- Begin your international adventure as you travel to one of the world’s most iconic cultural capitals.
High School Honors Performance Series at Royal Festival Hall
Prestigious London music program for exceptional young musicians, ending with a performance at Royal Festival Hall.
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Your London Stage Awaits
Imagine walking along the Thames toward the gleaming glass facade of Royal Festival Hall, knowing that in just days, you'll be performing on the same stage where the London Philharmonic Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and legendary artists like Yehudi Menuhin have captivated audiences. Picture yourself stepping onto the stage of this architectural masterpiece, with its perfect acoustics and stunning river views, ready to share your musical passion with an international audience.
This is your invitation to join London's most prestigious musical tradition. At the Honors Performance Series at Royal Festival Hall, you'll immerse yourself in intensive rehearsals with world-class conductors while discovering the city that gave birth to some of history's greatest musical innovations. From the Royal Opera House to Abbey Road Studios, you'll walk in the footsteps of musical legends while creating your own unforgettable story.
Your London adventure extends far beyond the concert hall. Between your morning and afternoon rehearsals, you'll explore iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and the London Eye, cruise the historic Thames, and experience the vibrant culture of one of the world's great musical capitals. You'll share fish and chips with new friends from around the globe, discover hidden corners of Covent Garden, and feel the energy of a city where musical creativity has flourished for centuries.
Whether you're a cellist who's dreamed of performing where Jacqueline du Pré once played, a vocalist inspired by the tradition of English choral music, or a wind player eager to experience the hall's renowned acoustics, this program will push you to new artistic heights while surrounding you with the musical heritage that makes London magical.
Honors Performance Series
The Honors Performance Series believes in dreaming big. It's how our parent company, WorldStrides, was born, and it's what we hope to give all student performers who participate in the Series: newfound confidence, strengthened musical abilities, and big ideas for the future.
The Series was established with the goal of distinguishing talented student musicians in a once-in-a-lifetime performance at Carnegie Hall. Since then, we are proud to have showcased thousands of dedicated young performers on renowned stages across the world.
Why Musicians Choose Honors Performance Series: Royal Festival Hall
Perform at Iconic Royal Festival Hall
Take the stage at London's premier concert venue, renowned for its perfect acoustics and stunning Thames views. Your performance will place you among the musical elite who have graced this world-famous stage since 1951.

World-Class Conductor Mentorship
Work intensively with internationally celebrated conductors who've led orchestras from the London Symphony to the Vienna Philharmonic. Gain invaluable insights into musical interpretation, ensemble technique, and professional performance standards.

London's Musical Heritage Experience
Explore the city where musical history comes alive. Visit landmarks like the Royal Opera House, walk through musical neighborhoods, and discover the cultural richness that has inspired composers and performers for centuries.

International Musical Friendships
Connect with exceptional young musicians from around the world in one of Europe's most vibrant cultural capitals. Build lasting relationships while sharing your passion for music in an inspiring international setting.


What You'll Gain from Your London Program
International Performance Credentials
Add "Performed at Royal Festival Hall, London" to your musical resume. This prestigious international credit demonstrates your ability to perform at the highest levels and your experience in global musical settings.

Advanced Musical Artistry
Intensive work with master conductors will refine your musical interpretation, ensemble awareness, and stage presence. You'll develop the sophisticated musical understanding that distinguishes truly exceptional performers.

Academic Credit Recognition
High school participants can register for 1 college credit through George Mason University, included with program tuition. Transform your international musical experience into academic achievement.

Global Musical Network
Forge connections with talented musicians from multiple countries and continents. These international friendships often lead to future collaborations, cultural exchanges, and a global support network for your musical aspirations.


Dates, Locations, & Tuition
What does the price include?

Royal Festival Hall
Featured Extras
Private Airport Shuttle Service
We’ll take care of the ride.
Let us handle the airport transportation so your student can start their adventure stress-free. Our private shuttle brings them straight to the housing site and returns them to the airport at the end of the session.
Safe. Supervised. Comfortable.
Add the airport shuttle in your account after registration, for an additional fee.
Family Programs
Family members, friends, and educators can enhance their experience by joining their student performers through the Full Access Family Program or Weekend Family Program add-on options.
Tuition & Travel Protection Plan
Optional protection plan providing comprehensive coverage including trip cancellation, medical evacuation, baggage protection, and accident insurance with assistance services.
Sample Itinerary
* Exact itinerary will vary by session and location. Participants should reference the itinerary provided as part of their enrollment package.
Day 1

- Settle into your accommodations and meet your Chaperone group during a relaxed evening of introductions and orientation.
Day 2

- Dive into the music with seating assignments and intensive rehearsals led by world-class conductors.
- Enjoy a night out at a West End show, experiencing the best of London’s theatrical scene.
Day 3

- Spend the day refining your ensemble pieces during focused rehearsals with your conductor.
- Celebrate your musical achievements with fellow performers during a festive evening of recognition and fun.
Day 4

- Prepare for your moment on stage with a final run-through at Royal Festival Hall.
- Enjoy a brief cultural excursion to experience more of London’s rich history and landmarks.
- Take the stage at Royal Festival Hall and perform in one of the world’s most revered concert venues.
Day 5

- Head home inspired, accomplished, and with memories that will last a lifetime.
Health & Safety

Earn College Credit
Students attending select programs are eligible to receive college credit(s) through George Mason University. Credits are included in the cost of tuition and awarded upon successful completion of the program.
Testimonials


Frequently Asked Questions
To be considered for the Honors Performance Series, applicants must submit the following:
- A completed online application form and deposit
- A teacher reference
- A performer biography
- A 2–3 minute audition recording
In order to provide a safe and structured experience, all Finalists are assigned a program Chaperone. The Series invites educators—most of whom are music teachers and have nominated students for the program, and all of whom have demonstrated expertise working with high school musicians—to apply for selection as program Chaperones. All Chaperone applicants undergo a background check prior to selection and are trained on the Series safety policies and procedures.
No, selected Finalists are responsible for purchasing their own meals during the program. At meal times, students are escorted by their Chaperones in small groups to nearby restaurants. They generally suggest Finalists plan to spend $50-75 US per day on meals and souvenirs.
Yes, scholarships are available to ensure that performers from all backgrounds are able to experience this unique performance honor at the Royal Festival Hall. The scholarship application will be made available following program acceptances.
Yes, to ensure a positive experience for all Finalists, participants are required to sign a Participant Code of Conduct before participating in the Honors Performance Series. Finalists who do not follow these guidelines can be removed from the program and will be sent home at the family's expense.
Yes, the Tuition & Travel Protection Plan is an optional policy designed exclusively for Finalists and Family Program participants to protect their investment.
The Royal Festival Hall performance will feature the Honors Choir (mixed choir) and two Honors Instrumental Ensembles.



