By Kayla Markowitz and Addy Barber – Advocate Editors

The Jonathan Law music department packed its bags and flew to New Orleans, Louisiana, from March 22-26.

Students participating in Choir, Band, Orchestra, had the once in a lifetime opportunity to visit New Orleans, a city best known for their live music, historic landmarks, and exciting atmosphere, with their musically inclined peers. 

“The trip impacted my life in the way that it was a very new experience for me as I’ve never been to New Orleans before,” senior Oliver Harrigan said. “New Orleans was different from anywhere else that I’ve been and the culture was so unique and powerful.”

Not only was this trip a fun break from the daily rehearsals, it was also a chance to learn outside of the classroom. Choir Director Ms. Jones and Band Director Mr. Pelaggi were excited to immerse students into new cultures, new sights, and most importantly, great musicians. 

“It has been researched that individuals learn better through hands-on experiences and being immersed in their learning,” Jones said. “This is an opportunity for that all while having fun with their friends.”

Students in Orchestra and Band were also given the opportunity to improve their talents, and learn about rich history and experience invaluable lessons about the history of music. 

“Some of my favorite experiences from the trip was the master class at Loyola University, where a professor helped the Orchestra and Band improve our combined pieces for our upcoming Spring Concert on April 23rd,” senior Isabelle Maselli said. “Also learning about the history of Preservation Hall, a historic music venue in the French Quarter, and they preserve the music through these concerts.”

Students couldn’t choose just one part of the trip they loved most. They truly enjoyed the whole experience. 

“My favorite part was the whole trip to be honest,” senior Hailey Russo said. “Seeing all the live music and the soul they put into their performance is just amazing, and being able to hear the history behind New Orleans and learn so much about one place was such a great experience.”

Although students couldn’t choose just one part of the trip they loved most, Jones had no problem highlighting her favorite part of the trip.

“My favorite part was watching the students be fully engaged, interactive, positive and respectful in so many new experiences,” Jones said. “To know that so many have never traveled, flown on a plane or been in another state before and now we’re surrounded by incredible musicians everywhere and steeped in the culture of New Orleans was something I will never forget or take for granted.”

The trip was designed to help students experience music in new environments and is highly recommended for underclassmen because it brings them out of their comfort zone and helps them experience new adventures. 

“I would recommend students traveling to New Orleans in the future to appreciate how different and beautiful their culture is,” Pelaggi said. “Our students were able to experience music, food, and culture that they cannot get in our part of the country.”