Your Guide to Planning an International Performance Tour for Adult Choirs

Across the country, adult choirs are finding new inspiration through international performance tours. Whether you’re part of a community ensemble, church choir, or alumni chorus, performing abroad offers a unique opportunity to connect with audiences, experience different cultures, and deepen the musical bond between singers.

International touring brings purpose and momentum to your season. Our customized touring packages help define a shared mission, build unity and musicianship, and strengthen friendships within the group. They also raise the ensemble’s profile in the community, support recruitment and fundraising, and offer a meaningful way to connect across cultures through the universal language of music. With decades of experience and a focus on thoughtful, flexible planning, Encore is a trusted partner for adult choirs seeking a high-quality and rewarding travel experience.

The Benefits of Travel for Adult Ensembles

Once your ensemble is ready to take the next step, the benefits of an international choir tour quickly come into focus. With flexible scheduling, thoughtful pacing, and access to exceptional performance venues, these experiences fit naturally into the rhythm of adult life. A well-planned tour also strengthens friendships, fosters cultural exchange, and gives your ensemble the chance to share its music with appreciative audiences around the world. Some of the benefits include:

• Flexible timing that works around professional and personal schedules
• Stronger group connections through shared cultural and musical experiences
• World-class performance venues arranged by seasoned experts
• Access to enthusiastic local audiences that appreciate the quality and dedication of adult musicians
• Memorable travel experiences including guided sightseeing, local cuisine, and historic landmarks

Travel also attracts new members and energizes current singers. Many adult ensembles find that preparing for a tour brings new focus, commitment, and community spirit.

Choosing the Right Destination

When selecting a destination, most adult choirs look for places that offer rich musical traditions, inspiring performance spaces, and rewarding travel experiences. Some of the most popular destinations include:

• Austria for its storied musical history and venues with stunning acoustics
• Italy for historic cathedrals, pilgrimage sites, and welcoming audiences
• France for its blend of elegance, history, and exceptional concert halls
• The Baltics for affordability, authenticity, and strong cultural engagement
• The Czech Republic for its vibrant choral scene, breathtaking venues, and enthusiastic audiences
  
• China for its blend of ancient traditions, modern metropolises, and growing interest in Western choral music

For choirs looking to travel together without the pressure of performing, Encore also offers Encore Experiences. These are custom cultural journeys designed specifically for adult music lovers. These non-performing tours offer the same curated travel, premium accommodations, and expert guides, without the need to rehearse or perform.

Planning Timeline and Key Steps

Planning a successful choir tour requires time, collaboration, and the right support. While the idea may start with a single conversation or shared vision, bringing that vision to life involves careful coordination and clear communication. From selecting the ideal destination to securing venues and rallying your singers, every decision shapes the experience your ensemble will share. Starting early ensures you have the flexibility to accommodate your group’s needs, secure top-tier opportunities, and maintain steady momentum throughout the planning process.

Here’s a recommended approach:

1. Start 12 to 18 months in advance to give your group time to plan, promote, and prepare
2. Form a small committee to help guide decisions and communicate with your members
3. Select a travel partner who specializes in adult music travel and can secure the right venues, audiences, and cultural experiences
4. Choose a destination and build your repertoire around your ensemble’s strengths and interests
5. Promote consistently with email updates, print flyers, and announcements at rehearsals or services

With Encore, each detail is handled by a dedicated team that understands the rhythm and needs of adult choirs.

Making the Tour Affordable

While many adults are financially independent, keeping costs manageable helps ensure broad participation and overall group success. Encore offers a variety of tools and resources to make that easier, including personal fundraising pages for each traveler, our popular Fabulous Fundraiser raffle trip, and dedicated support to help groups develop and promote their own initiatives.

Consider the following strategies:

• Offer monthly payment plans to spread out the commitment
• Host fundraising concerts or special events to bring your community into the journey
• Encourage donor support or sponsorships through local arts or faith-based networks
• Provide optional extensions or upgrades for those looking to enhance their experience

Encore’s individual billing system ensures that each participant manages their own payments, with clear schedules and direct communication. Whether your group is large or small, our fundraising tools and guidance are here to help you make the tour possible for everyone.

What to Expect On Tour

Traveling with your choir should be as smooth and enriching as the performances themselves. That’s why every Encore adult tour is thoughtfully designed with balance, comfort, and connection in mind. From day one, your group will be supported by a dedicated Program Consultant during the planning process and an experienced Tour Manager once on the ground. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 overseas support team and global network of trusted partners, so you can focus on music and discovery while we handle the logistics.

Encore tours include comprehensive protection plans, curated cultural activities, and a flexible pace tailored to adult ensembles. Whether you’re performing in a historic church or enjoying a quiet evening in a new city, you’ll feel the difference of traveling with a company that understands the needs of adult musicians—and delivers at every step. Your group can expect:

• Comfortable pacing that leaves room to explore, reflect, and connect
• Inspiring performances in meaningful settings, from historic churches to celebrated concert halls
• Friendly, informed tour managers who handle logistics so you can focus on the experience
• Sightseeing, guided tours, and opportunities to engage with local culture
• A powerful sense of joy and purpose that travels with you long after the final applause

Ready to Explore What’s Possible?

Whether your ensemble is preparing for a major choral work or simply wants to share music in a new corner of the world, Encore has helped adult choirs create meaningful, expertly crafted tours for decades.

Ready to start planning? Schedule a call with our team today to learn more about performance and non-performance options for adult ensembles.