How many countries will students visit?
Each International Touring Ensemble visits two to four different countries throughout a three to four week period.  Occasionally special tours highlighting several regions of a single country are developed for an ensemble.

Which countries will the groups be visiting?
The invitation, planning, and confirmation process for our host communities in Europe is of the utmost importance for the International Program to operate safely and offer an unparalleled experience for our students.  Therefore, tour itineraries are not released to participants until April of the traveling year.

How many host families will students have?
Every student has the opportunity to live with six or seven different host families during their travels in Europe.  Some International Ensembles also perform  short tours in the Midwest with up to two host families. 

How many Blue Lake students stay in a host family together?
Typically one to three Blue Lake students are housed in a single host family dwelling.  All students should prepare and look forward to the possibility of being the only Blue Laker in a host family.

How are host families selected? What is the screening process?
Blue Lake International Ensembles are hosted by various musical organizations, schools, churches or town councils.  Host families are identified by the host chairman who is often the leader of these various organizations.  Organization members, family, and personal friends of Blue Lake’s Host Chairperson serve as host families.  Most Blue Lake students will have what is known as a “host brother” or “host sister.”  In most cases, students are paired with families who have children of similar age and gender.

Are there scholarships available for the International Program?
Blue Lake offers a very limited number of scholarships for the International Exchange Program.  The only scholarship available through Blue Lake is the “Outstanding Camper Scholarship.”  This scholarship is awarded to one student from every summer camp performing ensemble throughout the summer.  No other Blue Lake scholarships are applicable for the International Program.  Outside funding sources or scholarships are always welcome.

We have date conflicts with the end of the school year. What do we do?
The Blue Lake International Program offers a flexible attendance policy as outlined in the invitation and contract materials.  However, most schools are willing to make special arrangements during end of year activities in order for full attendance at Blue Lake rehearsals.  Please review the Blue Lake Attendance Policy in detail.  Most schools recognize the value of the Blue Lake International Program and permit students to have an alternate end of the school year schedule.  Blue Lake recommends making arrangements with your school during the fall months of the school year.