Michael Leclerc

A letter from the founder, Michael Leclerc.

August , 2011
Dear Directors,

After finishing our 7th successful season we are pleased that, once again, everyone left happy and ready to return in 2011. Though we have been in operation for 7 years we are still the “new kid on the proverbial block” but the word has gotten around. The fact that 40% of our groups this year were newcomers means that we are doing something right

We are ready for another exciting year and have added a few new items. Due to popular demand we have added of Annapolis, Maryland to our fine selection of destinations. This can easily be combined with Baltimore and Washington to make the perfect package. After the incredible success of our 2010 Music Weekend for Instrumental, Vocal and Dance in Quebec City we have decided to repeat the experience in Boston for 2011. More master classes and clinics throughout the weekend, not to mention public performances and joint ventures make this festival very unique to say the least.

No matter how many years we have been doing this the same words keep coming back at every festival:

Music: This is the main word. You are coming to a music event with a music group. You are not a History Class, a Senior Class or a French Class. Since this is the case it is only normal that all our programs are geared towards MUSIC! It is for this reason that we maintain our “ONE FULL HOUR ON STAGE” philosophy allowing our fine judges the time necessary to make a difference.

Service! This is the word we kept hearing the most. Attention to detail, service, quality are all words which have become synonymous with our company. We will never compromise on the quality of service we offer each and every one of you who participate in one of our festivals. We believe that you have enough to do in getting the trip together and taking care of your students without having to worry about the details once on site. It is for this reason that our attentive staff are ever-present ready to assist at all times. Service is a dying quality. Call me “Old School” but I truly believe that there are many out there who still appreciate it and are willing to pay a few dollars more in order to offer their groups the best and safest experience possible.

The Economy: This has now become a reality for us all but life must continue. Young musicians sometimes need the proverbial “CARROTT” a trip at the end of the year represents to stay motivated not to mention the educational advantages of seeing other groups perform and the bonding experience of being on the road together brings. Since we do not sell “Canned Packages” we have been able to adjust our packages to meet all group’s budgets making travel become a reality once again.

At Rhythms we tailor-make 90% of our programs to meet each group’s requests. Though we have sample programs, we are one of the only festival companies that puts together exactly what you want to meet your group’s needs. As we do this we will always make sure that you get the best value for your hard earned dollar. Our concept of giving back to the school music world was well received by the directors. Our main concept is to find venues within schools who are willing and available to host our events. In return for their services we make substantial donations directly to their music program on your behalf. This in turn assists them in bettering their arts program. We all know how budget cuts affect the music departments and this only helps them maintain a better program for the students in their school.

Our other concepts are interaction and local flavor! At all our festivals we try to bring out the local flavor of the destination by offering activities, meals etc… typical to the destination. We also try to encourage interaction with local musicians, especially at our banquet dinners which are always a total success. Our Live Entertainment is always carefully selected on the basis that they are “SUPERIOR” (rated by our groups) and capable of making our banquets the most memorable event you will ever attend. Anyone who has ever been to a Rhythms International Awards Banquet will agree that the atmosphere is magical to say the least.

You will find within our web-site, our line-up of destinations and dates for 2011. This selection has been made by popular demand and the dates selected according to a general calendar. We know that no two groups work on the same calendar. It is for this reason that we have our “YOU TELL US” form. If you do not see the date or destination that you want, all you have to do is contact us or fill in the form. It will be our pleasure to meet your needs and will be so much easier for us if you tell us exactly what you need and want. You have no idea just how accommodating we can be until you contact us.

Yours In Music,

Michael Leclerc
Founder
RIMF: Rhythms International Inc.

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