit for the program.”

Some of the most meaningful moments of the weekend happened between the scheduled experiences, often around a table. From the welcome aperitif to dinner in the Sala dei Papi and the farewell dinner, the weekend created space for directors to connect, trade ideas, and talk openly with others who understand the work.

“For the short time we were there, we did a lot. But I never felt rushed. The ability to explore or rest as needed was perfectly balanced.”

The farewell dinner closed the weekend on a high note, complete with live music. One attendee shared, “Farewell dinner was excellent. Jazz ensemble was excellent. I also really enjoyed talking with the people at our table.”

Throughout the weekend, directors consistently pointed to the care and professionalism of the Encore team. One attendee wrote, “It’s clear that you are passionate and genuinely dedicated to what you do.” Another added, “It really does feel like a family, and it makes me feel very good about booking travel with Encore.”

Tour Manager Joe Sartorius received especially strong praise for his leadership and approachability. As one director shared, “Joe was great. Knowledgeable, affable, and well prepared for every situation.”

When asked what they would tell a qualified director who has never attended Prelude, one attendee put it simply. “Prelude is an incredible experience that is invaluable on so many different levels. From networking with other ensemble directors to attending amazing musical events in exciting locations, it is a memorable experience you do not want to miss.”

We are grateful to everyone who joined us in Rome and shared feedback so early. Prelude 2026 offered what we hope every director carries home: fresh inspiration, practical clarity, and a stronger sense of what is possible for their ensemble.

If international travel is on your horizon, connect with a Tour Consultant to begin exploring ideas for your next performance tour.