Northwestern Symphonic Band plans spring tour in Italy

The Northwestern Symphonic Band performing in the Plaza Mayor de Cáceres during its 2019 tour in Spain.

The Northwestern College Symphonic Band is planning a concert tour and mission trip to Italy March 1 to 11. The tour will include performances in Naples, Rome, Florence, Santa Maria degli Angeli, and Bologna. The 48-member ensemble will also have opportunity to visit sites of historical, spiritual and cultural significance, such as the Pompeii ruins, St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the Accademia Gallery in Florence, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

“While Italy is a country of outstanding culture, museums, historical sites and works of art, it has a strikingly low population regularly attending church,” says Dr. Angela Carlson, director of the Symphonic Band. “We look forward to growing in our relationship with Christ, reflecting his love to the people we meet, and pointing others toward him throughout this opportunity.”

This is the second international tour Carlson has coordinated as director of the Symphonic Band, having led a tour to Spain in 2019. Earlier band tour sites included Mexico, Cuba and Ukraine. 

Each band member is responsible for paying approximately $3,500 out of pocket and raising an additional $1,500. Tax-deductible donations to support the trip can be made by visiting nwciowa.edu/give2nwc and choosing “Symphonic Band Mission Tour” as the designation, or by mailing a check made payable to “Northwestern College Symphonic Band Tour” to NWC Advancement Office, 101 7th St. SW, Orange City, IA 51041.

Northwestern’s music department has a tradition of dynamic performances, outstanding faculty and standout educational experiences in an environment committed to glorifying God. Students can audition for one or more of 10 ensembles, having the opportunity to tour around the world and perform in the award-winning Christ Chapel.