Join us for an extraordinary journey to Finland, guided by the inspiring Dr. Lynn Brinckmeyer, who has been at the heart of our Music Education Journeys for more than 15 years. A passionate educator and cultural connector, Lynn has led transformative programs on six of the world’s seven continents — from Australia to Tanzania, Argentina to Portugal, China to North America — creating meaningful experiences that blend music education with deep local engagement. This immersive Finnish experience continues that tradition, offering music educators and enthusiasts the opportunity to connect with local colleagues, explore Finland’s innovative education system, and discover its rich musical heritage. From hands-on workshops with kantele players to insider visits at the Helsinki Music Center and Turku Philharmonic Orchestra, this journey promises professional growth, cultural discovery, and unforgettable moments.   Focus on education and local interaction:  

Highlights of your Finnish Music and Cultural Journey

Engage in Professional Music Exchange

 - Meet and collaborate with Finnish music educators and artists, sharing ideas on curriculum, the arts, and cultural perspectives.
- Tour the world-class Helsinki Music Center, home to the prestigious Sibelius Academy and two leading symphony orchestras.
- Visit the workshop of a renowned Finnish luthier to witness the artistry behind handcrafted string instruments.
 

Experience Traditional Finnish Music Firsthand

- Take part in an interactive workshop with local kantele players—learn to play this traditional plucked string instrument and enjoy a live demonstration.
- Join a lively Finnish folk music session with a hands-on rhythm workshop led by local musicians.
 

Explore Finland’s Musical Heritage

- Enjoy a day trip to Turku for a guided tour of the Sibelius Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of Finland’s most celebrated composer.
- Go behind the scenes at the historic Turku Philharmonic Orchestra—the oldest in Finland—with opportunities to meet musicians and staff.
 

Connect with Nature and Culture

- Discover the rich culinary traditions of Finland with a tasting tour through Helsinki’s Old Market Hall, filled with local delicacies and vibrant vendors.
- Take a guided walk through Nuuksio National Park and visit the Finnish Nature Center, followed by a unique forest-based drumming or rhythm circle experience.

This trip, these travel companions, our amazing leaders made this journey another high point in my life. To walk in the steps of the giants of music brought new meaning to the scores I have performed over the decades. I will never stop singing the praises of Nanda Journeys to friends and family and anyone who asks. 5 Stars

W. Martin Music Journey Austria 

"Traveling with this group each year is like traveling with family. Greece was another I can’t believe I’m standing here moment as we viewed ancient history in person! The landscape as we road to the villages was divine! We loved sampling all the cultural foods and the musical experiences we were given! A huge plus was having the same guide that was with us everyday. They are an automatic translator and knowledge bank as you explore and end up becoming an international friend ." 5 Stars

S. Tadlock Music Journey Greece 

"This trip was wonderful! We immersed ourselves in the culture with music, dance, food, history, and many sites. The country was green, clean and the people very welcoming. Our guide was very good with making sure we saw and did not only the itinerary but added little surprises along the way to add to our experience. A very enjoyable trip."  5 Stars

H. Mellema Music Journey Ireland 

Read more about what people are saying about Nanda Journeys HERE

Depart from New York City area and make your way to Helsinki, Finland. The stunning beauty and friendly people alone are worth a visit! Gateway city subject to change.  

Upon arrival, the group will be met and transferred for check-in at your lovely local hotel.   

Depending on your arrival time, all travelers will gather this afternoon (or following morning) with your national guide and receive further information on the program and today’s activities.  

The Original Sokos Vaakuna Helsinki is one of the most beautiful landmarks of Helsinki, in the best spot in town next to the Railway station. The hotel was constructed for the 1952 Olympics, and its unique architecture and interior design still charm visitors. From Vaakuna, all the attractions of Helsinki are within your reach. Culture, cuisine and shopping opportunities are within walking distance. The hotel has onsite dining, sauna, free Wi-Fi, a gym, and is certified green property. Guest rooms have a coffee/tea maker, AC, safe, minibar, hairdryer, iron/board, blackout curtains, desk and more.

Please Note: Breakfast is included daily at your hotel. 

Enjoy a welcomer dinner with live folk music performance this evening. 

Overnight: Original Sokos Vaakuna Helsinki    

 Included meals: Dinner

Explore the city with your guide to enjoy the city’s key landmarks, including elegant Senate Square, the Helsinki Cathedral, and bustling Market Square.  Today also included entrance to the famed Temppeliaukio Church – commonly known the Rock Church – a unique architectural marvel built directly into solid granite and topped with a copper dome.  The church’s natural acoustics and serene design make it a highlight of any visit to the city.  

Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant.  

This afternoon the goal will be to arrange a visit to a local school, university, or community center to meet with local orchestra/choir for a special musical exchange. This interactive session will give the chance to connect with your Finnish peers involved in orchestras or choirs, sharing their musical experiences and possibly participating in a joint rehearsal. 

Dinner is by individual arrangement (own expense).  

 Overnight: Original Sokos Vaakuna Helsinki 

 Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Enjoy a morning guided food walking tour which includes visit to Old Market Hall (fresh food market) while tasting some local cuisine such as rye bread and fried vendace (tiny freshwater fish). The vendors’ selections feature cheeses, fish, shellfish, meats, vegetables, fruits, spices, coffees and teas, as well as small gift items and tableware. The market hall also features Finland’s smallest Alko store.  

Lunch is by individual arrangement this afternoon with options at the market to choose from.

In the afternoon, visit Musiikkitalo - Helsinki Music Center for a guided tour. This renowned venue is home to two of Finland’s leading symphony orchestras – the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra – as well as the Sibelius Academy, Finland’s top music university.  During the tour, explore the world-class concert halls and rehearsal spaces.  

Dinner will be provided at a local restaurant. 

Overnight: Original Sokos Vaakuna  Helsinki 

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner

This morning, the group will have the opportunity to step into the world of Finnish lutherie with a visit to a local luthier’s studio. Learn about the meticulous craft of string instrument making – from the selection of woods and shaping of bodies to the intricate process of tuning and finishing. Visit will also include a live demonstration. 

Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant.  

This afternoon, the group will immerse themselves in Finnish folk music with a hands-on workshop led by kantele players. The kantele, Finland’s national instrument, is a traditional plucked string instrument known for its soft, ethereal sound.  Group to enjoy a live performance demonstration followed by an introduction to the instrument’s history, construction and playing technique – with the chance to play the kantele itself. 

Dinner is on your own this evening.  

Overnight: Original Sokos Vaakuna Helsinki

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch  

Group will embark on a full-day excursion to Turku, Finland’s oldest city and former capital rich in cultural and musical history. 

First stop is for a guided tour of the Sibelius Museum, the only museum in Finland devoted entirely to music – named after Finland’s most celebrated composer, Jean Sibelius. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of Finnish music.  

After a provided lunch, a visit will be requested to the esteemed Turku Philharmonic Orchestra for a special behind the scenes tour. Founded in 1790, it is Finland’s oldest orchestra and remains a cornerstone of the country’s musical life – the group may have a chance to meet with orchestra staff or musicians to learn about the institution’s role in preserving and advancing Finland’s orchestral traditions.  

On the way back to Helsinki, stop at Vaski Cider & Distillery for a guided tour and tasting.  

Overnight: Original Sokos Vaakuna Helsinki 

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner  

Today the group will escape the city and head into the heart of Finnish nature with a full-day excursion to Nuuksio National Park. Accompanied by a local nature guide, enjoy a guided walk-through scenic forest trails and learn about the park’s rich biodiversity. The tour also includes a visit to Haltia  Finnish Nature Center – a state-of-the-art exhibition space that showcases the diverse ecosystems of Finland. 

Lunch will be provided this afternoon.  

Later today take part in a forest-based drumming or rhythm circle demonstration a unique and grounding experience that combines music, movement and the natural surroundings. The group will explore rhythm through communal drumming and percussion, led by a professional facilitator.  

Return to Helsinki with dinner on your own.

Overnight: Original Sokos Vaakuna Helsinki 

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner  

This morning, the group to visit Finnish National Opera and Ballet for backstage tour. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the group will explore the areas normally closed to the public – including costume and set design workshops, rehearsal studios and backstage technical spaces.  

Lunch is on your own today with the afternoon at leisure to explore independently. 

Farewell dinner included at local restaurant. 

Overnight: Original Sokos Vaakuna Helsinki 

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 

Depart for the airport today for your flight home.  Depending on the flight time, lunch is by individual arrangement with free time to explore. 

Included meals: Breakfast  

Dr. Lynn M. Brinckmeyer  - Lynn is the former president of the National Association for Music Education (formerly MENC) and a seasoned group leader. She is recently retired as Professor of Music and Director of Choral Music Education at Texas State University, where she also served as the director of Texas State Aurora Voce and director/co-founder of the Hill Country Youth Chorus.is Professor of Music and Director of Choral Music Education at Texas State University. 

During 2006-2008 she served as President for The National Association for Music Education (formerly MENC). She has conducted all state choirs and honor choirs, lectured, presented master classes and performed in forty-eight states in the United States and thirteen different countries, including China and South Africa.

Past offices include: President for the Northwest Division of MENC, Music Educators Journal Editorial Board, Washington Music Educators Association General Music Curriculum Chair and Conn-Selmer University Advisory Board. She also served as a Music Expert on the Disney, “Let’s Play Music” Site. In addition to chairing the Eastern Washington University Music Department for six years and conducting the EWU Concert Choir, Dr. Brinckmeyer received both the PTI Excellence in Teaching Award and the CenturyTel Award for outstanding faculty. Other awards include the MENC Lowell Mason Fellow, Washington Music Educators Association Hall of Fame, the MENC Northwest Division Distinguished Service Award and Eastern New Mexico University’s Outstanding Alumni Award.

Review and download Booking Terms & Conditions HERE