Delegation Visits Panama to Perform & Teach
By Tom Hansen
UW-Superior music students performing with students in Santiago, Panama at the Urraca Institute.
In May 2015 University of Wisconsin-Superior students and faculty from the symphonic band and jazz band traveled to Panama for 10 days to tour in three different locations; Panama City, David, and Santiago. During their visit they alternately performed and taught master classes in the schools of those cities. They were led by Dr. Pamela Bustos, associate professor and director of bands.
At each city, UW-Superior students taught instrument-specific classes, performed symphonic band and jazz band pieces and performed in conjunction with each school’s band.
Both UW-Superior and Panamanian students practiced joint pieces for months before coming together in Panama to perform.
UW-Superior group outside the Urraca Institute, Santiago, Panama
Before UW-Superior students traveled to Panama, many participated in a culture class, where they explored and learned about the language, music, culture, dance, and history of Panama. A Superior resident and native of Panama visited the class during the year, giving students a real glimpse into Panamanian culture and life before they left the United States.
Every four years, students have this opportunity to tour internationally to different countries across the globe as they gain a world vision, expand their perspectives and gain an understanding of other cultures.
Getting students there
Bustos and the students worked closely with the UW-Superior Foundation office to fundraise to support their trip, and to create an affordable and accessible international experience for students.
Through a letter-writing campaign, the Foundation office raised scholarship funds to provide one third of the students with financial aid. Students receiving financial aid took part in a Panamanian culture class the semester before the tour.
