These hills are alive with the sound of music – and your ensemble is playing! This April, showcase your band at the Gatlinburg Music Workshop in the magnificent Smoky Mountains.
Talented band students from around the region and across the nation are invited to participate in the Gatlinburg Music Workshop.
It takes place at the beautiful Gatlinburg Convention Center in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. You’ll have extended time with a highly-esteemed educator both virtually and in-person as part of your pre-performance prep and clinic.
Then, your band, choir, or orchestra will perform on the convention center stage, which is renowned for its exceptional acoustics.
The Gatlinburg Music Workshop Includes
Pre-visit Prep Conference/Zoom Call with Clinician
Clinic with Esteemed Educator/Conductor
Written and/or Recorded Critique
Ensemble Award Plaque
Ensemble Photo for Director (taken during the clinic)
Standard Set of Percussion (additional percussion can be rented)
Price: $99/Performer
Best Performance Tips for Music Students
While You’re Here
The Smoky Mountain region is packed with student-friendly adventures and ready to welcome your group!
As you plan your performance, be sure to include a few extra days to take in the sights (and sounds!) of the Smoky Mountains.
A Few Must-Dos
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
With more than 800 miles of hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and a wide variety of wildlife to explore, the park is the perfect place to practice eco-tourism.
Here you’ll find scenic hikes suitable for all fitness levels, including those with limited mobility. From the Tremont area to the popular Clingmans Dome trail, there are options for everyone to embrace the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
Don’t forget to pack boxed lunches and picnic in Cades Cove, a pretty little picnic area tucked between Abrams Creek and Green Branch Creek.
Dollywood
No visit to the Smoky Mountains is complete without a trip to Dollywood, the award-winning theme park owned by country music legend Dolly Parton. Dollywood offers a wide range of attractions, from thrilling rides to world-class shows.
Be sure to catch the spectacular shows that showcase the region’s rich musical heritage and Dolly Parton’s celebrated talent. With its student-friendly atmosphere and wide range of activities, Dollywood is a must for your band students.
Anakeesta Adventure Park
Situated on a mountaintop and surrounded by stunning views, Anakeesta is an adventure! Zip down the mountain through breathtaking twists and turns on a mountain coaster, and then challenge your friends to dueling ziplines.
Pirates Voyage Dinner Show
It’s an adventure on the high seas as the notorious pirate Blackbeard and his crew engage in a battle or the ages. Full-sized pirate ships set sail as you enjoy a hearty feast and watch the action unfold!
NASCAR SpeedPark
Race over to NASCAR SpeedPark for 22 race themed go-kart tracks, rides and attractions. The twists and turns are thrilling, and the collection of NASCAR memorabilia is the biggest in the Smokies.
Titanic Museum
Students will learn more about the ill-fated Titanic at the immense, ship-shaped attraction in Pigeon Forge. Completely interactive and filled with artifacts, groups can investigate all the Titanic Museum has to offer.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Voted America’s #1 aquarium by TripAdvisor, it is also a top destination for viewing penguins. Yep- right in the heart of Tennessee! Pet stingrays and horseshoe crabs, check out 12 ft. sharks and explore the aquarium in a series of clear underwater tunnels.
The beauty of Ripley’s Aquarium is that it’s super student-friendly and groups can take part in education programs, tours or even music programs.
The Track
Zip over the to The Track for a fast ride on a three-story go-kart track or a crazy free-fall into oversized safety cushions. Bumper cars, bumper boats, mini-golf and bungee round out a full day of fun!
Outdoor Gravity Park
Roll down a 1000 ft. hill in a spaceship-like OGO (wet or dry- depending on the season). Outdoor Gravity Park is the only place in America where you can experience three, unique zorb experiences.
Students will roll along zig-zagging tracks or speed down the hill in a ventilated and sometimes wet giant plastic ball. This is an extreme adventure like no other!
Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Teens are fascinated by the macabre, so they’ll love the Alcatraz East Crime Museum! They’ll explore America’s ‘seedier’ side through interactive exhibits that dig deep into criminal profiles, victim’s stories, crime prevention, forensic science, law enforcement and more.
They can even check out the notorious White Ford Bronco that carried O.J. Simpson on his slow speed chase down the 405!
Country Tonite Theatre
Country hits combine with comedy classics in this high-energy, fast-paced show. Join the fun and sing along at Country Tonite!
Plan Your Band Trip to the Smokies and the Gatlinburg Music Workshop
Make this year’s band trip a hit and showcase your band at the Gatlinburg Music Workshop. Plan your performance and a little extra time for adventure in the always exciting Smoky Mountains!
Find Out More About the Gatlinburg Music Workshop