Let’s face it: as cool as musical tours are, the real reason you are going anywhere is to show off your group’s talent. Sharing music is a cultural experience and a beautiful way to communicate in a language that everyone understands! However, booking and confirming venues can be tricky. As a director, you want to make sure that your repertoire is going to show off the best qualities of your ensemble while keeping in mind the restrictions of some spaces. Here are some useful tips on choosing your repertoire to make sure you know your stuff! ▶ Sacred or Secular It’s a good idea to keep a mix of both sacred and secular pieces within your ensemble’s repertoire. Some venues may not accept secular repertoire, but it’s not a bad idea to have a good selection of tricks in the bag. ▶ Performing at Masses Europe in particular has some grandiose cathedrals that offer a truly powerful acoustic experience for an ensemble. Generally, you do not have to be of that religious denomination to sing, but be careful when choosing repertoire for these places. Most adhere to a strict “sacred music only” policy. Additionally, it is custom to follow a modest dress code. There should be no shoulders showing and no knees exposed. Mass parts are typically sung in either the language of the country or Latin. English versions of the Mass parts must seek approval. Traditionally, visiting choirs are allowed to sing only at four parts: Introit, Offertory, Communion and Exit. ▶ Variety with Composers As amazing as it sounds to perform Mozart’s Requiem in Stephansdom—the very place it was composed—the Austrians have heard the same thing for hundreds of years. Instead of going on like a broken record, it’s a good idea to switch up the composers. Variety is the spice of life! ▶ Proper Permission to Perform Copyright laws don’t magically disappear once you clear the airport check-in. If you aren’t playing a piece memorized, be sure you have the original copies in tow. “Bach” it up! ▶ American Element This is a cultural exchange! Don’t be afraid to bring a bit of home with you to share. Audiences love some American authenticity. It is a good idea to switch up the program with some American folk songs, rousing gospel music, a rock & roll standard, or a fun pop mash up. Download our free whitepaper on how to program your Mass today!
November 2, 2026 Encore Tours Venue Spotlight: Vienna’s St. Stephen’s Cathedral Explore St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna: its history, its deep ties to Haydn and Mozart, and what it’s like for your ensemble to perform there. Backstage Blog
October 27, 2026 Encore Tours Music Tour Planning Mistakes: 7 Horror Stories to Avoid Every music director has heard one. The tour where the price went up after families had already paid. The concert where the ensemble outnumbered the audience. Backstage Blog
October 21, 2026 Encore Tours Meet Encore Tours at the 2026 Midwest Clinic Encore Tours is heading to The 80th Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference, taking place December 16–18, 2026, at McCormick Place West in Chicago. Backstage Blog