An orchestra teacher in the North Kansas City School District since 2002, James Freise currently serves as Director of Orchestras at Staley High School, New Mark Middle School, and three elementary schools: Bell Prairie, Nashua, and Rising Hill.
A musician himself, Freise is keenly aware of how important music education is for young students.
“I’ve played cello for 36 years and currently perform with the Northland Symphony Orchestra (since 2003),” said Freise, who earned his bachelors in Music Education from William Jewell College in 2002 and a master’s in Music Education from the University of Missouri–Kansas City in 2008. “I also performed with the Liberty Symphony Orchestra from 1998 to 2024, and I direct the orchestra at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, where I participate in church music ministry.”
Freise recently took his fourth student trip with ETI, traveling to New York City in February to perform at Carnegie Hall through Animando Events. The group—made up of students in grades 9 through 12—visited the 9/11 Memorial, attended a Broadway musical, ventured inside Radio City Music Hall, marveled at the bustling Times Square and more.
“The highlight of the trip was the performance at Carnegie Hall. Making music on such a historic and world-renowned stage was an unforgettable experience for the students and me,” Freise shared, noting some takeaways from the trip overall. “One big lesson my students learned was the importance of preparation and professionalism. Participating in a high-profile event helped them understand the level of commitment and focus needed to perform at their best.”
This trip, Freise said, created memories that his students will carry with them for the rest of their lives.
“I’m grateful to ETI for making the experience seamless and memorable from start to finish,” he said. “Brigette was the most fantastic tour manager. Her organization, positivity, and care for our group made the trip outstanding.”
Freise noted that he continues to choose to work with ETI because of the company’s reputation for creating smooth, well-organized trips that balance performance opportunities with meaningful cultural experiences.
“Their team is always responsive and easy to work with,” he said. “ETI handled every detail professionally, which allowed me to focus on my students rather than logistics. Their attention to safety, communication, and flexibility made a huge difference in the success of our trip.”
Freise’s advice for other educators who may be thinking of traveling with their students?
“Plan early and communicate often!” he said. “Make sure families are well informed, and always work with a company that understands student travel's educational and logistical sides.”
Outside of his professional work, Freise been married wife Emile for almost 18 years and they share two sons, Will (age 15) and Sam (age 12).
“Both [sons] play cello and soccer and are lucky (or maybe not) to have me as their teacher,” Freise shared. “In my free time, I enjoy Star Wars and Star Trek, cooking, baking, and watching sports.”
Courtesy of ETI.
Photos courtesy of James Freise.
