Spain and Portugal Tour inspires young musicians on musical journey

A workshop with a Spanish military band, a performance at the Australian embassy in Toledo and a joint concert with musicians from the Conservatory of Music Francisco Guerrero in Seville were among the many highlights of Knox Grammar School Symphonic Wind Ensemble’s Tour of Spain and Portugal.

Forty students from Years 9 to 12 toured and performed across Portugal and Spain in December, with visits to Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Seville, Lisbon, Sintra and Salamanca.

“Some highlights included flamenco workshops, visiting the kaleidoscopic grounds of Alhambra and even visiting a bull farm!” said Year 11 student James Tan, who plays trumpet.

“My favourite part of the trip was working with the Spanish Armada Band. Even though there was difficulty in communication, through the universal language of music we were able to both challenge ourselves and enjoy an extensive variety of music.”

The tour gave the boys an opportunity to learn about the musical and cultural heritage of Europe, while also working on their own musicianship.

“As we traversed Spain and Portugal, the exposure to different culture's music and repertoire made us think that music is a lifelong journey which will never end, no matter where you are in the world,” said James.