Bands of Randolph students traveled to Boston for a three-day-long trip filled with performances, sightseeing and team-building activities from April 16-18.

Band Directors Michael Lichtenfeld and Nick Fantazzi planned the trip as a way to offer students a chance to grow musically while exploring one of the country’s most historic cities.

“The trip was an amazing experience for our students and offered meaningful learning in many different ways,” Lichtenfeld said. “Hearing the New England Conservatory Jazz Orchestra and the Harvard Wind Ensemble provided powerful examples of high-level college musicianship and helped students better understand what is possible beyond high school.”

“Along with our side-by-side rehearsal in Dartmouth and exploring Boston through activities like the Duck Tours, the trip provided a well-rounded experience built on learning, curiosity and shared experiences,” Lichtenfeld added.

Day 1

The trip began at noon on Thursday, April 16, when the band students departed for the five-hour drive to Boston. With the help of snacks, music and movies, students made the most of the long ride.

By 5 p.m., they arrived at their first stop, Quincy Market, where students had an hour of free time for food, souvenirs and exploring.

Afterward, the group attended a New England Conservatory jazz orchestra performance with front-row seats.

Day 2

After a night’s rest, students attended a group breakfast before heading to Dartmouth High School for a clinic with Northeastern University director Allison Betsold. The band worked on two pieces, “Byzantine Dances” and “On a Hymn Song.” Following the clinic, they had lunch with Dartmouth students.

The group later met with Betsold and Northeastern students for a campus walking tour and a Q&A session with three students and three professors involved in music programs. Students learned about continuing music after high school and different career paths in the field.

The band then had lunch at Fire + Ice, a hibachi restaurant, before heading to Harvard for another Q&A session and a performance by the Harvard Wind Ensemble, which included a premiere piece.

Day 3

On the final day, the group participated in the Boston Duck Tours, riding amphibious vehicles that travel on both land and water. Despite road closures ahead of marathon week, guides adapted the route. Students briefly drove the vehicle and took photos while learning about the city’s history.

After the tour, the band had lunch at the California Pizza Kitchen before returning to Randolph. Many students slept during the ride home, with cheers erupting when the bus reached Route 10.

Overall, the Boston trip provided a memorable and educational experience for students and chaperones.