From the Beatles to Bob Dylan, Carnegie Hall has hosted numerous acclaimed musicians, and the latest musicians to join the ranks are North Atlanta’s very own orchestra and band members. The Warrior music department took a trip to New York from Feb. 21-25, and over their stay in the Big Apple, these students were able to do everything from performing to enjoying the city as tourists.

For many, the highlight of the trip was playing at Carnegie Hall. While many would have been intimidated by performing in such an iconic concert hall, North Atlanta’s band and orchestra were up for the challenge. “Getting to perform at this legendary place was surreal,” said junior Clarke Norman. “It is definitely one of my all-time best memories.”

In addition to showcasing their musical talents, the students also got to see the city. The itinerary included seeing the Broadway show “King Kong,” walking around Times Square, and touring Radio City Music Hall. “My favorite part was the view from the top of the Rockefeller Center. I mean talk about an iconic skyline,” said junior Cole Bickerstaff.

While it was the band and orchestra’s first time going to New York, they have had plenty of traveling experience. Some of the music department’s past travels include trips to everywhere from New Orleans to Barcelona. “Traveling gives students the chance to see what music is like beyond Atlanta,” said orchestra teacher Stephen Lawrence. “It shows them what other opportunities are out there.”

While it takes blood, sweat, and tears to put together a Carnegie Hall-worthy performance, the Warrior Music Department pulled it off with ease. Even though the trip is over, the memories of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will last forever.