2014 International Band Tour to Toronto: June 30-July 9

The Toronto skyline at night. Photo by Benson Kua.

The 2014 All-State Lions Band traveled to Toronto, Ontario Canada for the Lions International Convention.

Our international trip took us to our neighbor to the north - Toronto, Canada - with performances and sightseeing along the way.  Members of the band enjoyed a superb musical experience, and made many new friends along the way. 

The tour began with a concentrated rehearsal period in a college environment.  Our rehearsals were held at the Sunderman Conservatory of Music at Gettysburg College.  Their outstanding campus set the tone for our trip, and gave our members a chance to experience college life, if only for a few days.

Following our rehearsals in Gettysburg, we departed on a six-day tour to Toronto, Canada.  En route, we performed in the Montrose, Pennsylvania annual 4th of July parade.  Once in Toronto, we competed in the Lions International Parade and gave several concerts throughout the city.  As always, all members of the international band participated in the concert band and parade band (marching).  Some members also performed the jazz ensemble, percussion ensemble and other chamber groups.

Not only did we perform multiple times in different venues, we'll also visited the CN Tower (famous Toronto landmark), toured (and performed at) the Ontario Science Center, and explored Niagara Falls, including a journey behind the falls and the Maid of the Mist boat ride.