Cathedral City High School Band Students Prepare for Musical Journey to Costa Rica

The sound of daily practice fills the band room at Cathedral City High School — but for these students, the music is leading to something much bigger.

In just a couple of months, members of the Cathedral City High School band will pack up their instruments and travel far from home, embarking on a cultural and musical journey to Costa Rica. For many of the students, it will be their first time leaving the country.

Band Director Matt Howe says the trip offers more than just travel — it’s an opportunity for students to see how far music can take them.

The students are already preparing by learning music inspired by Costa Rican culture, giving them a deeper connection to the traditions they’ll soon experience firsthand. The goal, Howe says, is to immerse students in the country’s music, people, and history while performing abroad.

For junior Christopher Frias-Torres, a saxophonist in the jazz band, the trip represents his first glimpse of the world beyond home. He says performing in another country is both exciting and meaningful, especially alongside his fellow band members.

But the experience comes with a significant cost. Each student must raise approximately $3,600 to cover travel, lodging, and program expenses. Howe says he is committed to helping every student make the trip possible through continued fundraising and community support.

Until departure day arrives, the students remain focused — practicing day in and day out, playing every note with purpose as they prepare for the journey ahead.

The Cathedral City High School band is scheduled to depart for Costa Rica in April and will continue fundraising efforts in the coming months. If you would like to support the students, you could do so here.