Cape student sets sights abroad

Italy, Austria, Germany, France and Switzerland are places where Cape Henlopen High School sophomore Cassidy Coolbaugh is singing this summer.

Cassidy is one of 100 people bringing American music overseas as part of American Music Abroad's 2014 Gold Tour to Europe.

American Music Abroad has taken students to Europe for more than 30 years, giving them memorable experiences as they offer music to new audiences. The program is very selective and requires recommendations for its participants.

Cassidy was recommended by high school choral instructor Louise Foster, her chorus teacher since sixth grade.

The sophomore flew from New York to Europe June 23 for the three-week tour. She is excited that on her first trip out of the United States, she shares a common interest with all the students who are going- love of music.

“Being able to explore different places with people who share the same passion as me is exciting,” she says.

Foster is also excited for Cassidy.

“She'll get the understanding and passion of the group while they sing,” Foster said. “She's going to come back with a new love for singing.”

Cassidy almost wasn't able to travel. She said the trip is expensive, and initially her parents thought it would cost too much. She told her grandparents about it, and after hearing about the opportunity, they offered to pay for the whole trip.

Students on the tour have a busy schedule but they also have two full days to relax and explore.

Cassidy's high school singing group, Cape Chorale, will have to perform without her. The group will be performing while she is gone at Stengo Park, near the Lewes Library, Wednesday, July 2.

Cassidy says she started singing in the Rehoboth Elementary School choir as a fourth-grader because it was what her friends were doing. Her love for singing has grown, and now she says she would like to continue singing even after high school.