Darien High School Band, Jazz Ensemble Students To Visit Tennessee

DARIEN, CT — Students in band or jazz ensembles at Darien High School will head to Nashville, Tenn., for a few days next March to perform and learn about the music in the region.

The Darien Board of Education this week voted to approve the trip, which will take place from March 20-23, 2024.

Darien Public Schools Music Director Colleen Thompson went before the board to outline highlights of the trip.

"While on the trip, the students will have several performance opportunities and will experience the music and culture of Nashville. For the trip, the students will learn about the origins of blues, rock and roll, jazz, country and other styles that stem from the region," Thompson said, noting that students will perform these styles throughout the year.

On one of the days, students will visit Cane Ridge High School in Antioch, Tenn., to participate in an exchange performance with other band students.

"These types of exchanges are not only beneficial to students musically, but it allows them to make connections and build relationships with students from different backgrounds," Thompson said.

Students will also perform at an adjudication clinic at Vanderbilt University and receive feedback and coaching from some of the musicians and educators in the area. They will also tour the Country Music Hall of Fame, attend a performance at the Grand Ole Opry House, and enjoy other cultural experiences in the greater Nashville area.

Thompson said students have taken a similar trip in the past. About 80-100 students are expected to sign-up to go based on past participation. Thompson noted that an annual wreath sale helps offset the cost of the trip.

"I'm very enthusiastic about this opportunity for our students," Thompson said.

The board approved the trip without any debate.