Local Student Goes Trumpeting through Europe [PHOTOS]

A recent Heartland graduate had the experience of a lifetime this summer.  Sam Boardman had received a letter the previous spring from band instructor Mr. Schweitzer inviting her on a band trip to Europe with Nebraska Ambassadors of Music.  This experience would mean the opportunity to perform concerts in many different countries with other talented musicians and also have the chance to sightsee across Europe.

Sam said she spontaneously decided, “It would be an awesome experience if my parents allowed me to go.”  Not only did they give her the okay, but her mom and sister also signed up for the adventure and joined in the fun!  While Sam didn’t have to audition to go on the trip, she did have to tryout for her placement in one of two bands.

To prepare for the trip, Sam went to Fremont for two days in June for a practice camp.  She said that during those two days, she played her trumpet for at least 15 hours in preparation for their trip performances.  They concluded camp with a concert for family and friends on that Saturday night, and the next morning, June 9, they departed on their trip.

The group traveled to England, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.  They were able to spend three days in each country.  On a special occasion, they also were able to road trip and spend a day in Italy.  Their travels lasted until June 24th when they arrived back in the US.

In each country, the two bands held a concert for the locals performing 5-6 pieces each and would end together by playing “Stars and Stripes.”  When they weren’t providing entertainment in the country, they were exploring all the tourist attractions.  The group was able to visit numerous popular spots.  “It was fascinating,” said Boardman.  “We spent all of our time sightseeing. We were always on the go! I can’t even begin to explain all of the things that we were able to see. It was incredible.”

“My favorite part about the trip was Rothenburg, Germany. It is one of the oldest cities that continues to have the original wall built all the way around the city. It was so beautiful. It had a very small town feel to it, and I love that,” said Sam.

Sam said it was awesome to have her mom and sister along with her.  It is a shared experience they will never forget.  She also knew a few other students who went on the trip from surrounding schools.  By the end, however, Sam was challenged to step out of her comfort zone and had made many new friends.

The entire group included two bands, a choir, and an orchestra totaling approximately 350 people.  The bands only played with the chorus for one concert, otherwise they were usually able to perform outdoors.

After this wonderful experience, Sam will continue playing her trumpet at Concordia University in Seward when she heads to college next month.

All photos courtesy of Sam Boardman