June 17 – 26, 2024, students from CYSO’s Symphony Orchestra will embark on a 10-day concert tour of Spain. Musicians will perform at world famous concert halls in some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities, including Madrid, Seville, and more. Students will also take part in sightseeing and guided tours of cultural and historical sites, as well as the opportunity to make life-long connections with their fellow musicians. Tour provides students with an unparalleled educational and cultural experience, as well as memories to last a lifetime!
With a reputation for its large and appreciative music audiences, Spain has proven to be a wonderful destination for touring groups of all kinds. CYSO first visited Spain in 2012—check out photos from that trip here—and we look forward to returning in summer 2024.
Symphony Orchestra members—Click here to sign up for tour and pay your deposit by Oct 9!
TOUR FAQ
How much does tour cost?
Tour is $5,800 per student. The $500 deposit to secure your spot is due October 9. You may pay the remaining balance in full or see the tour packet for payment schedule. Please note that tour deposits and all tour payments are non-refundable.
Payment schedule and due dates:
Deposit – $500, due October 9, 2023
Payment #1 – $1,325, due November 1, 2023
Payment #2 – $1,325, due January 15, 2024
Payment #3 – $1,325, due March 1, 2024
Payment #4 – $1,325, due April 1, 2024
Should I purchase travel insurance?
While it is not mandatory, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for tour, as deposits and all tour payments are non-refundable. Insurance is available from the vendor of your choice. The cost from Travel Insured International, recommended by our tour company Classical Movements, is ~$400. Click here for more information on TII’s plan.
How are students chaperoned on tour?
Student groups of 12-15 are each headed by two CYSO staff chaperones. Typically, lunchtime is unsupervised, though a “buddy system” is required. As the itinerary allows, unstructured free time between activities is occasionally possible.
How will instruments be transported?
Harps, piano, percussion, and basses will be rented in Europe. Cellos, tubas, and trombones are required to have a flight case (not just a hardshell case like a BAM case), as those instruments will go in the cargo hold of airplanes. Several local shops have flight cases available for rent. All smaller instruments (including french horns), will be carry-on items that can fit in overhead compartments.
How do I apply for financial assistance for tour?
The tour financial assistance application is available here. We suggest submitting your application as soon as possible.
Will dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes. CYSO will collect all information on individual dietary restrictions in advance of the tour. These will then be confirmed for every meal that CYSO provides during the tour.
Will visas be required?
Visas are not required for US passport holders. Please reach out to CYSO if you do not have a US passport.
US passport holders will need to fill out a ETIAS travel authorization in the spring prior to tour. ETIAS travel authorization is an entry requirement linked to traveler’s passports that is for visa-exempt nationals traveling to Spain and other European countries. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. CYSO will provide more information about this requirement in the spring, but information on ETIAS travel authorization is available here.
Are there any COVID-related travel restrictions in the EU?
We do expect that European countries will be requiring proof of vaccination (or at least a negative COVID test) to enter the country. Later in the season, CYSO will survey tour participants about their vaccination status.
Will there be a shadow/companion tour?
Yes! Check back for more information on the companion tour coming in November.
