Where Directors Are Choosing to Travel in 2026

Every year, we have the privilege of taking thousands of musicians around the world to perform in extraordinary places. It is one of the best parts of what we do. As directors finalize their 2026 plans, we have spent the past year helping ensembles choose the settings and experiences that will inspire their performers and strengthen their sound.

Directors choose Encore because they know they have a true partner. Our team handles the details that can overwhelm a busy season, from venue logistics and promotion to traveler billing and insurance. We recognize the time and heart directors put into their programs, which is why we offer meaningful benefits like complimentary travel for directors and assistants, professional development through Prelude, and fundraising tools such as the Fabulous Fundraiser. These benefits are designed to lighten the load, honor the work directors do, and make each tour feel rewarding and manageable.

With most 2026 plans in place, our team has spent the past year helping directors design custom itineraries that bring out the best in their ensembles. The choices reflect a blend of strong musical traditions, enthusiastic audiences, inspiring performance settings, and cultural experiences that stay with performers long after they return home. Each destination offers something unique, and the selections directors are making for 2026 show a clear focus on meaningful concerts, authentic connections, and trips that will strengthen their ensembles for years to come.

Italy

Italy continues to be one of the most beloved performance destinations for 2026, and it is easy to see why. Directors appreciate how naturally music fits into daily life here. Whether an ensemble is singing in a Renaissance church, playing in a historic piazza, or taking in an Italian opera tradition that stretches back centuries, Italy provides an atmosphere where performers feel completely surrounded by art. The warm acoustics of its basilicas, the energy of its public squares, and the beauty of its cities create a setting that elevates both sound and spirit.

Beyond the performances, the country offers a cultural rhythm that supports each ensemble’s goals. Groups enjoy well-balanced itineraries that blend rehearsals with relaxed meals, iconic sights, and moments of reflection. Cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan offer historic backdrops and artistic legacies that connect perfectly with a music-focused trip. Directors consistently tell us that their musicians return home more confident, more connected, and more inspired after time spent making music in Italy, and the sample itineraries below highlight a few of the ways groups choose to experience it.

Japan

Warm hospitality, a deep respect for the arts, and an exceptional exchange culture make Japan one of the fastest-growing choices for Encore ensembles in 2026. Concerts often attract attentive, enthusiastic audiences, and exchange opportunities with local choirs, youth orchestras, or school programs give students a meaningful cross-cultural experience. These interactions often become the highlight of the trip for both directors and performers.

The country also offers a beautiful blend of tradition and modern energy. Whether exploring ancient temples, experiencing the food culture of bustling cities, or performing in sleek contemporary halls, ensembles are immersed in a place that values discipline, collaboration, and craft. The combination of musical heritage, hospitality, and modern energy creates a travel experience that leaves ensembles feeling renewed and deeply connected.

The United Kingdom

Historic performance traditions and an impressive variety of venue styles make the United Kingdom a consistently popular choice for directors planning 2026 travel. Ensembles may find themselves singing in centuries-old cathedrals, collaborating with local musicians in lively arts centers, or performing on stages that have hosted renowned international groups. The atmosphere blends deep history with a vibrant contemporary arts scene.

Exploring the region is also remarkably easy, allowing groups to experience London’s iconic cultural institutions, the academic energy of Oxford and Cambridge, and the striking landscapes of Scotland and Wales. This mix of accessibility, culture, and artistic tradition gives ensembles an inspiring canvas for both performance and personal growth.

The Czech Republic

Atmospheric concert settings, historic architecture, and a strong musical identity make the Czech Republic a standout destination for ensembles seeking artistry and authenticity. Prague in particular offers an unforgettable blend of Gothic spires, Baroque interiors, and welcoming audiences that help every performance feel special.

Beyond the capital, regional centers provide intimate, memorable venues and genuine connections with local communities. Places like Karlovy Vary, České Budějovice, and smaller spa towns embrace visiting musicians with enthusiasm. The combination of charm, character, and acoustically rewarding spaces creates experiences that stay with performers long after they return home.

France

Elegant performance settings and a rich artistic heritage make France a timeless favorite among directors. In Paris, ensembles enjoy inspiring concert venues, world-class museums, and neighborhoods filled with creative energy. Historic churches and civic spaces offer acoustics that help musicians feel both supported and inspired.

Venturing beyond the capital adds a different dimension to the experience. Normandy, the Loire Valley, and Provence offer quieter rhythms, warm community audiences, and opportunities for reflection and sightseeing. The country’s thoughtful blend of artistry, beauty, and daily culture gives ensembles room to grow, connect, and make lasting memories.

Ready to Start Planning?

Whether you are putting the finishing touches on a 2026 itinerary or beginning to shape your ideas for 2027, our amazing team is here to support you. Your dedicated program consultant can help you build a custom trip that matches your goals, your repertoire, and the spirit of your ensemble.