Mrs. Dowd, who was one of the teachers responsible for planning the trip, explained that this was a trip in a rotation of music trips in the music department. She was excited to see this live orchestra because she has been a performer and has performed in an Orchestra that played live music for a movie. She thought it was amazing to see how the conductor lines up the music with the video. She is always interested in seeing a performance with John Williams’ music, as he creates such memorable tunes and themes that portray the characters on the screen. To her, the hardest part of planning the trip was making sure they had a place to eat and could pay all the bills.
A survey was also sent out to all students who participated in the music trip. Out of all the students, 34 students responded. Out of those students, 100% of them enjoyed the trip to NJPAC to see the Harry Potter movie with the live band. The music trip was a success, with every student surveyed saying they would attend another music trip like this again. The most popular part of the experience was the live orchestra playing alongside the movie, which many described as so realistic that they forgot the music wasn’t prerecorded. Students also enjoyed the energy of watching the film in a large group, especially hearing the audience’s cheers, laughter, and reactions. Beyond the performance, many highlighted the chance to spend time with friends, whether on the bus or during the trip itself. Food and themed drinks added to the experience, though they were a smaller highlight overall. A few students noted minor issues, such as high seating, long concession lines, and limited food variety. Overall, the trip stood out as a unique and memorable experience that combined music, entertainment, and social connection.
Image submitted to me by Kimberly Summers.
