Education takes place in many different ways: The High School’s choirs had the opportunity to see elements in the world of music that they may not be familiar with during their recent cultural/music trip to Nashville.
“On this trip, they were able to learn a lot about the history of country music, visit some of the most famous performing venues in the country, and learn about the world of the popular music industry,” said Choir Director Danielle Estrada. “They were able to talk with current recording artists, ask questions, and learn about the process of becoming a part of that world. It was an incredible opportunity for all involved.”
Trip highlights included working with Grammy-nominated country artist Meghan Linsey and her husband/producer Tyler Cain, to compose a song which was then recorded in the auditorium at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Students also visited RCA Recording Studio B, where they were able to record tracks of their choral selections in the exact same place where Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton, as well as many other famous artists, recorded their own albums. Mrs. Estrada was even invited to play the piano which has been in residence at the studio since it opened. It was the same one played by Presley during his warm-up sessions, and can be heard on his 1967 recording of "You'll Never Walk Alone."
"Going on a trip to Nashville was a very fun experience to be able to learn further into the background of music and its historical locations,” said student Jacob Weymer. “It was also very cool to just experience a culture of music that we don’t see in New York.”
A trip to Nashville isn’t complete with a stop at the Grand Ole Opry. Students were given the distinction of performing a concert outside the Grand Ole Opry for guests prior to the evening’s show. In addition to attending that performance, students also took a front/backstage tour of the Opry, which included standing on the stage where performers appear.
The Grand Ole Opry's fame stems from its role as the "Home of Country Music" and being the longest-running radio broadcast in the United States. It’s a crucial platform for launching careers, preserving the genre's history, and shaping country music culture. The Opry's influence extends beyond country music, impacting American music as a whole and serving as a symbol of authenticity, storytelling, and connection.
They also toured the Ryman Auditorium, the former home of the Grand Ole Opry for 31 years, which has been called the "Mother Church of Country Music". It's also known for its exceptional acoustics and rich history, having hosted countless legendary artists and significant moments in music history.
"Our chorus trip to Nashville was so eye-opening,” added student Meadow Monaco. “Getting to see the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman made me realize how much history is behind the music we hear today. It was crazy to stand where so many legends have performed.”
Students also attended a private dinner at Ole Red featuring a personal performer/guitarist who allowed students to sing with him on stage. Ole Red Nashville is a multi-level entertainment venue inspired by country music star Blake Shelton and his hit song "Ol' Red."
The group also attended a performance by the Nashville Symphony, which traces its roots to 1945, when World War II veteran and Nashville native Walter Sharp returned home intent on establishing a new symphony orchestra for Middle Tennessee. The orchestra's recordings won 14 Grammy Awards out of 27 nominations.
Also as part of their trip, students toured the Country Music Hall of Fame, attended a dinner cruise and show onboard the General Jackson Showboat, visited the Nashville Zoo and attended a performance by the Indigo Girls, a folk rock music duo.
"I really enjoyed getting to know my classmates better on a more relaxed level, not just school, learning if they liked country music or not, their future plans,” said student Ella Reicherter. “I especially enjoyed all of the history of Nashville. I learned so much about music and the stories behind songs and artists, it was really special."
It’s been almost 10 years since a choir trip like this took place. There had been plans to take this trip in 2020 but it was cancelled due to the pandemic.
Chaperone Erika Reicherter said: "I think a lot of them gained a real appreciation for the history of a musical genre they may not have considered before going to Nashville."
“It was such a joy to be able to offer this trip to them, and was both fun and educational,” Mrs. Estrada added. “The students had such a great time, and made memories which will last a lifetime.”
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