Germany Tour Diary

Our concerts in Ellwangen were a big success. The marketplace was full! The concert in the evening got 3 instant standing ovations and 2 encores. The home-stay families were tremendous. On to Stuttgart this morning.

We are all having a great time on the WVYB Tour of sleep deprivation. The concerts have been spectacular even though the kids were sometimes sleeping in the audience right up to their performances. We are a big hit wherever we go.

The concert in Stuttgart was well received - far more formal and reserved than the night before in Ellwangen. We were playing for the Conservatorium audience and they were amazed at our varied repertoire and level of professionalism and skill.

The outdoor concert in Rotenburg was cancelled due to wind and rain, although it all cleared up just before performance time. There was no way to alter the decision. The extra free time was good for the kids as we have really been on the go since we left home.

Tonight we are playing in Graefendorf in a joint concert with the local band. They have planned a day of beach volleyball and pick up soccer for tomorrow - a great break for the kids. It is also the first time anybody will be able to sleep in.

The tour is going very well. The kids are having a great time. The concert in Grafendorf went very well and was attended by over 700 people, a number which far exceeded the organizers' expectations. The band played several encores and received prolonged standing ovations. The dance that followed lasted well into the night and the hosts went out of their way to express their appreciation of the band.

Hi Grant. Here's the next student e-mail. (ae is used instead of the a with an oomlot)

Sunday, a day of rest for Graefendorf, a day of sports for the West Van Youth Band.

An afternoon filled with soccer, volleyball, and swimming, was just what us musicians needed. It was a time to relax in the sun as well as get some much needed exercise.

All band members enjoyed the sun during our sporting events. Even Gene, Malcolm, and David joined in the fun and games. We give a huge thanks to the people of Graefendorf for being such wonderful hosts.

Now what would a band trip be without the constant drama...boring. Our long bus ride just helped the process. The ride from Graefendorf to Salzburg was approx. 7 hours. Most people slept while Doug and others drew on their faces with feltpens (don't worry, they were washable markers).

The days to follow will come with adventure, seeing that today (Tuesday)it is raining, our morning concert in Salzburg was cancelled, and we are heading out for a walking tour of the city.

Everyone sends out greetings to their loved ones and we'll see you all in Vancouver on Friday!