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This has been a trip of firsts.
 
During the Minnesota Orchestra's five-day trip to Cuba this week, musicians took the 

first direct flight ever from Minneapolis to Havana

Follow the orchestra's trip

They embarked on the first high-profile cultural exchange between the U.S. and Cuba since both countries' presidents relaxed restrictions on travel and commerce last December.

rehearsed side by side with the country's national youth orchestra

, teachers and the striking voices of the 

Minnesota musicians, Cuban students share a global language

Complex prep made Cuba trip possible

For musicians, thrill of trip tempered by worry over instruments

'Crazy idea,' Cuban ties sped orchestra's return to Havana

 says that, to be in Cuba at this time, sharing music after having survived the turmoil of a year-plus labor dispute, has been the experience of a lifetime.
 
"I think that's a testament to what can happen when people dream and believe and work hard together," she said. "That's what an orchestra is, a group of people on a stage doing that."  

The orchestra returns home today, but it's clear many in the organization could easily be tempted to visit Cuba again.

Arts and Culture

Music

Euan Kerr

Author

The orchestra returns home today, after two concerts in Cuba's national theater, rehearsals and master classes with students and youth orchestras, and a cultural exchange many say they won't soon forget.

The Minnesota Orchestra's trip of firsts comes to a close

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