WESTMORELAND, N.Y.-Six very talented Westmoreland High School students recently returned from a three-week trip to Europe as part of American Music Abroad (AMA).
AMA is a cultural performance tour of Western Europe for high school and college aged musicians. In the Fall of 2022, Ashlynn Clanton, Gavin Haggerty, Damian Simmonds, Aiden Smith, Riley Smith and Rylie St.Peter were nominated by the Westmoreland music department to participate in this experience. “I saw and did so many incredible things that I will remember forever,” said St. Peter. Prior to the trip, students attended a pre-tour orientation at Kean University in New Jersey where they rehearsed and learned more about European Art, architecture and guidelines for touring.
On July 1st, they got on a plane and went to Europe where they performed in Cathedrals and in some of Europe’s finest halls. They explored Germany, Austria, France, Czech Republic and Switzerland. “We are all different people, with different stories from different states, different living styles, and different opinions but, we all are together,” said Gavin Haggerty. They returned home on July 17th with more experience and memories they will have forever.
AMA strives to not only give the participating students an expanded view of the world and an exceptional music performance experience, but also encourages self-reliance within a group atmosphere. It is their goal to see the students grow into responsible and mature young adults as a result of the tour. “Every experience I had during these last few weeks will never be forgotten and will forever be cherished,” said Ashlynn Clanton.