At Encore Tours, we're known for going above and beyond to make your music ensemble's trip a meaningful, hassle-free, and memorable experience for you and your students. Our expert staff are with you every step of the way — from building your itinerary to confirming performance details, from helping with fundraising to managing individual payments, and from assisting you in building your ensemble's press kit to highlighting your trip on social media. We utilize our knowledge of music and travel to ensure the best possible tour for your group. 

But, Encore goes beyond travel. We are committed to supporting music education at home and the people who make the magic happen — you, music educators!

That's why Encore Tours is proud to provide numerous benefits for directors like Graduate Level Credits for Music Teachers and our yearly trip for Encore Tours directors, Prelude. 

What is Prelude? 

Prelude is Encore's professional networking weekend for ensemble directors. Taking place in historic and musically-rich cities such as Vienna and Prague, ensemble leaders and one guest travel round trip for free, stay in luxury hotels, and take in all the city has to offer over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend. 

Not only is Prelude an exciting getaway, it is also a professionally enriching experience. Prelude is centered around exploration of personal and professional development, offering unlimited opportunities for networking with fellow music directors and leaders, as well as cultural experiences, artistic development, and a whole lot of fun!

How does one qualify for Prelude?

To take part in Prelude 2018, ensemble leaders planning a group trip with Encore must have a certain number of passengers register by the deadlines below: 

What are people saying about Prelude?

“Your thoroughly planned weekend made us feel like very special guests. You also reminded us how important it is to make sure that music educators continue to seek out musical experiences and musical moments. It is through these experiences that we can continue to motivate and enrich our students' lives.” – Gerry D, Director of Fine Arts, Ipswich High School

“I loved meeting so many fellow musicians on the trip and cannot believe how much I saw and experienced over the long weekend. First class treatment all the way!” – Rosemary G, Hauppauge High School Choir

“Encore's handling of all tours is exemplary and I recommend every group leader participate in Prelude.” – Sara W, Norwalk Youth Symphony

Where will Prelude take me in 2018?

Encore is thrilled to announce that this year's Prelude will take place in Salzburg, Austria, with the option to extend your trip to include an extra day in Munich and exploring the Bavarian countryside!