YM-Brochure-2017-18-V12-FINAL

2017/18 

Concert Tours for all Youth Music Ensembles 

Inspire their love of music on 

AN INTERNATIONAL 

CONCERT TOUR 

BELGIUM | PARIS | TUSCANY | PRAGUE | MALTA | NEW YORK | AND MORE 

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RAYBURN TOURS – YOUTH MUSIC 

WELCOME 

At Rayburn Tours, we see touring as an essential part of a young musician’s development 

which helps them prepare for a lifelong passion and devotion to music, or even a 

professional career as a performer. We take the greatest pride in offering memorable 

experiences to all musical ensembles and making performance dreams a reality, leaving 

groups with lasting memories and feeling inspired to continue making music. 

With over 50 years of experience creating tours for music ensembles, we know how much groups 

stand to gain from going on tour together. With the opportunity to bond as a unit and perform 

together frequently in exciting venues worldwide, going on tour brings ensembles together musically. 

In our 2017/2018 brochure, we are delighted to offer youth ensembles a wide range of 

concert tour destinations and performance venues, all chosen because they’re perfectly 

suited to youth groups. We design every tour to meet your specific needs, so whatever 

your sound and style, we will create a tour to match your performance objectives. 

We remain committed to providing great support before, during and after your tour, with Tour 

Consultants on hand to help you decide the best place to travel and specialist Tour Co-ordinators to 

work with you through the organisational process. With our new Party Leader Launch Pack, getting 

your tour off the ground has never been easier and we’re here to guide you through the process. 

We look forward to helping you create your Concert Tour! 

Jo Porter, Concert Tours Manager 

Jo Porter 

Eleanor Harvey 

Emily Thorp 

Joanna Matthews 

Alison Fox 

Edward Thorold 

Lynsey Kirby 

Rayburn Tours is made up of 90 specialists who are all busy working behind the 

scenes to help create the ultimate experience for you and your group. 

There are experts in Health and Safety, Customer Relations, Transport, Finance and Admin. But, it’s the Concert Tour 

Specialists who you’ll be working closely with before, during and after your tour, so it’s only right that you get to meet them. 

THE CONCERT TOURS TEAM 

These are the talented individuals who: 

• Put you at the heart of everything they do 

• Know our products inside and out 

• Have years of knowledge and experience behind them 

• Treat each group as if they were their only group 

• But most importantly, are dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences 

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email info@rayburntours.com 


CONTENTS 

The Rayburn Tours Difference 

Helping you create the perfect 

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5 

Concert Tour 

Travel in safe hands 

How will a Concert Tour benefit 

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your youth ensemble? 

Belgium 

Paris 

The Rhineland 

The Black Forest 

Four Countries Tour 

Lake Garda 

Lido di Jesolo and Venice 

Tuscany 

Prague and Western Bohemia 

Budapest 

Malta 

Catalonia 

New York 

Hong Kong and China 

The ‘Multi-Centre Tour’ 

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16 

20 

24 

28 

31 

32 

36 

39 

40 

44 

48 

50 

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The next steps 

Social Media Guide 

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Like us 

facebook.com/RayburnTours 

Follow us on Twitter 

@RayburnConcert 

Follow us on Instagram 

@Rayburn_Tours 

www.rayburntours.com 


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HELPING YOU CREATE THE 

PERFECT CONCERT TOUR 

COMPLETELY TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCE 

Venues to match your performance aims 

We will work with you to select the right performance venues for 

your repertoire. See our website for more venue options in your 

chosen destination. 

Preferred method of transport 

Whether you choose to travel by air or coach, we can advise the 

most appropriate and cost-effective route to your destination. 

The right accommodation 

All of our accommodation centres have been carefully selected 

based on their suitability for youth groups, as well as being fully 

audited to meet the STF’s standards and adhere to the health and 

safety standards set by our internal Safety Management System. 

DEDICATED SUPPORT FROM START TO FINISH 

You’ll start with one of our expert Tour Consultants who will 

take the time to fully understand your requirements before 

creating a tailor-made package. Your tour will then be allocated 

to a dedicated Tour Co-ordinator who will work with you to finetune 

your bespoke itinerary in the lead up to your departure. 

We’re here whenever you need us 

We have a 24-hour on-tour emergency 

contact system for your peace of mind. 

A comprehensive guide to launching your tour 

A vital part of running a tour is getting members to sign up. We’ve 

done the hard work for you by putting together a comprehensive 

Party Leader Launch Pack, saving you time and helping to make the 

process of getting members to sign up as straightforward as possible. 

This includes: 

• Guide to ‘Getting your tour off the ground’ 

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS 

We publicise your concerts 

We work with tourist boards, venue owners and online outlets to 

publicise your concerts, ensuring you have a good audience attendance. 

Trip Courier 

We can arrange for a courier to accompany you on tour to assist with all 

things logistic and linguistic, so all you need to concentrate on is the music! 

Instruments 

• Launch letter/email template to send to parents 

• A helpful guide to promoting your trip on social media 

• Poster template to promote the trip 

• PowerPoint template to use at an information evening 

• Guide to ‘Safety and Risk Management on Tour’ 

• Top tips for fundraising 

A member of the Rayburn Tours team may be 

available to attend a parents’ evening or to meet with 

other key decision makers, should you wish. 

We work with airlines and coach companies to ensure your 

instruments are carefully transported on your journey. Prefer to 

leave your instruments at home? We can hire the instruments 

you require so they’re ready and waiting for you! 

Trip hoodies and polo shirts 

Personalised hoodies or polo shirts are a great, lasting memento 

and a simple way to help spot members of your group on tour. 

Insurance 

We will provide your group with full travel insurance, which 

includes cover for all your musical instruments, so both you 

and your instruments are covered no matter what. 



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TRAVEL IN SAFE HANDS 

WITH RAYBURN TOURS 

Your safety is of the utmost importance to us and we monitor the safety aspects of all 

of our tours to ensure you have a memorable experience for all the right reasons. 

We also ensure your group’s money is protected with all the right experience, policies and accreditations 

behind us so you can have peace of mind that your safety and financial security is in the best of hands. 

Safety Matters 

As founding committee members of the School Travel Forum (STF), our 

independent Safety Management System meets the association’s standards in 

all areas, meaning our passengers are in safe hands. We also benefit from the 

expertise of our in-house Health and Safety Manager, as well as partnerships 

with external health and safety organisations. 

Our overall commitment to your safety on tour is 

covered in our three comprehensive handbooks: 

• Safety Management System Policy, which includes: 

Accommodation and coach operator audits 

Excursions and adventurous activities evaluation 

24-hour on-tour emergency contact 

DBS checked staff, couriers and coach drivers 

• Generic Risk Management Handbook 

• Crisis Management System 

School Travel Forum 

The School Travel Forum (STF) provides a benchmark for best practice in 

school travel, giving you the reassurance that we: 

• Understand and facilitate the needs of educational 

travel as determined by the STF 

• Manage safety effectively, meeting the STF’s 

benchmark for good school travel safety 

• Offer fair terms and conditions and the best financial security 

• Are fully inspected every year by independent experts 

Plan Your Trip with Confidence 

Rayburn Tours offers peace of mind with financial security in the form of: 

ABTA Bonding 

ATOL Licensing 

Personal travel insurance via our partner Endsleigh Insurance Services 

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HOW WILL A CONCERT TOUR 

BENEFIT YOUR YOUTH ENSEMBLE? 

Inspire their love of music 

Time and time again, party leaders remind us that there is no better 

way to inspire young musicians than by taking them on tour. Performing 

to international audiences in venues around the world will spark your 

members’ passion for music and open their eyes to the possibilities of 

performance. 

Group bonding 

Going on tour gives musicians the opportunity to bond as an ensemble and 

get to know each other on a new level, which is integral to the core activity 

of music making. Nothing reinforces trust and builds strong bonds like a 

trip away from home in exciting new realms. This, together with a musical 

focus, is sure to improve both the unity and blend of your ensemble. 

A goal to work towards 

A concert tour gives ensembles an exciting goal to work towards. It is 

the perfect incentive and motivation for your young musicians, who are 

then rewarded with the feeling of pride as they realise that all their hard 

work has paid off. 

Music development 

A concert tour gives ensembles the time and space to rehearse and 

perform together every day, as opposed to meeting for weekly rehearsals. 

Performing together in a condensed period of time allows your members 

to grow and develop as a group, as well as giving them the time to polish 

and fine-tune those hard to crack music pieces. 

Experience the world 

Whether you venture to a close-to-home European city or set your sights 

further afield, we can recommend the perfect destination for your group 

and we can help you fit in all the top excursions in order for your group to 

experience the local culture to its full. 

Face new challenges 

Take your ensemble members out of their usual way of life and 

let them face personal tests. Whether it’s being away from home, 

performing in a new environment or something as simple as trying 

unusual foreign delicacies, overcoming the test will increase selfconfidence, 

self-esteem and resilience. 

Lindley Junior School, Choir of the Year 



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Belgium 

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From medieval belfries and old-world castles, 

to contemporary museums and stylish cafés, 

Belgium is a historical haven with a modern twist. 

Whilst its quaint cobbled streets, winding canals and traditional 

boutiques give the country its endearing traditional charm, its 

collection of contemporary architecture and urban gems gives the 

Belgian cities an energetic and youthful buzz. The perfect closeto-home 

destination and our most cost-effective tour option, 

Belgium is an ever-popular choice for youth groups. Hop between 

the cities of Bruges, Ghent, Brussels and Ypres and experience 

the best of Belgium, performing in bustling market squares, 

impressive historical sites and stunning cathedrals along the way. 

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BELGIUM 

It was a wonderful experience for all of these 

young musicians, striking an excellent balance 

between social and performance opportunities 

in some beautiful locations across Belgium. 

Matt Greenwood, Churcher's College, Belgium, July 2016 



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TAKE PART IN THE 

First World War 

Centenary Commemorations 

Visit Ypres 

Bring a historical dimension to your tour with a day trip to Ypres. Visits to 

the In Flanders Fields Museum, Tyne Cot Cemetery and the reconstructed 

trenches at Passchendaele and Bayernwald will give your group a greater 

understanding of the conflicts of the First World War and, with the 

opportunity to perform as part of the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin 

Gate, your group can be a part of the Centenary commemorations. 

Perform at the Menin Gate 

The Menin Gate displays the names of over 54,000 British and 

Commonwealth soldiers who died in the First World War and have no 

known grave. At 8pm every evening, traffic through the gate is stopped 

as buglers from the local volunteer fire service play the Last Post. 

A memorable moment for many of our groups is the honour of 

performing as part of the Last Post Ceremony. This is always an 

emotional experience, made even more moving during the four 

year period of the First World War Centenary commemoration. 

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BELGIUM 

Our Top Two Performance Picks 

De Panne Promenade and Market Square 

Perfect for instrumental ensembles! 

Home to the widest beach on the Belgian coast, De Panne 

offers groups the opportunity to combine an afternoon 

concert with a day by the sea! During the summer 

months, the town’s promenade hosts a variety of events 

and passers-by are guaranteed to stop and listen to live 

music, making this the perfect coastal concert setting. 

The Ghent Festival 

Perfect for choirs and instrumental ensembles! 

In July, the city of Ghent comes to life as people from all over 

the world flock to enjoy Belgium’s most renowned arts festival. 

Attracting over 55,000 visitors each year, some 180 concerts are 

performed by over 1,500 international artists. Your ensemble 

can join in the festivities by performing on the main stage in 

Ghent’s central square or in one of the city’s beautiful churches. 

Discover more venue options in Belgium 

by visiting rayburntours.com. 

Send in your photos for 

the chance to win up to 

£200! 

Your time at leisure 

Belgium is a compact country, with many of its main attractions 

situated in close proximity. One of the most appealing things 

about a Belgium tour is the ease with which groups can 

hop between Bruges, Ghent, Ypres and Brussels. Wherever 

you choose to base your group, we will help you create an 

itinerary that will show your group the best of Belgium. 

• Admire the sights of Ghent and Bruges 

aboard a guided canal cruise 

• For thrills and spills, head to the Bobbejaanland 

Theme Park in Lichtaart 

• Learn about Ypres’ turbulent history during the First 

World War at the In Flanders Fields Museum 

Accommodation 

We offer a variety of quality accommodation options in 

Belgium which cater specifically for the needs of travelling 

youth ensembles, featuring rehearsal space and instrument 

storage. Whether you choose to stay in the heart of 

Bruges or a hostel in the Belgian countryside, we can 

recommend the accommodation centres to match your 

location preference, facility requirements and budget. 

CUWO Youth Band 

sent in this lovely snap 

Biggleswade Sea Cadets Marching Band, Belgium 



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Paris 

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From the grandeur of its famous churches, such 

as Notre Dame Cathedral and St Sulpice, to the 

impressive outdoor pavilions in the city’s beautiful 

parks and gardens, Paris has a range of venues to 

suit any repertoire. There is even the opportunity 

for groups to spread a little magic and perform at 

Disneyland Resort Paris! 

When you’re not performing in Paris, explore the city’s charming 

streets and discover its many impressive landmarks, world famous 

galleries and Parisian cafés. Being close to home, easy to get to 

and host to a number of spectacular venues, it’s no wonder that 

Paris is such a popular tour destination for youth ensembles. 

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PARIS, FRANCE 

A great experience. 

Rayburn Tours tailor-make the tour to match the group 

and deliver unbelievable performance experiences. 

Liz Green, Warwick School, Paris, October 2015 



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Disneyland Resort Paris 


Step into the magic and perform on the famous stage of 

Europe’s most visited themed attraction. A performance 

here gives groups the opportunity to go behind the 

Disney scenes and experience the glitz and glamour 

of the world’s most magical performance venue! 

Notre Dame Cathedral 

Perfect for choirs! 

Notre Dame Cathedral is renowned as one of the most 

significant examples of Gothic architecture in Europe and 

attracts 10 million visitors each year. A highlight for many 

choral groups is the opportunity to perform to a large 

audience in this magnificent, awe-inspiring venue. 

See more of our venue options on our website 

or call our team on 01332 347 828 and we can 

talk you through your performance possibilities! 

Notre Dame Cathedral 

Redla 

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PARIS, FRANCE 


Set your sights as high as the Eiffel Tower and extend 

that Paris to-do list for as long as time will allow. From 

the city’s artistic treasures and iconic landmarks 

to its chic boutiques and stylish cafes, there’s no 

end to the delights of picture-perfect Paris. 

• Visit the Eiffel Tower for panoramic views of the city 

• Stop off at Montmartre, the old artists’ quarter 

and home of the Sacre-Coeur Basilica 

• Take a cruise on the River Seine and seize the 

opportunity for an impromptu concert! 

Accommodation 

We offer a great selection of accommodation options 

in Paris, from budget-friendly hostels in the centre to 

good quality hotels on the outskirts of the city and within 

short driving distance to all the main attractions. 

NEX T STOP, 

NORMANDY! 

Looking for a French alternative to Paris? Brimming with 

museums, monuments, churches and concert halls, as 

well as beautiful parks and beaches, the historical French 

region of Normandy is a great choice for groups who 

want to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital. 

Visit rayburntours.com for more information 

on our concert tours to Normandy. 

Get in touch 

with our specialist 

0team on 

1 3 3 2 

3 4 7 

8 2 8 

Redland Green School, Disneyland Paris 



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Rhineland 

the 

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The Rhineland is our closest German 

destination from Calais, making it the perfect 

introduction to touring for first-timers as well 

as a great option for experienced groups. 

This beautiful region is steeped in history and offers a great choice of 

excursions for youth groups, ranging from Rhine steamer cruises and historic 

castles to the thrills and spills of Phantasialand theme park. Add to the 

mix performances in spa towns, market squares and renowned cathedrals 

and you have yourself a wonderful touring experience in rural Germany. 

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THE RHINELAND, GERMANY 

Brilliant organisation, concert venues, 

visits, accommodation and overall service! 

Jane Daniels, Frederick Gough High School, The Rhineland, July 2016 



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Bandstand and Marble Hall, Bad Ems 


Situated on the banks of the River Lahn, the spa town of 

Bad Ems offers ensembles a choice of two picturesque 

performance venues. Whether you choose to perform 

on the charming outdoor bandstand or in the beautiful 

Marble Hall in the Kurhaus, the spa guests will gather 

to enjoy afternoon concerts in this scenic setting. 

Florinskirche, Koblenz 


Located in the Old Town of Koblenz, Florinskirche is 

a fine example of medieval Romanesque architecture. 

Choirs are given a warm welcome at this venue and it’s 

one of our favourite choral options along the Rhine. 

Discover more venue options in 

The Rhineland by visiting rayburntours.com. 

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THE RHINELAND, GERMANY 


This picturesque region of Germany offers something 

for everyone. Its traditional charm, scenic landscapes 

and vibrant cities make it the perfect destination 

for city-seekers and scenic-lovers alike. 

• Soak up the scenic views on a River Rhine Cruise 

• Take the Rudesheim Cable Car up to the 

Niederwalddenkmal monument, or wind your 

way up to the top of Marksburg Castle 

• Enjoy a fun-filled day at Phantasialand Theme Park! 

Accommodation 

From family-run hotels in the centre of Boppard’s Old 

Town to good quality youth hostels situated on the River 

Rhine, we offer a range of accommodation options to suit 

your youth group’s requirements. With a choice of hotels 

and hostels ideally located across the region, travelling to 

and from venues and attractions couldn’t be easier! 



£200! 

Prudhoe High School 

sent us this pic from their tour 

Florinskirche, Koblenz 



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the 

Black Forest 

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Named after its dark canopy of evergreen trees, 

the Black Forest is arguably the most picturesque 

region of Germany. Here you’ll find the root of 

traditional Germany with rolling hills, quaint 

towns, beautiful lakes and winding river valleys. 

Whatever your sound and style, the Black Forest has a venue for you – 

whether it be performing by the charming lake in Titisee, entertaining 

the cafe-goers in Freudenstadt or singing to the congregation at St 

Johanneskirche. The Black Forest is a particularly popular destination for 

touring bands, owing to its impressive bandstands and outdoor venues. 

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THE BLACK FOREST, GERMANY 

A wonderful way to finish the academic 

year and say farewell to some fine upper 6th 

musicians in a very lovely part of the world. 

Richard Hanley, Thomas Mills High School, The Black Forest, July 2016 



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Saffron Walden County High School 



Baden-Baden Outdoor Stage 


Built in 1912 and located opposite the Kurhaus, this Art 

Nouveau-style outdoor stage is home to the Baden-Baden 

Philharmonic Orchestra and plays host to a number of 

visiting musicians throughout the year. This picturesque 

setting is very popular with visiting choirs and orchestras. 


The Black Forest by visiting rayburntours.com. 

Titisee Lakeside Bandshell 


Set in a prime location, overlooking the beautiful Lake 

Titisee, is one of the region’s most popular venues. Boasting 

stunning surroundings, the Pavilion attracts a great 

number of tourists seeking to enjoy lakeside concerts. 



£200! 

sent us this pic from their tour 

"This tour bonded our musicians together, we did great 

concerts and had a lot of fun. The concerts were well organised 

and the excursions were first rate. We had a super time." 

Gill Smith, Saffron Walden High School, The Black Forest, 2016 

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to find out more. 

THE BLACK FOREST, GERMANY 


However you choose to spend your time at leisure, 

whether it’s a cultural day out, an afternoon of theme 

park fun or a day spent discovering the region’s pictureperfect 

landscapes, the Black Forest has it all! 

Accommodation 

Many of our accommodation options in The Black Forest 

are located in the valleys, surrounded by stunning green 

landscapes with excellent views, as well as plenty of 

space for your groups to enjoy outdoor activities. 

• Visit the Brahms Museum in Baden-Baden where 

the composer spent his summer months 

• Take in the scenery with a walk up the side 

of Triberg, Germany’s highest waterfall 

• Travel back in time at the Vogtsbauernhof Open 

Air Museum and see what village life would 

have been like hundreds of years ago 

Get in touch 

with our team on 

01332 347 828 



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'Four Countries' 

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Spoilt for choice? Our ‘Four Countries’ tour offers 

ensembles a fuller European experience with the 

opportunity to travel and perform in Germany, 

Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg. 

Why settle for one when you can have four? 

A particularly popular choice for instrumental ensembles, this tour gives 

groups the option to base themselves in one country and enjoy performance 

opportunities in all four. Providing youth groups with the chance to gain 

an insight into different cultures and traditions as they journey from one 

country to the other, this tour is a great introduction to international travel. 

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FOUR COUNTRIES 



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Place d’Armes, Luxembourg 


Place d’Armes is situated in the heart of Luxembourg 

and is the main hub of city centre activity. With a large 

bandstand at its centre, surrounded by an abundance 

of cafes and restaurants, Place d’Armes is a fabulous 

location for a concert performance, especially in the 

summer months when the tourist season is in full flow. 

Efteling Theme Park, Holland 


The fairytale world of Efteling is full of adventure, 

imagination and excitement. Combine a unique performance 

opportunity with a day of theme park thrills and give your 

youth ensemble a fun-filled day they will never forget! 

Take a look at our range of 'Four Countries' 

venue options at rayburntours.com. 

"A fantastic tour. Singing in the church in Aachen was 

the most memorable of a host of memorable moments." 

Vikki Vincent, Holy Trinity School, Four Countries, 2016 

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FOUR COUNTRIES 


With more countries to explore, you will have more exciting 

excursions to choose from! You can cherry-pick a number of 

activities across Germany, Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg 

and we can help you work them into your itinerary. 

• Discover the fascinating history of Valkenburg 

Castle before journeying underground to 

explore the labyrinth of the Velvet Caves 

• An activity haven for visiting youth groups, Mosaqua 

Subtropical Swimming Paradise promises 

an afternoon of spectacular water fun! 

Accommodation 

The most important element to consider when choosing a 

base for your ‘Four Countries’ tour is its proximity to the 

borders, allowing for quick and easy access to the venues, 

excursions and sights across the four countries. We offer a 

choice of perfectly placed accommodation centres, ranging 

from centrally located family-run hotels in Valkenburg, to 

youth hostels in the rural areas of Belgium. As well as 

benefiting from prime locations, all of our accommodation 

centres offer superb facilities for youth groups. 

• Journey across the Netherlands by railway on the 

traditional De Miljoenenlijn Steam Train 

Dalton Town Band, Netherlands and Luxembourg 

Holy Trinity School, Four Countries 



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Lake Garda 

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Encompassing the perfect mix of sun, scenery 

and spectacular venues, a tour to the vibrant 

towns of Lake Garda promises a number of 

fantastic performance opportunities for youth 

music ensembles. 

With lovely hot summers, the location lends itself perfectly to performances 

in hilltop towns and lakeside squares in the midst of incredible mountainous 

scenery. Combined with the opportunity to cross over to Venice or Verona 

for the day, Lake Garda is the ideal base for your sunny concert tour. 

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LAKE GARDA, ITALY 

A life changing experience for 46 students who 

had a fantastic week away. If I were to identify the 

best moment of our tour it would be performing 

at Sirmione as the sun set behind us. 

A beautiful location and the highlight of our trip. 

Matthew Lorentzen, Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys, Lake Garda, July 2016 



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Piazza della Chiesa Levico Terme 


Performances in the Piazza della Chiesa are particularly 

atmospheric. Attended by a welcoming audience that 

gathers on the wide steps leading up to the hill and the 

entrance of the Church of the Redeemer, youth ensembles 

are certain to enjoy the unique ambience of this venue. 

Chiesa di Sant’Anastasia, Verona 


This Gothic church in the centre of Verona took over 200 

years to complete and is now the largest church in the city. 

Visiting choirs and orchestras will receive a warm welcome 

from the congregation and are sure to appreciate the 

experience of performing in such an ancient place of worship. 

For more venue options in 

Lake Garda, visit rayburntours.com. 


With the beautiful cities of Verona and Venice nearby, 

as well as a number of fun excursions by the lake itself, 

your group will be entertained from morning to night. 

Whether you want to head off in search of art and culture 

or give your group time to blow off some steam trying 

out the various lakeside activities, we’ll help you select 

the perfect excursions to complement your tour. 

• Your group can unwind at the popular theme and 

water parks of Gardaland and Canevaworld 

• Take to the water and explore the lake and its 

beautiful surroundings on a boat cruise 

• Visit the stunning city of Verona, famous 

for its star-crossed lovers! 

Accommodation 

There are many accommodation options to choose 

from in this region, but our favourites are located in 

the town of Riva del Garda in the northwest of the 

Lake Garda region. Situated on the edge of the Italian 

Alps and within close proximity to the beaches of Lake 

Garda, Riva del Garda is the perfect base for your tour. 

Tapton Youth Brass Band, Lake Garda 

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LIDO DI JESOLO AND VENICE, ITALY 

FROM LAKE GARDA TO 

LIDO DI JESOLO... 

If vibrant Venice is more your thing, why not consider a concert tour 

to the Veneto region? Soak up the culture and charm of the stunning 

‘City of Water’ and perform in the many quaint and characterful 

performance venues in Venice itself or in nearby Lido di Jesolo. 

Our Top Performance Pick 

St Mark's Basilica 


The opportunity to participate in sung Mass 

in Venice’s most famous church is a oncein-a-lifetime 

experience for visiting choirs. 

With the chance to sing three motets during 

Mass, choirs touring to Venice always cite 

this as a special highlight of the tour. 

For more information on a Concert 

Tour to Lido Di Jesolo, including 

more venues and excursions, 

visit rayburntours.com. 

Get in touch 


01332 347 828 




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Tuscany 

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This picturesque pocket of Italy is home to some of the 

world’s most iconic cities. Within its ten provinces, 

you’ll find Florence, Pisa and Siena where visits to the 

Uffizi Gallery, Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Campo 

are just a few of the unforgettable experiences on any 

tourist’s ticklist. 

Based in the beautiful spa town of Montecatini Terme, your group will 

be perfectly situated to visit these Italian cities with opportunities to 

perform in some of the most wonderful venues the region has to offer. 

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TUSCANY, ITALY 

It really was a fantastic time for everyone; 

every provision was of the highest level. I use 

Rayburn Tours since I had several successful 

tours with them as a young musician myself. 

Matt Dury, Bruton School for Girls, Tuscany, July 2016 



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Camping Barco Reale, Lamporecchio 


High up on the hills, Camping Barco Reale Holiday Park offers 

spectacular views across the Tuscan plains. Concerts are 

given in the park’s entertainment amphitheatre, where guests 

regularly attend live music performances. This venue is ideal 

for bands and choirs with a light and upbeat repertoire. 

Chiesa di San Filippo Neri, Florence 


This lovely church is located just behind Piazza della 

Signoria in the centre of Florence. Its beautiful Baroque 

interior houses some of the most beautiful artwork 

from 18th and 19th century Florence, providing a 

stunning performance space for visiting choirs. 


Tuscany is home to some of the most beautiful cities in 

the world, so make the most of your Tuscan adventure 

by getting out and about to explore the region! 

• Take the funicular railway to the medieval 

village of Montecatini Alto 

• Visit the home of Giacomo Puccini 

• Take a trip to Pisa and climb its famous leaning tower! 

Accommodation 

Preferring to base groups in Montecatini Terme, all 

of our accommodation options are centrally located 

in Tuscany and offer great facilities. We have good 

relationships with our accommodation centres in this 

region and hoteliers are known to pay special attention 

to our groups, ensuring you have a pleasant stay. 

Discover more performance possibilities in 

Tuscany at rayburntours.com. 

Epsom College Chapel Choir, Tuscany 

Chies 

34 

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TUSCANY, ITALY 

Tu 

on a two 

centre tour! 

Call our team on 

01332 347 828 

to start planning. 

Combine Tuscany and Venice 

e 

Chiesa di San Filippo Neri by Carlo Dell'Orto 



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Prague and 

Western Bohemia 

d 

With its old-world charm and uniquely preserved 

historical centre, Prague transports its visitors to 

different pockets of time with every corner turned. 

From morning to evening, the streets are bustling 

with tourists and with the city’s unique character, 

it’s easy to see why. 

In contrast, the quaint spa towns of Western Bohemia on the outskirts of 

the city provide a tranquil retreat that counters the hustle and bustle of 

Prague’s centre. We prefer to base choirs in Prague, within easy access of its 

beautiful church venues, and instrumental ensembles in Western Bohemia, 

close to the region’s lively bandstands and exquisite colonnades. You can 

combine performances and sightseeing opportunities in both regions. 

36 

call 01332 347 828 



PRAGUE AND WESTERN BOHEMIA, CZECH REPUBLIC 

Once again a perfect balance of excellent 

venues and well planned activities. I've used 

Rayburn many times and have always found them 

to be efficient and very sensitive to the needs 

of my groups. I know I will always get excellent 

service and the trips will be just as I requested. 

Caroline Moss, Beaconfield High School, Prague and Western Bohemia, July 2016 



37 




St Nicholas Church, Prague 


Situated in the heart of the Old Town Square, St Nicholas 

Church is one of Prague’s most famous Baroque 

churches. Visiting choirs can perform in this beautiful, 

historic building and groups often remark on the church’s 

inviting atmosphere and incredible acoustics. 

Colonnade, Marianske Lazne 


An accumulation of quaint spa towns, Western Bohemia 

is a tranquil retreat that counters the hustle and bustle of 

Prague city centre. As one of the most beautiful spa towns 

in the Czech Republic, locals and tourists flock to Marianske 

Lazne to enjoy the area’s stunning parks and relaxing 

atmosphere. The colonnade is located in the centre of the 

parks and suitable for all ensembles. Equipped with a large 

performance stage, this is a popular choice for orchestras. 

For more venue options in Prague and 

Western Bohemia visit rayburntours.com. 


Soak up the city’s cultural heritage as you visit the main 

tourist hubs, including the Old Town Square, Prague 

Castle and the Charles Bridge, as well as the hidden 

gems that give the city its colourful undertones. 

• See Prague in all its illuminated splendour 

on a Vltava Dinner Cruise – a perfect 

way to enjoy your last night on tour! 

• Explore the grounds of Prague Castle, visit the 

stunning St Vitus Cathedral and wander the historic 

Golden Lane for a taste of old-world charm 

• Enjoy traditional Czech and Moravian food 

alongside live music and traditional folk dance 

at the Stary Vrch folklore show and dinner 

Accommodation 

We offer a range of great accommodation options all 

situated within easy reach of the centre of Prague. We 

often recommend Hotel Duo to touring groups due to its 

friendly atmosphere, close proximity to transport links 

and the handy bonus of instrument storage space. 

Colonnade, Mariánské Lázně 

38 

call 01332 347 828 



PRAGUE AND WESTERN BOHEMIA, CZECH REPUBLIC 

IF YOU LIKE PRAGUE, 

YOU’LL LOVE BUDAPEST! 

With a fascinating history, popular classical music scene and beautiful 

cityscape, Budapest is one of Europe’s most unique and picturesque cities. 

Retaining their distinct identities to this day, the former independent 

cities of Buda and Pest offer an array of beautiful landmarks 

and architectural gems. In Buda, you’ll find royal palaces, ancient 

history and quaint spas, while over the Danube River in Pest, you 

can experience the bustling cosmopolitan hub of the city. 


St Stephen's Basilica 


St Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church 

in Budapest and has been a hugely 

significant part of the city’s musical 

community since its consecration in 1905. 

Your ensemble will have the opportunity 

to enjoy the building’s incredible acoustics 

as you perform to a large and appreciative 

audience in this iconic venue. 

For more information on a 

Concert Tour to Budapest, including 

more venues and excursions, 

visit rayburntours.com. 



39 



Malta 

d 

A haven of rolling limestone plains, lofty sea 

cliffs and crystal aquamarine waters, Malta’s 

charm lies in its picturesque landscapes, quaint 

coastal towns and fascinating history. 

With an ancient history that stretches back to 5200 BC and an 

architectural fusion of temples, ancient walled-towns and great fortresses, 

this old-world region has a diverse collection of grand performance 

venues (365 churches to be exact!). The island’s natural beauty extends 

from its stunning coastline to its enchanting parks and idyllic gardens, 

offering ample opportunity for outdoor performances on warm evenings. 

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call 01332 347 828 



MALTA 



41 




Zebbug Parish Church, Gozo 

Perfect for choirs and orchestras! 

The Church of St Mary the Assumption (Zebbug Parish 

Church) is an outstanding performance venue. The 

interior is adorned with Gozo onyx and offers an 

elaborate setting for a post-service evening concert. 

Discover more performance possibilities 

in Malta at rayburntours.com. 

Tal-Ghazzenin, St Paul's Bay 


The picturesque fishing harbour of St Paul’s Bay is one of 

Malta’s principal tourist resorts on the northeastern coast. 

The 17th century St Paul’s Tower provides the perfect 

backdrop for an evening concert. Locals and tourists gather 

at St Paul’s Bay to watch performances on summer evenings. 

"Great fun for all concerned - a lovely 

balance of activities and music." 

Angus Meryon, Putney High School, Malta, 2016 

Gres 

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call 01332 347 828 



sent us this pic performing in Mdina 

MALTA 


Admire Malta’s endearing charm, uncover its hidden 

treasures and lose your heart to its exceptional beauty 

as you explore everything the region has to offer. 

• There’s no better way to discover Malta’s capital city 

than on a guided tour. Visit some of Valletta’s most 

wonderful sights, including the Grand Master’s Palace 

• Take a day trip to Malta’s sister island of Gozo 

which has a charming character all of its own 

• Explore the medieval walled town of Mdina and 

admire panoramic views over the island 

Accommodation 

We offer quality accommodation options in the 

prime location of St Paul’s Bay. Only 15km from 

Valletta, this is a wonderful base from which to 

explore the surrounding towns and villages. 



£200! 

Lichfield Cathedral Choir 

Get in touch 

with our specialist 

0team on 

1 3 3 2 

3 4 7 

8 2 8 

Greshams Prep School, Malta 



43 



Catalonia 

d 

A tour to the Catalonia region of Spain offers 

ensembles the chance to combine a variety of exciting 

performance opportunities with sun, sea and sand. 

From the natural beauty of the Costa Brava 

coastline to the bustling city of Barcelona, a tour to 

this Spanish region offers the best of both worlds. 

From esteemed venues, such as Barcelona Cathedral, to stunning 

coastal venues in Tossa de Mar, there’s a range of beautiful performance 

spaces to choose from. The region’s atmospheric venues welcome 

large and appreciative audiences of both locals and tourists who 

gather to enjoy evening concerts on warm, summer nights. 

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call 01332 347 828 



CATALONIA, SPAIN 

It was a fantastic opportunity for our 

students, many of whom said it was the 

best week in their entire school career. 

Peter Worth, Southend High School for Boys, Catalonia, July 2016 



45 




Barcelona Cathedral 


This Gothic masterpiece has played a prominent part in 

the history of Barcelona, attracting thousands of tourists 

every year. Performing in this prestigious and internationally 

renowned venue is often a highlight for visiting choirs. 

Passeig Mossen Cinto Verdaguer, Tossa de Mar 


Large audiences gather on the seaside promenade in Tossa 

de Mar to enjoy concerts on warm summer evenings. 

Set against a picturesque backdrop of castle ruins, this 

venue is a fantastic option for youth ensembles looking 

to enjoy an atmospheric promenade performance. 

To see more venue options in 

Catalonia, visit rayburntours.com. 


Whether you’re a culture vulture, a city lover or 

a sun-seeker, there’s something for everyone on 

a tour to the Spanish region of Catalonia. 

• Admire Gaudi’s architectural masterpiece, La 

Sagrada Familia, before taking a stroll along 

the city’s most famous street, Las Ramblas 

• Enjoy a day of splashing and swimming 

at Waterworld Waterpark 

• Soak up the Spanish culture at a Flamenco show! 

Accommodation 

The hotels we use in the coastal resorts of the Costa 

Brava are of an extremely good standard and perfect 

for youth groups. Expect to find central locations 

within easy reach of beaches, games rooms and, 

of course, the all-important swimming pools! 

Barcelona Cathedral 

St Be 

46 

call 01332 347 828 




CATALONIA, SPAIN 

Get in touch 


01332 347 828 

St Benedicts School, Catalonia 



47 



New York 

d 

From famous American landmarks and 

architectural treasures, to curiosity shops and 

1950s diners, set your sights as high as the NYC 

skyscrapers on a concert tour to New York! 

The C 

An epicentre for art, fashion, music, commerce and business, 

the streets of New York are buzzing with energy from morning 

to night. The city's status as a melting pot of musical genres and 

fusions is what makes it the perfect destination for your tour, 

with a number of special performance venues on offer. 

48 

call 01332 347 828 



NEW YORK, USA 

The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine 


Central Park Naumburg Bandshell 


This iconic outdoor amphitheatre is renowned for its 

summertime concerts, having been a centre of live music 

for over 100 years. In addition to its musical legacy, the 

Naumburg Bandshell also holds a historical significance 

as the site of a speech delivered by Martin Luther King 

Jr. Performing here is a fantastic opportunity for your 

group to visit an important historical site, whilst enjoying 

a performance in the world’s most famous park! 

The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine 


The Cathedral of the Episcopal Diocese of New York is one 

of the largest Anglican churches in the world. A spectacular 

building to perform in, the cathedral attracts a number of choral 

groups from around the world every year. Your ensemble can 

enjoy a very special performance opportunity, accompanying 

the choir of Saint John the Divine in Mass or Evensong. We 

can also arrange informal performances for visiting choirs. 


There’s no limit to the diversity that New York City offers. 

Whilst a left-turn takes you down a neon-lit walkway of 

unapologetic glitz, a right-turn leads you through cobbled lanes 

of quaint cafés and endearing old-world bookshops. Whatever 

you want to see and do, we can make it work for you! 

• Before delving into the city itself, take in the 

panoramic views from the Empire State Building 

• Hop aboard a boat cruise to Liberty Island to see 

the iconic torch-bearing Roman Goddess 

• Make sure you ‘give your regards to Broadway’ – no tour to 

New York would be complete without a Broadway Show! 

Accommodation 

With a number of excellent hotel and hostel options in 

Manhattan, your group will be perfectly based to explore 

the city and all its main attractions, including Times 

Square and Central Park. Our favourite option is the highly 

recommended Hotel Pennsylvania which offers comfortable 

and affordable rooms in the heart of Manhattan. 


New York by visiting rayburntours.com. 



49 



Hong Kong 

and 

China 

Chinad 

Vibrant, dynamic and full of contrasts, Hong Kong 

transports its visitors into a world of commercial 

grandeur, colourful traditions and lush nature. 

Whilst knockout skyscrapers cluster around the busy harbour, 

a short journey into the hills is all that’s needed for some peace 

and quiet. Explore more of China and visit its equally beautiful 

though strikingly contrasting cities of Shanghai and Beijing! 

St Jo 

50 

call 01332 347 828 



HONG KONG AND CHINA 

St John's Cathedral 


St John’s Cathedral, Hong Kong 


Situated in the heart of Hong Kong’s financial district, this 

beautiful cathedral is the oldest church in the city. With the 

opportunity to perform at services and weekly recitals, visiting 

choirs will receive a warm welcome at St John’s Cathedral. 

Discover more venue options in China and 

Hong Kong by visiting rayburntours.com. 

Accommodation 


Where modern cityscapes rub shoulders with ancient 

architecture, and commercial-soaked streets contrast with 

natural landscapes, your group will discover the beautiful 

diversity of Hong Kong and the cultural heritage of China. 

• Take the Ngong Ping 360 cable-car to see 

the Tian Tan Buddha in Hong Kong 

• Explore a section of the Great Wall of China 

• Take a guided tour of Tiananmen Square followed 

by a visit to the Forbidden City in Beijing 

From the Jockey Club Mount Davis Youth Hostel, with 

its sublime views over Victoria Harbour, to the King’s Joy 

Hostel near Tiananmen Square, we use a range of quality 

youth hostels across Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai. 



51 



52 

call 01332 347 828 



THE 'MULTI-CENTRE TOUR' 

The Multi-Centre Tour 

On a multi-centre tour, you can split your time between 

two, three or even four countries, opening up an even 

greater choice of amazing performance opportunities and 

bringing an exciting edge to your European experience. 

Our ‘Two-Stop Tour’ Recommendations 

Belgium and The Rhineland 

On a ‘Two-Stop Tour’ to Belgium and the Rhineland, your ensemble 

can perform in Belgium’s coastal town of De Panne, in the stunning 

cathedrals of Ghent and Bruges or take part in the Last Post 

Ceremony at the Menin Gate, before journeying on to the Rhineland’s 

charming hillside villages and old-world cities. Here, you can perform 

in the region’s beautiful spa-town venues and market squares. 

Abbey Gate College Choir went on a ‘Two-Stop Tour’ to Belgium and 

the Rhineland this summer and rated their tour experience as 5-star. 

With stops scheduled in Ypres, Ostend, Koblenz and Cologne, the 

choir enjoyed a fully-rounded, action-packed tour, singing in some 

of the most beautiful venues across Belgium and the Rhineland. 

Tuscany and Venice 

Where the stunning scenery of the Tuscan countryside meets 

the winding waterways and cobbled streets of Venice, a two-stop 

tour to Tuscany and Venice offers your group a tantalising taste 

of Italy. Tick off the region’s top ‘to-dos’ with visits to Florence, 

Pisa and Siena and perform in traditional Italian churches before 

a finale performance in Venice’s esteemed St Mark’s Basilica. 

More ‘Multi-Centre Tour’ Options 

Whether you have the perfect pair-up in mind or you 

want to talk through your multi-centre tour options, 

call our team on 01332 347 828 to find out more. 



53 



THE NEXT STEPS 

1. GET IN TOUCH 

Our team is on hand to discuss your tour options with you. 

Whether you simply want to find out more about a concert 

tour or you’re ready to get your tour underway, we can offer 

specialist advice and talk through your requirements. 

2. QUOTATION 

Following a conversation with your dedicated Tour 

Consultant, we will provide you with a quotation that 

matches your tour requirements. At this stage, we 

will also make a few performance suggestions. 

3. WE'LL TAILOR-MAKE YOUR TOUR 

This is where we invest as much time as possible to make 

sure your tour is perfect for you and your group. We will look 

into possible venues and performance ideas, taking your 

group’s repertoire and requirements into account. We can 

also organise for a member of our team to come and meet 

you to discuss your requirements in more detail. Then we’ll 

work together to tweak your quote until it is right for you! 

4. LAUNCH YOUR TOUR 

The big launch can be a bit daunting, but with the help of our Party 

Leader Launch Pack, we can provide you with everything you need to 

get your tour off the ground. With a step-by-step guide to launching 

your tour, personalised PowerPoint presentations and the option for 

a member of our team to give a presentation to your group members, 

our number one aim is to make the launch as easy as possible for you. 

5. BOOKING YOUR TOUR 

It’s time to book your tour! Set a payment date for your 

members to submit their deposits, fill in our online booking 

form and forward your deposits to Rayburn Tours. 

6. FINE-TUNING YOUR ITINERARY 

At this stage, we will introduce you to your dedicated Tour 

Co-ordinator who will work with our contacts to fine-tune 

all elements of the tour in the lead up to your departure. 

We will organise your performances and help you select the 

best activities to work around your performance schedule. 

We will also work to publicise your concerts, as well as 

support you with all the administration of the tour. 

Remember that your dedicated Tour Co-ordinator is only 

a phone call away and happy to answer any questions 

you have – before, during and after your tour! 

Save up to £15 PP* with our 

EARLY BOOKING 

DISCOUNT & 

LOYALTY SCHEME 

Any group size 

Any destination 

Any duration 

*VISIT RAYBURNTOURS.COM OR 

CALL 01332 347 828 TO FIND OUT MORE. 

54 

call 01332 347 828 



LET’S GET SOCIAL 

You’re about to embark on an exciting journey with your group, so why not share your experience with the world? 

Capture the moments and share the memories of your trip by blogging about your adventures, sharing them on social media 

and sending us your tour snaps for a chance to win up to £200! 

It’s a great way to keep friends, family, parents and your group updated and let them share the experience with you, as well 

as something to look back on in years to come. 

WHY BLOG? 

Documenting your tour is a great way to capture the 

fleeting moments of your time away and is also a great 

project for the creative writers in your group! A blog 

keeps parents (and us!) in the know with regular updates, 

so we can get your personal account (as well as a little 

travel envy!) whilst you’re out there experiencing it all. 

HOW TO BLOG 

Ask your dedicated Tour Co-ordinator for your own 

personal log-in and we’ll help you get set up straight 

away. Get typing, get posting and your blog will appear 

on the Rayburn Concert blog: 

www.rayburntours.com/concert/blog/. 

WHY TWEET? 

With quick and simple updates, you can let everyone 

know how your tour is going with a tap of your finger! 

Tweeting photos and short, snappy lines is a great way 

to share your experiences with friends and family and 

keep them in the loop. It’s also a useful way to stay 

clued up on any travel updates en route! 

HOW TO TWEET 

Create a Twitter account specific to your group and let 

friends and family (and us!) know about it so we can 

follow your travels. It’s also a great idea to create your 

own hashtag for your tour! 

Follow us @RayburnConcert. 

WHY INSTAGRAM? 

Create an album full of touring highs and musical 

moments on Instagram, allowing friends, family and the 

RT team to see all your dreamy destination shots, 

performance pics and tour treats! 

HOW TO INSTAGRAM 

Set up an Instagram account specific to your group, 

snap away, filter up and pop in your hashtags... #easy! 

(Don’t forget to pop us in too!). 

@Rayburn_Tours #RayburnConcert 

Everybody say cheese! 

To all you budding photographers, holiday snappers and creative 

clickers, capture your landscape loves and performance pics and send us 

your photos for a chance to win up to £200 – now there’s a reason to smile for the camera! 



55 


We also 

offer... 

Call or visit 

us online 

for details. 

GEOGRAPHY TRIPS 

HISTORY TRIPS LANGUAGE TRIPS SPORTS TOURS SKI TRIPS 

CLASSICS TRIPS • BUSINESS STUDIES TRIPS • RELIGIOUS STUDIES TRIPS • ART TRIPS • CULTURAL TRIPS 

“Our tour was an unforgettable 

experience that enriched the 

musical lives of our students and 

created a lot of happy memories.” 

Elizabeth Smith, Tring School, Venice, 2016 

Rayburn Tours also specialise in concert tours for 

adult choirs and bands. 

DISCOVER 

ayburntours.com 

r 

MORE! 

Visit rayburntours.com to find out more! 

Rayburn Tours | Rayburn House | Brunel Parkway | Pride Park | Derby | DE24 8HR 

Tel. 01332 347 828 | Fax. 01332 340 940 | info@rayburntours.com

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