Updated+itinerary+and+information,+June+5

Hi everyone, Congratulations on a great Thursday evening rehearsal. We did not get to "Cantate Domino" so I need to ask those who will be singing it to give it a good solid review. If the spirituals are new for you, be sure to rehearse the text in rhythm, and the notes that are unusual for your part. Be sure your Chinese "Mo li hua" is memorized so you can look, sound, and feel convincing and confident! In "Mongolian Horses" carefully memorize the points of transition.

Thank you for sending your medical info. I hope we don't need it! However, don't forget that you can only drink bottled water (which will be provided at meals) and don't even think about having an ice cube or a fresh fruit that has not been peeled! Everything on the plane will be safe, although we may need to check whether we can consume ice cubes on our return flight.

KI concerts told me that "shorts are ok" for dinner, etc. I just ask that you remember that you will be staying in beautiful hotels, eating at a variety of lovely restaurants, and that we will always be representing the best of the US. So dress with respect to the culture and the fact that we will be in major international centers.

As far as I can tell, you will not be able to get a Boarding Pass prior to your arrival at the airport because we are part of a group. But don't forget your e-ticket and passport! And you are welcome to try to get that Boarding Pass if you want to....

Because we are flying internationally, I do not believe there will be charge for checked luggage. However, Delta has the final word on that. Delta states that your check-in baggages must be 50 pounds or less, with a combined length, width, and height of 62 inches or less. You may check further information on the Delta web site.

"The following changes were made to the itinerary since the tour booklets were printed: June 7: Delta Airlines flight 129 departs Seattle Airport at 9:05 pm to arrive in Beijing at 11:40 pm. Dinner service will be provided on the flight however KI will also provide a snack box upon arrival. The hotel in Beijing was upgraded to the Jade Palace. June 9: Meet your Tour Guides at 9:00 am. June 13: Beijing to Shanghai domestic flight June 15: Meet your Tour Guides at 7:15 am June 15: Expo performances will be at 11:00 am AND 2:30 pm. You will be free to explore Expo 2010 before and after and between the performances. June 15: Farewell Dinner is at 8:00 pm."

Please be sure to check all the music, folder, and concert attire requirements before you finish packing.

According to the Weather Channel, weather in Beijing will be in the upper 80s, with no rain until Sunday. Shanghai should be in the upper 70's, with some clouds.

This will be a great adventure! I am looking forward to spending the next ten days with all of you, making beautiful music, and exploring a culture that is both ancient and thriving. We will be the best possible representation of all that the US has to offer. It will be a life-shaping experience for all.

See you Monday at 6:30 am at the Delta Departure area of McNamara Terminal in the Detroit Airport.