Traveling as a musician for the first time can be a daunting experience, but with the right preparation, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate your journey smoothly and make the most of your musical voyage. Secure Your Instrument Invest in a Hard Case: Protect your instrument by ensuring it is stored in a hard case. This is crucial whether you’re checking in your instrument or carrying it on board. A hard case offers superior protection against the bumps and knocks of travel. Consider Carry-On Options Maximize Carry-On Opportunities: Whenever possible, carry your instrument on board. This reduces the risk of damage and loss. For larger instruments that must be checked in, the protection of a hard case becomes even more important. Protect Your Investment Insure Your Instrument: Travel insurance that covers your instrument can be a lifesaver. It offers peace of mind, covering loss, damage, or theft. While it adds to your travel costs, the protection it affords is invaluable. Expand Your Network Embrace Networking Opportunities: Travel is an excellent opportunity to meet new people and expand your professional network. Carry business cards or information about your music to share with those you meet. Stay Hydrated Hydration is Key: Especially for vocalists, staying hydrated is crucial. Long days and performances can take their toll on your voice. Carry a refillable water bottle to ensure you’re always hydrated. Understand Concert Etiquette Research Local Concert Etiquette: Different cultures have different norms for concert behavior. Familiarize yourself with local concert etiquette to ensure respectful and appropriate behavior during performances and attendances. By following these tips, you can ensure a safer, more enjoyable travel experience as a musician. Whether you’re traveling for a performance, a competition, or simply for pleasure, preparation is key to a successful trip. Safe travels! Top 10 Travel Tips for Your Encore TourCollege Music ToursTraveling With Disabilities: Tips for Group Leaders and PassengersFundraising Opportunities for Music Teachers: Simple Ways to Fund Your TourTips on Recruiting for Your Band Program
September 16, 2025 Encore Tours Do You Still Need a Press Kit in 2025? (Spoiler: Yes, and Here’s Why) In an age of Instagram feeds, YouTube channels, and TikTok videos, it is natural to wonder if ensembles still need a press kit. The short answer is yes. Backstage Blog
September 10, 2025 Encore Tours Opera Appreciation Travel with Encore Experiences For opera lovers, there is nothing quite like hearing a great performance in the very place where history was made. Backstage Blog
September 3, 2025 Encore Tours Taking Your Ensemble to Korea South Korea is an increasingly popular destination for ensembles seeking new opportunities to perform abroad. Backstage Blog