Cheers erupted in the Marist High School band room when students learned they would be taking their next major performance tour to Central Europe in the spring of 2027.
Andrew Creagh, Band Director at Marist and an alumnus from the Class of 2004, shared the news with more than 100 students spanning all grade levels in the band. “After months of planning, we are thrilled to give our students this incredible opportunity to perform internationally,” Creagh said. “It’s going to be a week they’ll never forget.”
Creagh, who has led the Marist band for 20 years, earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Education from VanderCook College of Music and a master’s in Teacher Leadership from the American College of Education. He said the best part of teaching band is “working with kids and helping them experience and perform music. I enjoy seeing my students grow musically throughout their four years in the program.”
The Central Europe tour will take the band to Vienna, Salzburg, and Prague for a series of public performances and cultural experiences. While there, students will tour the filming locations of The Sound of Music, visit Mozart’s birthplace, attend a symphony orchestra concert, and explore historic churches and castles.
“We are so blessed and fortunate to be able to perform internationally,” Creagh said. “Our band is known for touring every year, but once we performed in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland a few years ago, we knew that our program was ready to perform in new and exciting places. These amazing tours would not be possible without the work of our current students, as well as our Marist band alumni who came before.”
Students shared their excitement about the trip. John Alfano, a trombone player in the Class of 2027, said, “For our upcoming tour next year, I am excited for the possibility of performing in different parts of Central Europe and even seeing Mozart’s house. I really look forward to experiencing the rich musical history of this area!”
Flute player and drum major Julia Bishop, also Class of 2027, added, “I feel very fortunate to be a part of the Marist Marching Band family and now to travel overseas to represent our school. I was in complete shock to learn that we will be touring three countries. I am most looking forward to seeing Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic for the first time. I have never been to Europe, and to be able to go with my friends and play my flute is so exciting. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am ready to make unforgettable memories.”
Founded in 1963 by Frank Manna, the Marist High School Band has long been a cornerstone of the Chicagoland community, performing at high-profile events including the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, the National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade in Honolulu, Chicago White Sox Opening Day, and Disney World performances every four years. The band has also appeared on national television, including The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
Creagh thanked the school administration, band parents, alumni, and students for making the trip possible. “These tours are a celebration of our students’ dedication and the entire Marist Band family’s support,” he said.