Double reed fest

December 14-18, 2024

Teaching Artists


  • Principal Bassoon, Minnesota Orchestra

    Faculty, University of Minnesota

Trip details

  • • For high school-aged musicians with a parent, or student musicians over 18

    • Participate in an intercultural experience alongside peers from Cuba’s schools for the performing arts

    • Receive 4 hours service learning by volunteering in schools and/or packing/delivering humanitarian supplies

    • Learn outside your comfort zone and get to know the Cuban culture

    Download sample itinerary

  • • Airfare (with logistical assistance from CAYO) and passport expenses

    • Meals while en route to and from Cuba

    • Spending money for souvenirs or personal purchases including alcohol (adults)

    • Tips for local guides

    • Vaccinations and medications needed for travel

    • Any transportation, lodging, or meals outside of the group

    • Mini-bar expenses in individual rooms

    • Donation of supplies, musical equipment or humanitarian items (up to $250)

  • Student/parent pricing at $1975 each includes:

    • Flight booking assistance on a CAYO-approved itinerary and required visa

    • Room/en-suite bathroom in private casa, double occupancy

    • Classes and workshops with US and Cuba teaching artists

    • Cultural activities and excursions

    • Private lesson with teaching artist

    • Ground transportation, including airport pick-up and drop-off

    • All meals

    • 4 hours community service

    • Final presentation and reception

    • CAYO t-shirt

  • Expect a Zoom call with CAYO leadership in advance of your trip, where you will receive a detailed itinerary and pre-travel information specific to Cuba.

  • CAYO works directly with owners of independent houses for rent (casas particulares) in the safe and quiet neighborhoods of Vedado and Miramar. These comfortable, well-appointed homes offer daily breakfast, air-conditioned bedrooms, and a staff on site for any traveler needs.

    Need a visual? Take a look!

Benefits beyond expectations

Travel to Havana, Cuba with a select group of your American peers alongside nationally-recognized CAYO teaching artists of the US and Cuba. Work side-by-side with Cuban students in a weeklong intercultural experience at one of the island’s performing arts high schools, such as Escuela Nacional de Música and Conservatorio Amadeo Roldán.

Participant reactions

“The week clarified to me the why of becoming a musician.”

— Student Ambassador, May 2024

“Everyone I met was extremely talented, upbeat and welcoming. I'm grateful to have been part of such a positive musical environment.”

-Student Ambassador, October 2023

Two students giving "peace signs" with their hands as they pose with their instruments

Reserve your spot

A tax-deductible deposit of $250 per traveler is required by November 1 to reserve a spot.

Ready to sign up? Fill out this registration form.

Need more information? Click below to email us!

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