West Bend, Wi – Norah Petersen of West Bend, Wi, experienced the culture, food, history and architecture of Japan this summer as part of the Luther College Concert Band’s international tour — the ensemble’s first international tour since 2017.
“Visiting Japan was a wonderful experience,” Petersen said. “I enjoyed trying new foods, sightseeing, performing, shopping and getting to meet Japanese musicians.”
Petersen is a sophomore majoring in music education at Luther. Petersen plays the flute in the Concert Band at Luther.
The Concert Band, which is made up of 60 students, performed in Kyoto, Hakone, Nagoya and Tokyo. The ensemble performed in several exchange concerts with musicians from four high school bands and one university band.
The tour took place from May 28 through June 9, and included many culturally significant stops, such as Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi and the Fushimi Inari Shrine.
“I was blown away by the kindness and hospitality the Japanese students and staff showed us,” Petersen said. “These Japanese schools had all their students stand outside and wave goodbye to us. It was a heartwarming moment.”
International tours provide an opportunity for Luther students to experience the diversity of music throughout the world. The last time that the Concert Band traveled to Japan was in 2010.
“Japan, specifically, is a band powerhouse. Their appreciation for the art form of ‘band’ is world-renowned,” said Cory Near, director of Concert Band. “Our students experienced just a sliver of that reputation. Additionally, the experience of sharing music, a truly universal language, was extremely rewarding.”
Concert Band is Luther College’s principal band ensemble. The band was formed in 1878, laying the foundation of what would become the college’s long-standing tradition of musical excellence. Concert Band is now one of the oldest touring organizations in the nation and ranks among the country’s outstanding undergraduate college bands.
“These tours allow students to grow as individuals as they immerse themselves in a new culture. After speaking with many of them, the students shared with me how much they learned during our time in Japan, not just as musicians, but as people,” Near said.
About Luther College
At Luther College in beautiful Decorah, Iowa, students explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.
