Hello Ryan, It is my pleasure to offer the two options of Italy or Scandinavia for the 2027 Performance Tour. I want you to know that you were indeed heard when you shared your about how we can work together to make this 2027 tour the best possible to date. Please know that I am available to make any and all changes to this initial proposal to ensure either itinerary meets all the needs of the ensemble and reflects your high standards of cultural opportunities and musical highlights. I look forward to the process of orchestrating this tour together. Visit Your TripSite Traveler Resources Your Encore Benefits Guaranteed Land Rates We do not raise our prices based on currency fluctuations in the marketplace. This alleviates any unwelcome currency surcharges during the planning period or immediately prior to travel. The Best Tour Managers Around Our Tour Managers are repeatedly evaluated and praised as being the best in educational travel, and they are available to you 24 hours per day. The tour manager stays in the same hotel as the group, and coordinates hotel check-ins, restaurant reservations, and concert venue availability and rehearsal time. These representatives also deliver the educational portion of the tour with detailed historical commentary during travel. Protection Plans for Everyone All participants are covered at no extra cost by our Basic Protection Plan covering health insurance overseas and trip cancellation/interruption in case of illness. Participants also have the option to upgrade to our Ultimate or Ultimate Plus plans, which include the ability to cancel for any reason up to four days before departure and still receive a full refund. Additionally, all Encore participants travel with an automatic $15,000 health protection plan. Financial Security Encore Tours and our parent company, ACIS, carry a $50 million general liability insurance policy to protect our groups. In addition, as an Active Member of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), we post a $1 million indemnity bond as part of USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Program. Tour Fundraiser Register 30 or more participants with Encore Tours and we will award your group a FREE weekend getaway for two to Paris or London over Veteran’s Day Weekend or Martin Luther King Day Weekend. We have had ensembles raise over $20,000 using this gift as a raffle prize. Domestic Fundraiser Info Sheet International Fundraiser Info Sheet Prelude Join Encore staff for our annual Prelude event, a free professional development weekend for ensemble directors and a guest that takes place in a different musically rich international destination. “Incredible! I cherished every moment. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Such experiences would have been impossible on my own. Being pampered in this manner and witnessing the professionalism and luxury that Encore embodies was an absolute delight.” – 2024 Prelude attendee Online Billing We are excited to offer the choice of group billing or direct billing and will gladly work with your preference. With group billing you will receive an invoice with each participant’s balance and payment due prior to the due date. If you decide to enroll your group in direct billing Encore will mail invoices to each participant for all payments due. Accounts can also be accessed 24 hours a day on our website and payments can be made online with MasterCard and Visa for no additional cost. This is the suggested payment plan, however you can adjust it according to the group’s needs. Automatic Payments Plan Encore offers an auto-pay option for all participants signed up for individual billing. Enrollment in the plan is free and funds are withdrawn from the participant’s checking account on a regular basis, with the last payment being processed 45 days prior to departure. 24-7 Overseas Coverage Encore has offices overseas in the event of an emergency. In addition, US staff are always available to ensure you are receiving a quality travel experience, before, during and after your concert tour. All land arrangements including concert bookings and promotion are provided directly by Encore’s affiliate offices, offering the highest quality services and the very best value to our clients. Graduate Level Credits Enhance your professional development! Directors and participants have the opportunity to earn graduate-level credits through their tour experience and participation in our Prelude events. These educational opportunities not only enrich your tour but also contribute to your lifelong learning and professional growth. Tour Inclusions Roundtrip airfare from San Francisco flying into Florence and out of Naples or into Copenhagen and out of Stockholm Airport and airline taxes, and fuel surcharges Accommodations at centrally located 4-star-hotels Rooming in double/twin room occupancy Single room accommodations available for additional fees Breakfast daily and dinners at local restaurants as indicated in the itinerary All sightseeing and entrances as featured in the itinerary Private deluxe air-conditioned motor coach and driver Services of a professional Tour Manager throughout your program Basic gratuities for the tour manager and bus drivers Arrangements for all performances and liturgies as outlined in the itineraries Rental of an electronic keyboard as needed per the performances All concert arrangements include venue rental and allocation, all necessary concert permits, all pre-concert advertisement, and on-site concert assistance Pre-concert rehearsal time, where possible Vox Headsets All Entrances as outlined in the itineraries What’s Not Included? Baggage Fees imposed by the airlines Instrument stands Any meals not listed in your itinerary Programs for the concerts Allocations of specific seat assignments on flights Pricing Options Option One ItalyTravelers #2 Free45Air and Land: $6699Land Only: $503940Air and Land: $6729Land Only: $509935Air and Land: $7299Land Only: $563930Air and Land: $7679Land Only: $597925Air and Land: $8179Land Only: $649920Air and Land: $8979Land Only: $7299Option Two Scandinavia Travelers #2 Free 45Air and Land: $6279Land Only: $467940Air and Land: $6399Land Only: $479935Air and Land: $6599Land Only: $497930Air and Land: $6839Land Only: $519925Air and Land: $7179Land Only: $557920Air and Land: $7699Land Only: $6099 Based on “Land and Air” out of San Francisco flying into Florence and out of Rome or into Copenhagen and out of Stockholm accommodating the group in double occupancy rooms. SAMPLE VENUES Please note that venues are not confirmed until expressly stated by your Program Consultant. Band Choir Orchestra Sala del Teatro del Real Collegio Lucca Located in the historic heart of Lucca, this elegant performance space offers a refined setting within a former Renaissance college. The hall provides a flexible layout suited for ensembles and dance groups, with strong acoustics and an intimate audience experience. Its central location allows for easy access and a built-in local audience, making it a reliable and polished option for performance. Band Choir Orchestra Teatro San Romano Lucca A simple and adaptable venue in Lucca, Teatro San Romano is well-suited for smaller-scale performances. The space offers a basic stage setup with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for groups looking for a straightforward performance opportunity in a culturally rich setting. Its accessibility and flexibility make it a practical choice for mixed-ability ensembles. Choir Orchestra Santo Stefano al Ponte Florence Set just steps from Florence’s iconic Ponte Vecchio, this historic church venue delivers a memorable performance setting in one of Italy’s most visited cities. The open floor layout works well for choral, instrumental, and select dance performances, while the architecture enhances both acoustics and atmosphere. Audiences here often include a mix of locals and international visitors. Choir St. Paul’s Within the Walls Rome Located in Rome, this venue stands out for its welcoming approach to an eclectic repertoire, offering ensembles a unique platform to explore a diverse range of music. This flexibility is particularly notable given the venue’s historic significance as the first Protestant church in Rome, built in 1873. With its stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, adorned with striking mosaics and stained glass, the church not only provides an aesthetically magnificent backdrop for performances but also an acoustically rich environment. The combination of architectural beauty, historical depth, and openness to varied musical genres makes St. Paul’s an ideal venue for choral groups. Band Choir Orchestra Teatro Villa Torlonia Rome This beautifully restored historic theater offers a fully equipped stage in an intimate, high-end setting. Ideal for dance and theatrical productions, the venue provides professional lighting, staging, and audience seating. Located within the Villa Torlonia park, it combines performance quality with a unique and elegant backdrop. Show All 10 Venues Show Less Band Choir Orchestra Teatro Tasso Sorrento Situated in the lively center of Sorrento, Teatro Tasso is one of the area’s primary performance venues. The theater features a proper stage and seating, making it especially well-suited for dance and mixed-ensemble performances. Its central location and strong local engagement help create a welcoming and energetic performance experience. Choir Church of Our Lady, Copenhagen Copenhagen The Church of Our Lady (Vor Frue Kirke), consecrated in 1829, serves as Copenhagen’s Lutheran cathedral and Denmark’s national cathedral. Designed by Christian Frederik Hansen in the Neoclassical style, it features a 197-foot tower housing four bells, including Stormklokken, Denmark’s largest at 4 tons, and the country’s oldest bell from 1490. The interior is adorned with Carrara marble sculptures by Bertel Thorvaldsen, depicting Christ and the Apostles. The cathedral seats over 1,100 and contains a Marcussen & Søn organ, built in 1995, with 85 stops and approximately 7,600 pipes. Its acoustics and organ facilities make it suitable for choral and organ performances Choir Gamle Aker Kirke (Old Aker Church) Oslo Old Aker Church (Gamle Aker Kirke) is Oslo’s oldest existing building and a revered historical landmark. Built around 1150, this medieval stone church stands as a testament to Norway’s rich ecclesiastical heritage. It is renowned for its Romanesque architecture, featuring robust stone walls and historical frescoes that add to its solemn and reverent atmosphere. The church’s intimate setting makes it an ideal venue for small-scale choral performances, particularly those that seek to connect with the profound historical and spiritual ambiance of the space. Choir Hedvig Eleonora Church Stockholm Hedvig Eleonora Church is a distinguished Baroque church in Stockholm’s Östermalm district, offering a luminous interior and warm, resonant acoustics well suited to choral and sacred repertoire. The spacious nave supports rich blend and sustained tone without sacrificing clarity, making it an excellent setting for classical works and organ-accompanied performances. With its central location, respected local congregation, and strong musical tradition, the church provides a dignified and culturally meaningful performance environment, with repertoire and presentation expected to align with sacred and classical conventions. Choir St. John’s Church Stockholm St. John’s Church (Sankt Johannes kyrka) in Stockholm is a stunning Gothic Revival landmark renowned for its soaring vaulted ceilings and exceptional acoustics, making it an ideal venue for choral performances. Designed by Carl Möller and completed in 1890, the church’s grand yet intimate ambiance enhances vocal resonance, creating a rich and immersive sound experience. Its central location in the Norrmalm district provides easy access for visiting ensembles, while its historic architecture and sacred atmosphere make it particularly well-suited for liturgical and classical choral repertoire. Hotels Please note this quotation is based on 4-star standard well-located hotels in all cities. Munich and Salzburg Hotel information is contained in email dated April 26, 2024. Grand Hotel Francia & Quirinale Montecatini Grand Hotel Francia & Quirinale is an elegant four-star property located in the spa town of Montecatini Terme, offering classic Tuscan hospitality in a refined setting. Family-owned for generations, the hotel features beautifully decorated interiors with antique furnishings, a spacious lobby, and inviting lounges that reflect old-world charm. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and traditional Tuscan cuisine at the on-site restaurant. With its central location near Montecatini’s thermal baths and easy access to Florence, Pisa, and Lucca, the Grand Hotel Francia & Quirinale is an ideal base for Encore Tours travelers exploring Tuscany. Learn More Grand Hotel Tiberio Rome This modern and chic four-star establishment is set in a tranquil residential neighborhood. Elegantly adorned, it’s positioned less than a mile from Vatican City, the site of the acclaimed Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. The location benefits from excellent access to public transportation, including the Metro, buses, and local FM3 railway services, making all of Rome’s prime attractions readily accessible. The hotel features a sophisticated lobby bar and the spacious restaurant “Le Terrazze di Tiberio.” If you’re looking to relax, head to the 6th-floor terrace to enjoy breathtaking views of St. Peter’s Dome and Monte Mario. Learn More Bettoja Hotel Massimo d’Azeglio Rome This 4-star hotel offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern convenience, situated in the heart of Rome. Hidden from the hustle and bustle yet centrally located, it provides an authentic “Fin de Siècle” ambiance. Established in the late 19th century, the hotel boasts a rich heritage of hosting historical figures and contains a remarkable collection of artefacts from the Risorgimento era. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of Santa Maria Maggiore and the vibrant atmosphere of nearby Via Cavour, Via Nazionale, and the glittering Monti neighborhood, all within a short walk from the property. Learn More Hilton Sorrento Palace Sorrento Discover the charm of this 4-star hotel nestled among fragrant citrus groves, offering six outdoor pools for relaxation. Adult travelers can unwind with cocktails at the poolside bar, soaking in the panoramic views. With dedicated multilingual staff and concierge service, every need is met. Featuring 328 elegant rooms, seasonal pool access, and various on-site dining options, including multiple restaurants, guests can expect luxury and convenience. And be sure not to miss Happyssimo, the hotel’s seasonal rooftop pool and lounge. Learn More Grand Hotel Aminta Sorrento The Grand Hotel Aminta, perched above Sorrento, offers stunning views across the Bay of Naples. Since opening in 1961, this four-star hotel combines the charm of the Neapolitan Riviera with modern sophistication. Continuous renovations ensure it meets contemporary standards while preserving its historic elegance. The management team, dedicated to excellence, meticulously attends to every detail to cater to the needs of its guests. Tastefully decorated with incredible panoramic views, this hotel is a wonderful option for a variety of groups. Learn More Show All 9 Venues Show Less Comwell Copenhagen Portside Copenhagen Set in Copenhagen’s vibrant Nordhavn district, Comwell Copenhagen Portside is a sleek, modern hotel that combines sustainable design with comfort and functionality. Its Scandinavian interiors are bright and inviting, while the well-appointed rooms offer a tranquil retreat after a day of exploring. Guests can enjoy locally inspired cuisine at the stylish restaurant or relax in the cozy lounge areas designed with social connection in mind. With metro access just steps away and the harborfront atmosphere right outside, it’s an ideal base for discovering both the city’s urban energy and coastal serenity. Learn More Thon Hotel Opera, Oslo Stockholm The 4-star business class hotel Opera is situated as its name suggests, close to the Opera House and Munch Museum and the downtown shopping area. All rooms have full en suite bathroom, WiFi and in-room tea/coffee facilities, and the hotel offers bar and restaurant services on site: you’re sure to have a comfortable stay in this superbly located hotel. Learn More Hôtel Élite Adlon Stockholm Set in a stylish 19th-century building in the heart of Stockholm, this refined 4-star hotel offers individually decorated rooms with modern comforts, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen smart TVs, and wooden floors. Just a short walk from Drottninggatan’s shopping district and the Old Town, it provides easy access to cultural landmarks like the Royal Palace. Guests can enjoy a generous daily breakfast buffet, while the nearby Central Station and Arlanda Express ensure seamless travel connections. Learn More Hobo Hotel Stockholm With its eclectic vibe and focus on sustainability, Hobo Stockholm is a creative haven in the heart of the city, perfect for travelers who appreciate bold design and community-driven spaces. The hotel features uniquely styled rooms with smart details, an urban rooftop garden, and a lively lobby that doubles as a co-working and social hub. Guests can enjoy fresh, locally sourced dishes at the in-house restaurant and sip craft cocktails at the vibrant bar scene. Just steps from cultural hotspots like Kulturhuset and the bustling shopping around Hötorget, Hobo offers an energizing stay in a central yet laid-back setting. Learn More Have any additional questions? Reach out to your program manager directly, or contact us for any assistance. Contact Us