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Around the World in Four Days: Waterville Students Hit All the Right Notes at Walt Disney World’s Epcot

Around the World in Four Days: Waterville Students Hit All the Right Notes at Walt Disney World’s Epcot
From the classroom to the castle: On July 13, the Waterville Central School marching band and swing choir embarked on a 24-hour bus journey to Walt Disney World’s Epcot, trading textbooks for musical scores in a four-day educational adventure. Known as one of the most exciting destinations for school-aged children, Disney also offers a range of learning experiences, blending fun with culture and sound. 

Led by professional Disney musicians, students engaged in two music courses held in Epcot. The first session guided participants through the park’s World Showcase, exploring the musical traditions of a variety of cultures. Students had the opportunity to sing and conduct alongside a live a cappella ensemble, sparking conversation around how music impacts mood and the mind.

“This experience gave our students the confidence, perspective and a deeper appreciation for the power of sound,” said Patrick Moshetti, director and teacher of instrumental music, grades 7-12. 

On July 16, the journey continued behind the scenes in a private Disney recording studio, where students practiced sight-reading Disney music under the direction of a conductor from the Disney Orchestra. From mixing audio tracks to understanding the technical aspects of recording, students experienced firsthand what it’s like producing professional music. The session ended with a personalized soundtrack video featuring students performing music to a Disney movie scene, which they brought home as a keepsake. 

“This trip is an unforgettable keepsake, capturing their growth as young musicians,” said Moshetti. 

Thank you to the Waterville Music Boosters for their support in making this experience possible. Waterville Central School remains committed to fostering student growth through hands-on learning, cultural exploration and creative experiences that extend beyond the classroom. 

A group of people in matching purple shirts standing in front of a large geodesic dome structure in an outdoor setting with trees and buildings in the background.
A group of people wearing purple shirts stands in the foreground, with a large geodesic dome structure in the background.
A large, red electric guitar sculpture stands prominently in the foreground, with a group of people, including several individuals wearing blue uniforms, visible in the background.
A group of people posing together in a futuristic-looking setting with blue lighting and geometric patterns in the background.
A large indoor space with a wooden floor, filled with various art displays and people browsing through them, with a stage and curtains visible in the background.
A group of people, likely students, are playing various musical instruments, including keyboards and drums, in what appears to be a music classroom or studio setting.
A group of people, likely musicians, performing on stage in a dimly lit venue with various musical instruments and equipment visible.
A group of musicians wearing headphones and holding various instruments, performing on a stage with a red curtain backdrop.
A crowded indoor space with people seated at tables, surrounded by various displays and equipment, suggesting an event or gathering related to art, music, or entertainment.
A large group of musicians, including brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments, are seated in a performance venue with red curtains and stage lighting visible in the background.
A large group of people, mostly young adults, gathered in a grand, ornate lobby with columns, balconies, and decorative railings.
A grand, ornate interior space with a circular balcony and columns, where a group of people in colorful traditional attire are gathered, seemingly engaged in some kind of performance or presentation.
The image shows a group of young people holding up a sign with a quote about the power of thoughts and imagination.