Yesterday was a long day of travel. We spent some time shopping in the Clifton Hill district of Niagara Falls before loading onto the coaches to return home. It was somewhat surprising just how close the border was - we literally could have walked to the United States... Many, many hours later we arrived at Gettysburg College just before 10 pm. I must say, I was impressed by our group's diligent unloading - everybody who could pitched in, and Russ and I were heading home 45 minutes after the bus pulled in - at which point almost all the instruments were put away, not just dumped somewhere in the building.
As our Toronto tour comes to a close, here are some thoughts from students about the trip:
As our Toronto tour comes to a close, here are some thoughts from students about the trip:
I can't even begin to explain how amazing this trip was. The 31 hours of practicing music and marching was all worth it when we marched down the street of Toronto playing the polka a million times and saw the couples dancing to Can't Help Falling In Love during our performance for the Pennsylvania delegates. It's impossible for me to pick one favorite memory from this trip because there's enough to write a book but I'm very happy to know that we were able to represent our state well, all while making great memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. -Kelsey Hurst
All-State Lions Band was musically equivalent to a PMEA festival, but was undoubtedly more fun. The great experiences on this trip ranged from making lifelong friends on a boat to Mr. Schimpf's musical puns in sectionals! Thank you Lions! -Joshua Wagner
Lions Band offers a chance to meet other students from across the state who share a passion for playing high level music together. -Josh Oldham
My experience with the Pennsylvania Lions Band in Toronto was not only a perfect opportunity to learn new things, but also was a ton of fun. I was exposed to many activities that I otherwise would never be able to do. I WILL be back next year! -Kameron Mayhue
I've never had so much fun while also working so hard. The Lions Band has allowed me to do some amazing things and leave me with an experience I will never forget! -Jordan Reis
Day One: We were a cluster of strangers from varying strange lands congregating for a common purpose: Making music. Last Day: Strangers became life-long friends, strange lands became cultural experiences, and our common purpose grew into a common passion. Lions Band made this transformation possible. -Emily Whitcomb
The trip to Toronto was a fantastic experience full of fun and friends. Can't wait for Hawaii! -Dane Alexander
One last thought about Hawaii.... as our Toronto tour comes to a successful close, we all seem to be thinking about next year. We would love to see the band make to Hawaii next year. We will have more information about whether or not we are going forward with the trip in late August or early September - students and band boosters will receive an email with information at that time. I hope to see everyone again in Hawaii next year - cross your fingers!