A Musical Journey with the Washington Ambassadors of Music

By Karlene Sandoval, Sumner High School Choir Teacher 

This past summer, music took us far beyond the borders of Washington State and onto some of the world’s most celebrated stages.

From July 12–27, I had the incredible honor of serving as one of only two choral directors from the state of Washington selected to conduct with the Washington Ambassadors of Music, the other being Dr. Matthew Myers from WSU. Alongside talented student musicians and educators from across the state, I had the privilege of helping represent Washington through music while experiencing the extraordinary cultures and history of Europe.

The Washington Ambassadors of Music brought together more than 80+ outstanding student performers from communities throughout Washington, representing four musical ensembles: concert band, jazz band, orchestra, and choir. Together, these young musicians embarked on a remarkable journey through five European countries and several unforgettable destinations, sharing their music with audiences along the way.

Our travels took us to London, England; Paris, France; Crans-Montana, Switzerland; Bad Hofgastein, Austria; and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany. Each destination offered its own unique history, beauty, and cultural experiences, but it was the music that continually connected us.

As a conductor, one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience was watching students from different schools and communities come together as one musical family. In a remarkably short amount of time, students who had never performed together before learned to listen to one another, support one another, and create something greater than any individual could accomplish alone. That is one of the great gifts of music—and it was on full display throughout this journey.

I was especially proud to share this experience with three talented students from Sumner High School: Stella A., Chloe F., and Harper H. Their participation represented not only the strength of our music program at Sumner High School, but also the dedication, musicianship, and adventurous spirit of our students.

Seeing these students perform internationally was an especially meaningful part of the trip. They represented Sumner with enthusiasm and pride while embracing every opportunity to learn, perform, explore, and grow. Experiences like this remind us that music education extends far beyond the classroom. It creates opportunities for students to see the world, build lifelong friendships, develop confidence, and understand the powerful role that music can play in bringing people together.

From the grandeur and history of London and Paris to the breathtaking Swiss Alps, the charm of Austria, and the medieval beauty of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, every stop gave us new memories to carry home. Yet perhaps the most memorable part of the journey was hearing more than 80+ young Washington musicians fill international venues with the sound of music.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have served as a choral director with the Washington Ambassadors of Music. To conduct alongside other Washington choral directors, collaborate with outstanding educators, and work with such talented young musicians was truly an honor.

Most of all, I am grateful for the students who made this journey so special. Their hard work, courage, curiosity, and musicianship were a wonderful reminder of why we teach music in the first place.

Washington music made its way to Europe this summer—and it made quite an impression.

For Stella, Chloe, Harper, and the more than 80+ student musicians who participated, this was more than a concert tour. It was an unforgettable musical adventure, a celebration of Washington’s young artists, and a chance to share the universal language of music with the world.

What an honor to have been asked to participate this summer and to be asked to conduct again in 2028! Make sure to be on the lookout for information about this incredible opportunity and ways to have your student travel with me in 2028.