Every year high school students hit the road in search of places to perform. During the holidays, students have found very receptive “places to play” in places such as New York City. During the spring, amusements parks, museums, and zoos frequently host performing groups.

Why host performing groups? Over the years, high school trips have become a valuable learning experience. Many schools require performances to justify student trips. The parade has been a mainstay for amusements parks. Judged competitions and workshops also attract performing students. Such groups can include marching bands, symphony orchestras, jazz ensembles and choirs. Sometimes, the choice of the destination or attraction depends on availability of performing venues.

An important question to ask: Is your venue appropriate for music performances? For most hotels and restaurants, probably not. Why? Not enough room for the performers and audience. Large hotels/resorts and major restaurants with huge lobbies may work. Other performing venues include attractions like museums, zoos, amusement parks, sports stadiums, theaters etc.

Ok, you may have a place for performances. Consider a number of basic issues. Many music performances are held in “public space” such as a lobby. Would the performance enhance or hinder the visitor experience with set-up/tear-down commotion and noise? Is an auditorium available? What type of audience could your venue provide?

Next consider logistics. Where do coaches unload? Concert bands carry a lot of heavy and large instruments and equipment. Can this equipment be taken through the front door or they should use the loading dock or freight elevator?

Exactly where will groups perform and how many people can fit into the space? Will the choice of performance space (ie. a lobby) unduly disrupt daily operations? Sometimes the acoustics of the space need consideration.
Performance times of day, day of week, and months also need to considered. Allow plenty of time for arrival and departure, performance, setup and tear-down. Assume the group will not arrive on-time. Are there convenient places to change into uniforms or formal attire? What about safely storing instrument cases? Do you have a PA system and chairs the group can use? Is electricity available? Will clean-up be needed after the performance and who will do it?

One person needs to be in charge who can coordinate every aspect of planning and day-of- visit activities. This includes working with all departments such as box office, maintenance, security, food and beverage, education and special events.

How can you determine if performing groups are right for you? Talk to other organizations in your area who host performing groups and maybe observe a performance there. Your local visitors bureau may be able have suggestions. Above all work within your own organization to assure a quality visit for all guests.

In 2005 a Michigan State University study on student travel indicated United States students ages 12 to 18 traveling without parents spent $9.8 billion. Northeast Ohio has been a major destination for these students travelers. And music performing students can make up a large part of traveling students. Establishing a reputation for hosting music performances may have a very positive impact on your annual attendance. Something to think about.