IVA Band trip to San Francisco

IVA band students find inspiration in San Francisco ballet
Posted on 01/14/2025

On December 8th, a group of young musicians from Indian Valley Academy set out on a cultural journey they won’t soon forget. Accompanied by chaperones and their dedicated music teacher, Dr. Jane Brown, the IVA band students traveled to San Francisco to experience a live performance of the Nutcracker Ballet at the iconic War Memorial Opera House, a trip blending artistic inspiration with holiday magic.

The adventure began mid-morning in Greenville, as students boarded their school van, their anticipation quietly building. By 11 a.m., they were on the road, weaving through scenic California landscapes. The destination: a weekend immersion in the arts, including an overnight stay in one of San Francisco’s lively hostels.

After arriving in the city, the group settled into their accommodations and prepared for the highlight of the trip. By 7 p.m., the students found themselves seated under the grandeur of the War Memorial Opera House, eagerly awaiting the curtain’s rise. San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker—a cherished holiday tradition—brought Tchaikovsky’s score to life with dazzling choreography, elaborate sets and the enchanting accompaniment of a live orchestra. 

“It is so rewarding to see our students’ eyes light up when they see and hear something truly magnificent and beautiful,” said Dr. Brown, who teaches music at both IVA and Plumas Unified School District. She shared that live performing-arts experiences like these cannot be duplicated any other way. “The San Francisco Ballet Orchestra and Dance company are in the very top tier for our part of the world. Not only did our students get to experience one of the finest artistic events in Western music tradition; for many of our students, this was their first time coming to the city or attending a professional event like this. I am thrilled that we were able to do this for them and am proud of them for coming.”


The trip wasn’t just about the performance. On Monday morning, after check out, the group ventured to Golden Gate Park to visit the tranquil Japanese Tea Garden. Surrounded by lush greenery, koi ponds and traditional architecture, the students found a serene escape that offered them fresh inspiration to bring back to their music.

The students journeyed home on Monday evening with memories of twinkling lights, the soaring strains of Tchaikovsky and the vibrant culture of  San Francisco etched in their minds and returned to Greenville with renewed passion for their craft. This trip, a perfect blend of education and enchantment, will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.

Dr. Brown said that she is very grateful to all of the staff at the Indian Valley Thrift Store and other private donors in Indian Valley and throughout the county, as well as the staff and administration at Plumas Charter, Indian Valley Academy and Greenville Elementary for helping this dream become a reality for the students.

By Rachel Goings, Public Relations Specialist  [email protected]