FAYETTEVILLE, Ark--Students from the University of Arkansas Bands recently completed a week of intensive musical study in Schladming, Austria as part of the World Youth Wind Orchestra Project. Victoria Bingham, Claire Gist, Josh Hannon, and Payton McCartney, all majors in the department of music, took part in the study abroad experience.

The World Youth Wind Orchestra Project (WYWOP) is part of the Mid Europe Wind Band Festival. This international gathering is one of the most prestigious wind music festivals featuring over 2,500 musicians with performances by 45 orchestras from 12 countries.

"Being in an orchestra with people from so many places really shows how music is the universal language." said Claire Gist, sophomore double major in music education and German from Tomball, Texas.

The annual event brings student-musicians from Asia, Europe, and North America for a week of cultural exchange and musical performances. Students rehearse classic masterworks and newly composed pieces with conductors and composers from North America and Europe while being immersed in the culture of the Austrian Alps.

"Meeting, rehearsing, and performing with so many musicians from around the world has been a highlight of my collegiate career" said Payton McCartney, sophomore music education major from Springdale.

"WYWOP is such an amazing musical experience, and being able to make new connections and friendships with people from all over the world made that experience even better!"  said Josh Hannon, junior music education major from Conway.

Held in Schladming, a former mining town that now is a winter sports destination, students explored the historic town core and hiked the mountain slopes that surround the city between their rehearsals and performances.

"This is a wonderful experience because it allows people from many different cultures to come together, share ideas, form lasting friendships, and make music" said Benjamin Lorenzo, associate director of bands and a featured conductor at the festival. "Our students did an outstanding job performing and representing our university.''

"This festival was challenging both musically and mentally, and I am excited to put what I learned back into my studies here at the U of A" said Victoria Bingham, junior music education major from Bixby, Oklahoma.

About the University of Arkansas Bands: The University of Arkansas Bands Program, part of the Department of Music in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences, began in 1874 and is one of the oldest band programs in the country. The program has six ensembles including the Razorback Marching Band, Hogwild Band, and four concert bands with over 400 student members representing every college at the university.