Ever since Spring Break, the 500s building has been bustling with music, debates over Chicago-style pizza and bowling skills. Both are the result of over 100 students from Northwood’s top music groups being blown away as they peformed and toured the Windy City from March 29 to April 2.
Wind Symphony, Philharmonic Orchestra, Tour Choir and Jazz I performed at Wentz Concert Hall in front of North Central College instructors. The performance included several pieces such as “When You Wish Upon a Star,” “Prayer of the Children,” Bob Washut’s “Beneath the Mask” and music from “Incredibles 2.”
“It gave me a lot of appreciation for professional musicians who do this for a job,” trumpet player freshman Alvin Chung said. “We did not play our best, but it was still really fun, because how often do you get to play in Chicago? Bringing your instrument and playing it—that’s part of the fun.”
Along with viewing the opera “La Bohème” together, Northwood’s music department collaborated with the travel agency Group Travel Network, Inc. to bring students to attractions like the Pinstripes bowling alley, Wrigley Field, the Willis Tower’s Skydeck, the Bean and Northwestern University. Although the tour had some scheduling issues that cut into time spent at the many sights, many students still enjoyed spending time with their friends outside of school and hearing other music groups perform.
“It was interesting to be on a trip with a huge group of people,” violinist senior Ellie Guo said. “You get to be with other people that you typically wouldn’t be with. And rooming with people, you get really close after you live with people for four days.”
Northwood’s music groups previously toured every other year until the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chicago tour marks the first time all music programs have traveled out of Irvine together since their San Francisco tour in 2018.
“We’re not looking at committing to returning to every other year, but we do look at this tour as a return to touring,” instrumental music director Ben Case said. “We do see it as a really exciting part of our program and a wonderful opportunity to share what we’re doing with people outside of IUSD and Southern California.”
Students can listen to a recording of the performance on the Timberwolves Instrumental Music Boosters’ YouTube account. Those interested in hearing these groups in person can attend the Pops Gala on May 30, which instrumental music director Cole Quizon hopes will benefit from the bonds created during the tour.
“This tour brought students an unparalleled opportunity to connect with each other, American culture and other musicians,” Quizon said. “Music is about connecting and communicating with each other, so having opportunities to do this outside of music only strengthens ensemble performances.”
