Update number two...Thursday afternoon

It has been an amazing trip! We have experienced the art, food, and culture of Italy in remarkable ways, and everyone seems to be having a wonderful time. The weather has been beautiful, and every day has brought new experiences we will all cherish for a lifetime.

The pictures and brief descriptions here can not convey the beauty of the places we have visited, and the warmth of the people of northern Italy has impressed us all. Here are a few highlights...

Tuesday in Bologna




















The flute section in front of the Neptune fountain at Bologna's Piazza Maggiore















A South African youth marimba band performs.





















Dr. Neal with the Mayor of Bologna















Shopping after a publicity appearance!

Rehearsal that afternoon was a marathon, but we all agreed that it was better than doing shorter rehearsals every day. There are no pictures because the photographer was busy conducting the band, but rest assured, a great time was had by all!

Wednesday in Florence














The Florence skyline taken from a lookout at the city's edge















The domed ceiling inside the Duomo, the main cathedral in the city















Outside the Duomo...amazing architecture!





















Students put on a fashion show for each other at one of the Florentine leather shops. We have some great pictures of Mr. Lloyd modeling in this fashion show, but we'll save those to bribe him later on!















Some of the guys rented bicycles to see more of Florence before we returned to Bologna for the evening.

Thursday in Bologna














Waiting for the tour bus Thursday morning...I think they are getting tired!














Students take in a lecture at the Anatomical Theatre at the University of Bologna. Founded in the 11th century, this is the oldest university in Europe. The school has over 100,000 students!

It is currently Thursday afternoon in Bologna, and we are all resting at the hotel in preparation for our performance tonight for the World Conference of the International Society for Music Education.

We appreciate all your thoughts and prayers. Please know that we are honored to share the McMurry experience with the world this evening. Our students have been outstanding ambassadors, and are prepared to give an inspired performance this evening. Since it is an outdoor concert, please pray for no wind and excellent intonation!