August/September 2006 Ala Breve

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Official Publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association

State and District Calendars of Events

Fame (Future Alabama Music Educators) Application

2007 Conference Pre-Registration Info

AMEAComposition Competition

Phi Beta Mu Recordings

Advice to Graduate Students

AOAComposition Competition

www.alabamamea.org

August 2006
Inside...

andmark Tour & Travel andmark Tour & Travel cc v t est l i s F i s Mu a s s l i s Fe i Mu va L L L L L L L L L L

Practice Practice

We’ll Take Care of the Rest!

We’ll Take Care of the Rest!

Landmark’s Music Festival Coordinator, Connie Burleson, has thirty years experience as a choral music educator. She can customize your tour to any major choral or instrumental festival at any location that you choose. Please give her a call today:

(205)714-7888

(205)714-7888

(800)681-4188

(800)681-4188

Festivals

Festivals

All Star Music Festivals † American Classic † Cruise Festivals † Directors Choice Festival Festivals of Music † Field Studies Carnegie Hall Performance † Fiesta-val Music Festivals

Heritage Festivals † Music America † Musicfest † Music in the Park † Music Maestro Please Music Showcase Festivals † North American Music Festivals † Ozark Mountain Music Festival

Smoky Mountain Music Festival † Southern Star Music Festival † . . . and more

Destinations

Destinations

Atlanta † Branson † Chicago † Gatlinburg † Myrtle Beach † New Orleans † New York Orlando † Saint Louis † San Antonio † Toronto † Washington † Williamsburg † . . . and more

Practice Practice Practice Practice Practice Practice Practice Practice Practice Practice
PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE At Landmark, One Call Does It All! At Landmark, One Call Does It All!
PRACTICE
2 August 2006

ala br ala br eve eve

August 2006

Garry Taylor, Editor

1046 Chinook St. Auburn, AL36830 (256) 636-2754

Send Ad Materials to:

Official Publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association

www.alabamamea.org

News/Features

7FAME (Future Alabama Music Educators)

121st Chair Red Band All-State Band Students

Garry Taylor, Advertising Manager 1046 Chinook St. Auburn, AL36830 (256) 636-2754

ADVERTISING& COPYDEADLINES

August issue: July 1

Octoberissue: September1

February issue: January 1

Unless otherwise indicated, permission is granted to MENC members to reprint articles for educational purposes.

Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of AMEAor the Editor.

All announcements & submissions are subject to editorial judgement/revision.

The Alabama Music Educators Association is a state unit of the MENC:The National Association for Music Education, a voluntary, nonprofit organization representing all phases of music education in schools, colleges, universities, and teacher-education institutions. Active MENC/AMEAmembership is open to all persons engaged in music teaching or other music education work.

Ala Breve is published three times a year (August, October, and February by the Alabama Music Educators Association. Subscription for members is $4.00 per year as part of annual MENC/AMEAdues.

Subscriptions for non-members is $15.00 per year. Bulk rate postage paid at Dothan, AL.

15AOAComposition Competition

18Alabama Collegiate Chapter Growth Awards

20Phi Beta Mu Recordings

22Advice to Graduate Students

27Photo from MENC National Biennial Conference

30State and Division Calendar of Events

33Minutes of Governing Board Meeting

36AMEAYoung Composers Competition

38AMEABoard Directory

Departments

7FAME

Forms

9AMEAConference Pre-Registration Form

15AOAComposition Competition Form

32MENC Membership Form

36AMEAYoung Composers Competition Form

8Treasurer 11Vice-President 12ABA
16CMENC 18IAJE
Education 27AVA
34Research
4President
14AOA
26Higher
29Elementary/General
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: MENC 1806 Robert Fulton DR Reston, VA20191 ON THE COVER Original artwork by AMEA Board Member and AOA President Maggie Snyder INDEX TO ADVERTISERS ACDA..................................................................25 Arts Music Shop...................................Back Cover Auburn University Honor Band............................11 Auburn University Music Department..................17 Auburn University Scholarships...........................13 DeMoulin Bros......................................................8 Fiestaval......................................................................19 Hoover Invitational.....................................................34 Jacksonville State University Music Department.......35 J.W. Pepper...................................................................6 Jupiter.........................................................................23 Landmark Travel...............................Inside Front Cover Lee University Music Department.............................24 Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic...........................28 Music T’s....................................................................26 Tri-State Band Festival and Conducting Clinic..........29 Troy University Music Department............................10 Southeastern Musical Services...................................16 Superscope..................................................................20 UNAMusic Department...............................................4 University of Montevallo Music Department.............21 USAMusic Department................................................5 YMCAHargis Retreat.......................Inside Back Cover ala breve 3

Thank You!

I don't know about you, but I don't say "Thank You" as much as I should. To my wife for putting up with me or my children for being helpful around the house or my friends for just being my friend. I have so much to be thankful for in my home, school and community but I am delinquent in the "Thank you" department. This article is my attempt to get in the black where thank you's are concerned.

As I am writng this article Becky Rodgers is on a fishing trip somewhere in the great state of North Dakota. I can't think of a person more deserving of a fishing trip. I had not met Becky until my first AMEAboard meeting two years ago. Since that time I have discovered that Becky Rodgers is very passionate about everything she does. She is a wonderful teacher and friend and has served AMEAwell. THANK YOU Becky!

We have a wonderful group of educators that make up our AMEAboard. Thank you for the work you do. The events that you produce in your divisions are the true strength of our organization. THANK YOU!

We are fortunate to have Garry Taylor as our Executive Director and Cindy Pass as our Treasurer. Both Cindy and Garry work hard to make sure AMEAruns smoothly. THANK YOU!

In closing, I want to say a special thank you to the member ship of the AMEA. As a parent of four boys who have been involved in music programs kindergarten through college, the impact that music has had on their lives is priceless. My boys are better men for having been involved in music. THANK YOU for teaching music!

THANK YOU for changing lives for the better. THANK YOU!

4 August 2006
From the President...
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FAME

The Alabama Music Educators are continuing a new and exciting program started last year targeting 11th and 12th grade students who have expressed an interest in music education. Aone-day seminar will be held in conjunction with the AMEAIn-service conference for these students to meet and interact with current music educators.

Future Alabama Music Educators

The seminar, provided at no costs to students, will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2007 from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM in Tuscaloosa. Lunch will be provided.

Current music educators are asked to nominate students by November 1, 2006 so that letters of invitation can be sent by December 1. Please mail nominations to Becky Rodgers, Fort Payne High School Band, 201 45th St. N., Fort Payne, Alabama 35967. If you have questions call Becky at (256) 845-4051.

FAME Application Student name_______________________________________Grade_________________ Student home phone__________________________E-mail________________________ Nominating Teacher_________________________________MENC#________________ School address___________________________________________________________ City_______________________Zip____________School phone___________________ This student participates in (circle all that apply) Band Chorus Orchestra Piano Mail this application
to: Becky Rodgers, Ft. Payne H.S. Band, 201 45th St. N., Ft. Payne, AL35967
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Conference Registration Information

It is my pleasure to serve another term as treasurer. Thank you, again, for your confidence and trust in me and my fellow board members who continue to strive to make our organization effective in its mission. As you begin to make preparations for attending the 2007 In-Service conference, here are a few reminders and some new information about registration:

- The cost of registration is as follows:

RegularMembers - $70.00 before January 1st, 2007 by mail or online, $80.00 at the conference. Retirees - Complimentary

First YearTeachers- $55.00 before January 1st, 2007, $65.00 at the conference.

CMENC - $20.00 before January 1st, 2007, $25.00 at the conference.

Guests (non-members who are not music teach ers and who are accompanied by registered members) - $15.00 (pre-registered and onsite fee)

- Checks for the conference should be made out to AMEA. Please make sure you mail the payment and forms to the correct address as noted on the pre-registration form. Some bookkeepers still have our old address on file. Be sure to check over your documents before mailing.

- Purchase orders will no longer be accepted for registration or pre-registration.

- Online pre-registration deadline has been extended until January 1st, 2007. Now all pre-registration fees will be due on the same date to end confusion.

- Credit cards will be accepted as payment for online and onsite registration. We can accept all credit cards, but no debit cards (unless they have a VISA logo on them.)

- Your receipt for registration and preregistration are included in your conference packet, along with your certificate of attendance. Please check your packet upon arrival at the conference to secure these items. If you lose your receipt or certificate, it may take several weeks to get a replacement to you after the conference.

- Please enclose a copy of your MENC

card with your pre-registration form. Your pre-registration will not be processed without a current membership to MENC.

- Be sure to renew your membership to MENC BEFORE the conference, to ensure timely processing with MENC. If you renew your membership or join at the conference, it may take up to 3 months for your membership to process. You can renew your membership or join MENC online at www.menc.org. Please bring your card or a verification letter or email from MENC to the conference. This will expedite your registration.

- If pre-registering online, please be sure to fill out all the information fields. Incomplete fields may keep me from processing your pre-registration, causing you to have to re-register at the conference and pay the onsite cost.

Thank you for reviewing the information above. As always, I am trying to find better ways to serve you. Please call me or email me with any questions, comments, or suggestions any time. Have a great year!

From the Treasurer... 8 August 2006

PRE-REGISTRATION FORM

AMEAIn-Service Conference

January 18-20, 2007

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Please enclose a copy of your card. Home Address: __________________________________

Home Phone: ______________________________ Email:

Division Affiliation: (check all that apply)

Please tell us if you are: _____Clinician

of a performing group at the conference

Retired Members

Registration Complimentary Spouse* or Guest* of AMEAMember

Registration $15.00

Name for Badge: ____________________________________

*may not be a music teacher

TOTALAMOUNT PAID $____________

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO AMEA

Afee of $25 will be charged for returned checks

PLEASE READ - NO PURCHASE ORDERS WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR REGISTRATION THIS YEAR. yOU MUST PAY BY CHECK OR CREDIT CARD FOR BOTH ONSITE REGISTRATION AND PREREGISTRATION.

To pre-register with a credit card go online at www.alabamamea.org through January 1, 2007. ************************* Mail form and check by Jan. 1, 2007 to: *********************** AMEA, Box 181, 1612 Second Avenue SW, Cullman, AL 35055

Important: Forms and payment received after Jan. 1, 2007 will be held at the registration desk for onsite registration. Do not send forms or payment to the above address after Jan. 1, 2007

THANK YOU! Your conference packet will be ready at the registration desk in the Bryant Conference Center. Your receipt will be in your packet at the conference. Please contact me if you need further assistance.

Cindy Pass, Treasurer, AMEAand Registrar Phone: (256) 338-4404 email: cpass@cullmancats.net

Please do not fill in the information below. This is for AMEAbookkeeping ONLY

Personal Check # _________________________School Check # ______________________

Membership verified and payment receipted by: ________________________________ Date: ____________________

FIRST NAME MENC ID#
LAST NAME
____________________ ______ _______ (City)(State) (Zip)
__________________________________
____________________ ______ _______ (City)(State) (Zip)
___________________________________
School Name: ______________________________________________________________________ School Address: _________________________________
School Phone: ______________________________ Fax:
_____ABA_____AVA_____ELEM_____AOA_____HED_____CMENC
_____Retired _____Guest Performer
Pre-Registration $70.00 First Year Teachers Pre-registration $55.00 CMENC Members Pre-Registration $20.00
_____Conductor
Current Members, Clinicians, Conductors
******************************************************************************************************************************* *****************
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10 August 2006

What Is YourPassion?

"What is your passion?" This question was posed to me by a friend a few days ago. There are many answers I could have given…faith, family, friends, fishing…the "Four F's," but the answer that came out of my mouth was, "the future of music education." I was asked to be an observer at the June AMEA Governing Board meeting and was very impressed with the members of the board and their commitment to improving and promoting music education in our state. The sense of teamwork was phenomenal. Everything about the meeting was focused on the future.

I would like to begin my term by saying that I believe we teach the most important subject in school. I am an advocate for music education. I will work to promote music programs throughout the state. I want everyone to see the importance of all of Alabama's students becoming familiar

with the fine arts. I want the citizens of our state to expect great music programs in all of their schools. I want the lawmakers, school boards, administrators, faculty members, and music teachers to work to promote music education in creative and effective ways.

The future of music education depends on what you and I do as advocates. I would like to challenge you to find ways to promote your program to your local communities. Be visible at school board meetings, PTO meetings; involve administrators in your concerts and presentations. I look forward to working with the AMEABoard and membership to continue the challenge set before us. Remember, as one of my students said to me twenty-five years ago, "Together, we are strong!" Music education is my passion…What is yours?

THE SIXTEENTH ANNUAL

BAND FESTIVAL FOR HIGH SCHOOLSTUDENTS

February 9-11, 2007

Special guest conductor and clinician: Samuel Hazo, composer

Information and nomination forms for the Festival will be mailed to all Alabama high school band directors in October. Please place this event on your calendar now!

AUBURN UNIVERSITYBANDS

132 Goodwin Music Building Auburn University, AL36849-5421 (334) 844-4166

1auband@auburn.edu

www.auburn.edu/auband

From the Vice-President...
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are pleased to announce AUBURN UNIVERSITYHONOR

Alabama Bandmasters Association

Thank You and Welcome Back

As I write this, over the July 4th weekend, I would like to thank all the ABAmembers for a wonderful first year as your president. Our organization truly has some outstanding members. From the Executive Board to the General Membership, we continually strive to do what is best for the band students of Alabama. Just listening to the conversations that were held last week at the summer in-service would make anyone want to continue in our chosen profession. The professionalism and caring of the membership is inspiring. If you were not able to attend the inservice, you missed great clinics and camaraderie. Thanks go out to those members who gave of their time and knowledge for our membership. The clinics presented by Chris Moore, Mike Muncher, Dr. Larry Blocher, Dr. Johnnie Vinson and Dr. Lacy Powell were both informational and enjoyable. Our final concert was presented by the 313th Army Band's Brass Quintet. If you would like to have the 313th come to your school, please contact them. They would love to come and work with your students.

Please be reminded to take care of all ABAmatters in a timely manner. Found in this edition of Ala Breve is a calendar of district and state events. Pay attention to deadlines and make sure all entry forms are completed on time and accurately. All entry forms for 2006-2007 are new. Please do not use any forms from the past years. All updated forms will be on the AMEAwebsite by the beginning of the school year. The site address is www.alabamamea.org. The first thing you need to do is to join MENC. As of June 30 all MENC memberships in Alabama expired. For your students to participate in any ABAevents you must be a member in good standing with MENC. It is easier to renew your membership or join now than it will be the day before the first ABAevent. Visit MENC at www.menc.org to obtain a membership form. All information for the ABADirectory should be forwarded to Gene Gooch by September 15.

Please check this past year's directory to see if any information needs to be changed. If you are new to Alabama (or a new teacher), please get this information to your District Chairman.

Piccolo Lyndsey Hooper, Fairhope HS; Flute Priscilla Wadsworth, West Blockton HS; Oboe Krista Stephenson, Oak Mountain HS; Eb Sop Clar Lindley Buchannon, Prattville HS; Bb Sop Clar Rebekah Dodd, Oak Mountain HS; Alto Clar Paul Caruso, West Point HS; Con Bs Clar Jenney Mandt, Mountain Brook HS; Bassoon Chandler Stapleton, Haleyville HS; Alto Sax James Glasgow, CLay-Chalkville HS; Tenor Sax Justin White, Russellville HS; Bari Sax C. K. Shields, Boaz HS; Cornet Zach Mazzei, Oak Mountain HS; French Horn Alisa Dauro, Catholic HS; Trombone Riley Jones, Vestavia Hills HS; Baritone Norman Huynh, Jeff Davis HS; Tuba Yang Zhong, Northview HS; Percussion Hanna Taylor Cullman HS String Bass Evan Hodges, Athens HS

12 August 2006
2006 All-State Band 1st Chair Red Band Students

The 2007 AMEAConference is again scheduled to be held at the University of Alabama. The dates for the conference are January 18-20. We have an excellent schedule of clinics and concerts. I would like to thank all those members who applied to either present a clinic or to have their band perform. Also scheduled for the conference is the first business meeting of ABAfor the year. I expect to have final reports from both the All-State Realignment Committee (Terry Ownby, Chairman) and the One Contest System Committee (Dane Lawley, Chairman).

Finally thank you to the District Chairmen, ViceChairmen and Executive Board. These members work diligently to make our jobs easier. Please contact any member of the board if you have questions about ABA.

Calendarof ABAevents:

January 18 - 20, 2007 AMEAIn-Service Conference

University of Alabama

State Concert Band Performance Assessment – March 12 – 16

Huntsville High School March 12,13 and 14

University of Alabama – March 12, 13 and 14

Gadsden City High School – March 15, 16

Troy University – March 15, 16

April 18, 2007 All-State Solo FestivalAuburn University

April 19-21, 2007 All-State FestivalAuburn University

June 26, 2007 ABABoard and Music Selection Committee meeting - Orange Beach

June 27-28, 2007 ABASummer ConferenceOrange Beach

AMEAIn-Service Conference
of Alabama
Plan now to attend the
University
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January 18-20, 2007

Alabama Orchestra Association

Happy New Fall to You All

I hope this finds you well and getting into the swing of things after a restful and productive (not too warm!) summer.

I just have a couple of items to report to you. First is information about the AOAAll State Orchestra Festival Composition Competition that will have its inaugural year this season. The membership voted by email ballot this summer to instigate the proposed Competition this year (with no negative votes or questions). I have created a large and involved (72 name) email list for the Alabama Orchestra Association. If you have not received emails from me this summer, please contact me to be included on the list or to clarify any address issues. Likewise, please email me if you would like to be removed. Acopy of this new composition competition proposal is included in this issue.

We have 72 registered AOAmembers (people who have checked the Orchestra box when registering for AMEA and MENC). General meeting attendance is at about 15 at AMEAand ASOF sessions, and email response to summer voting was also on the low side. Please make sure and remain involved! Your voice and presence are very impor-

tant to the life and structure of our organization and we greatly appreciate your support. Being such a large and active bunch of musicians, students, and teachers, we rely greatly on the input and energy of all of our volunteers. Your energy is appreciated and invaluable to keeping our activities going.

To keep this short and sweet (as I'm sure you're all as distracted as I am getting into the swing of things), I'll merely say that everything to do with All State Orchestra Festival 2007 will be posted online this year, including downloadable forms and excerpts for auditions. We will be posting the names and contacts for the districts so that there will be a much easier interface for our festival participants. Thanks for all your patience with this and I look forward to the website's premiere. We will post links in all of the various places (AMEAsite, UAsite, Musicorg, etc). Lift-off for this site will be September 1.

Please also mark your calendars with deadlines and upcoming events pertaining to AOA. I look forward to seeing you all soon! Please email me any time with questions and comments about anything to do with AOAor ASOF!

AOADeadlines All-State Orchestra Festival 2007 Website Launch Sept. 1, 2006 AMEAConference, University of Alabama January 17-20, 2007 All-State Orchestra Festival University of Alabama February 8-11, 2007 14 August 2006

Alabama Orchestra Association Composition Competition

The Alabama Orchestra Association is a division of the Alabama Music Educators' Association. The AOAworks to further the cause of string and orchestral music in the state of Alabama. The primary event sponsored by the AOAis the annual Alabama All-State Orchestra Festival, which is held in February of each year. The All-State Orchestra Festival is a byaudition event for students throughout the state of Alabama. Each year over 225 students in three orchestras participate in a weekend of intensive music making with nationally recognized conductors and educators. The Festival includes a full symphony orchestra (The Festival Orchestra) and two string orchestras (The String Sinfonietta and the Premiere String Orchestra).

Since 2000, the AOAhas been active in the commissioning of new works of music for the All-State Orchestra Festival. Each year, one or more works has received its World Premiere Performance at the All-State Orchestra Festival. In addition, the composers have spent the weekend in residence at the All-State Orchestra Festival. Previous composers have included Stella Sung, Alan Moss, David Durant, James Grant, David Ott, James Woodward, Sandra Dackow, James Lee, Lanette Lind, and Philip Wharton.

In February of 2006, the membership of the Alabama Orchestra Association resolved to make the annual commissioning program into the Alabama Orchestra Association Composition Competition.

The Award - The winning composer will receive a cash award of $1,500. In addition, the winning composition will be performed at the 2007 Alabama All-State Orchestra Festival at the University Of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL, on February 11, 2007. The winning composer will also be award a residency at the 2007 Alabama All-State Orchestra Festival, which will include airfare, accommodations, transportation, and meals.

The winning composer will provide the following to the Alabama Orchestra Association:

>5 copies of the score

>String parts for 10/10/6/6/4

>1 copy of each woodwind, brass, and percussion part.

>Permission to make additional copies as needed for the premiere performance.

Deadline - All materials must be RECEIVED by November 15, 2006. Notification of the results of the competition will be made on December 1, 2006.

Requirements

>The submitted composition must have been composed between January 1, 2005 and December 1, 2006, and must not be published by a major concert or educational publishing house.

>The submitted composition should not have received a previous public performance. The performance at the Alabama All-State Orchestra Festival should be the World Premiere Performance of the work.

>The composition should be for full orchestra. Orchestration should not exceed 2+pic/2+eh/2+bc/2-4/3/3/1timp+3-piano-harp-strings.

>The composition should be an original work. Arrangements and transcriptions are ineligible.

>The duration of the composition should be no less than five minutes, and no greater than ten minutes.

Application procedures

Submit the following:

>Completed application form

>Three copies of the complete score of the composition (no piano reductions)

>Biographical information, including music studies, background, and experience

>List of compositions to date

>Acassette tape or cd of the composition (optional, but recommended) (electronic simulations will beaccepted)

Only one composition per composer may be submitted. The score submitted must be legible, and must bear the composer's name. Cassette tapes and cds must bear the composer's name and the title of the work. Please include a self-addressed stamped envelope with sufficient postage for the return of scores and recordings.

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Collegiate Division

Beyond the Classroom

Another semester of music rehearsals, practicing, homework, and lectures are approaching. With such a busy impeding schedule, now is the time to prepare for our personal, professional, and chapter development.

In order to do this we should prepare the mindset of taking our learning beyond the classroom. There are several ways to do this, first read the monthly magazines that come along with your CMENC membership. Many of the articles contained within these resources will help you prepare for a career as well as provide a great resource for many of the projects you will have to complete during the school year.

Moving beyond reading, which we do every day, another great way to continue the learning experience is to participate in conferences. My fellow officers and I have a very exciting line-up of topics for the AMEAconference, January 18-29 in Tuscaloosa, which will be beneficial for every person. To make the most out of your conference experiences attend sessions outside of your field of expertise, speak with the vendors in the exhibit hall, and socialize with your fellow MENC and CMENC members. There are also several other conferences held every year such as the national MENC conference, the Midwest Clinic, as well as several others.

In addition to conferences, you can choose to get involved in your community by volunteering in classrooms, after school programs, and community outreach groups, such as big brother big sister. Another option is for you to assist music groups in your area by either volunteering your time to assist them or help them find a rehearsal or gathering area. With personal and professional development aside we need to also focus on our chapter development and growth. The recent revision of our constitution calls for chapter accountability. This means that our chapters may no longer sit idle, watch great opportunities pass by and chapter members not becoming involved. As with personal and professional development a great place to start is to encourage your fellow chapter members to attend the AMEAconfer-

ence. Not only will you obtain great information from the sessions, but you will also be able to speak with members of other CMENC chapter to discuss ideas they are using in their chapter that you may want to use in yours. Another reason to attend the conference, for the betterment of your chapter, is the CMENC business meeting. The more members of your chapter who attend, the better represented your school will be in the voting process. In addition to attending the conference another great way to improve your chapter is to have monthly meetings to discuss opportunities that may be available for your members, provide guest speakers, and keep your members updated. Having monthly meetings also provides a great opportunity for fellow music majors to socialize and get to know each other.

There are so many opportunities and learning experiences out there if you just look for them. So, ask questions, read, practice, socialize, and above all have fun. This chapter of our lives will pass before you know it and it will be off to begin another chapter. I look forward to seeing you at the AMEAconference and at our business luncheon.

16 August 2006
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International Association for Jazz Education

Reading the Changes

Randall Key, President, Alabama IAJE

I hope everyone had a wonderful summer and feel refreshed for a brand new school year. One of my great passions in music is improvisation. I thoroughly enjoy reading chord changes and relating them to songs I have played before. I enjoy the risk factor of reading chord changes and the "chance" of my solo being successful. Unfortunately I am not successful every time I play an improvised solo, but I keep trying. The best way to understand chord changes is to listen and play with a professional rhythm section that has a thorough understanding of chord functions.

When I was in college on Sunday nights I would travel to Birmingham and attend the jam sessions down town. Jerry Grundhoffer, "Grundy", was a Birmingham jazz icon for years and an outstanding musician. He was in charge of the jam session and there were some rules you had to abide by. The first rule was Grundy had to invite you to play. When Grundy called you up to the microphone it was your time to play. The second rule was, do not take extended solos. Say what you have to say…. But try to say it in two choruses. The first time I played with the Grundy trio I was very insecure and nervous. We played "In AMellow Tone" and when it came time for my solo I was in for a shock. What I noticed was the feel of the band changed into a four groove and the chords were different the second time through the chorus. I remember asking myself "Did I hear that correctly"? The musicians played substitutions, which really threw my ear for a loop. Panicking was out of the question. I listened to my constants, which were the drums and bass. I understood

exactly what they were doing, but that was my only security on a song, I thought I knew. I got through the solo after one chorus and sat down. Grundy loved the fact that I played one chorus and got out of the way. After that night he invited me to play every time. I really did not sound good on the solo and certainly did not handle the chord changes very well. Naturally the more I experienced the chord changes the better I handled them.

As with each year we encounter changes in curriculum, personnel, scheduling, and even procedure. We must keep in mind change is unavoidable, and many times out of our control. What we can control is how we handle change, and try to make it beneficial to our overall objectives.

One of our changes for this year is all IAJE membership will be attained online at http://www.iaje.org. This is to insure that our members receive all due benefits. IAJE is a wonderful organization that serves educators, musicians and enthusiasts. IAJE membership is consistently growing worldwide and promotes a true American art form.

All-State Jazz Band audition requirements can be found at http://bama.ua.edu/~twolfe/ and downloaded at no cost. This will be our first year to begin the etude rotation. Many thanks to Tom Wolfe for updating our website and writing the etudes for our auditions. Tom is a true promoter of jazz within our state and is always eager to help with our IAJE unit. Also, be sure and visit the AMEAwebsite for information about our Association.

I hope everyone has a fabulous year!

Advisor: John Jinright

Advisor: Martin Cochran

Congratulations to the Alabama 2006 Collegiate Chapter Growth Recognition Recipients: Auburn University Auburn, Alabama
Jane Kuehne Troy University Troy, Alabama
Advisor:
University of Montevallo Montevallo, Alabama
18 August 2006

Celebrating 2007 Festival Dates

22 YEARS

ATLANTA, Georgia

March 30-31, April 13-14, 20-21, 27-28

CHICAGO, Illinois

April 13-14, 20-21, 27-28

GATLINBURG/PIGEONFORGE

Tennessee

April 20-21, 27-28

MYRTLEBEACH, South Carolina

March 23-24, 30-31, April 13-14, 20-21, 27-28, May 4-5

NEWYORK, New York

March 23-24, 30-31, April 13-14, 20-21

PERFORMANCE AREAS

Concert Band / Wind Ensemble / Orchestra / Stage Band

Jazz Band / Guitar Ensemble / Parade

Marching Drum Line / Percussion Ensemble

Indoor Guard / Drill Team / Majorette Squad / Dance Team

Flag Squad / Rifle Squad / Mixed Chorus / Men's Chorus

Treble Chorus / Chamber / Madrigal Choir

Gospel Choir / Jazz Choir / Show Choir

ORLANDO, Florida

March 30-31, April 13-14, 20-21, 27-28

VIRGINIABEACH, Virginia

March 23-24*, 30-31*, April 13-14, 20-21, 27-28, May 4-5*, 11-12*, 18-19*

WASHINGTON, DC

March 30-31, April 13-14, 20-21, 27-28

WILLIAMSBURG, Virginia

March 23-24*, 30-31*, April 13-14, 20-21, 27-28, May 4-5*, 11-12*, 18-19*

* Combined Festivals Williamsburg/ Virginia Beach

For Information Call Toll-Free 1-800-222-6862 6223 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA 23228 (804) 264-8663 FAX (804) 264-6302 e-mail to: Info@fiestaval.com Invitational Music Festivals For Band, Orchestra & Chorus
NEW
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Phi Beta Mu All-State Recordings

D.D. Black

In 1981, Frank McArthur, former president of ABAand I, serving as Instrumental Music Specialist with the Alabama State Department of Education, suggested a project that would make recordings of the All-State tryout material available to the students of Alabama. The concept was turned into reality when I asked several of our teachers at colleges and universities to record the teaching and playing of the scales, audition exercises, and comments on sightreading. These dedicated teachers agreed to perform this service at no cost but were encouraged to submit their address in case students wished to write for more explanation.

The reason for this project that Frank and I suggested is stated by the President of the Rho Chapter at the beginning of each recording. “The Fraternity believes that these recordings offer an excellent example of correct tone quality, mastery of technique, and comments on preparation and interpretation.”

It is important to state the basic areas that Frank and I hoped would be covered by the teachers. The first is a concept of the correct tone quality of the instrument. Having been taught by George Printz, Yale Ellis, and Colonel Butler, we learned that the correct tone was referred to as a concert tone.

In the early years, we found that many students had no idea of the proper concert sound of their instrument. Today, there are so many examples of questionable tone quality being heard, that it is no wonder that the concept of proper tone quality has been somewhat lost. There is also the matter of fingering systems and alternate fingerings for specific passages.

In my teaching career, I observed many young saxophone players that would play the C scale and, upon reaching B, would “swap holes” instead of using the correct side key.

One saxophone student at the University of Alabama Summer Band Camp was asked what the side keys were used for on the instrument. He said that “they just came with the instrument.” Many of our teachers cover this area very well. On trombone, for example, Dan Drill frequently teaches short slide positions and the reason for using them. Rick Good explains in detail short grace notes and long grace notes. Ray Smith also does an excellent job of explaining fingering, breathing and plays verious examples.

There are 14 Senior High School instruments and in 1994, the 14 Junior High School instruments were added. The teachers began recording on reel tape, went to cassettes, and then to digital tapes, or DAT. Each year, all of the master recordings are checked for accuracy and edited for the best quality by volume adjustment, equalization, and added reverb.

At their yearly meeting, the Music Selection Committee reviews the ABA requirements and the recordings to make sure that all of the instructions and recordings are correct.

THE ORDER BLANKS are always placed in the center of the ABAHandbook which is mailed to each director throughout the state.

For several years, each teacher would record the scales and teach the exercises with comments on a new tape and I would assemble these, check the page numbers, starting and ending places and other instructions from the ABAHandbook. President Brannan suggested that when one of our outstanding teachers left the

News
features
20 August 2006

state, we continue to use his recordings if possible. I immediately wrote a short script to be read by the teachers leaving stating their previous teaching position and saying that they were happy to continue to cooperate with the Rho Chapter by continuing to furnish the recordings of the All-State materials.

Some of these teachers are Franck Avril, professor of Oboe at the University of Alabama, Malcolm Crawford, professor of Bassoon at the University of Alabama, David Eisler, Assistant Dean of the School of Music and instructor of Clarinet at Troy University, Randall Faust, professor of Horn at Auburn University, Mike Dunn, professor of Tuba at the University of Alabama, and Percussion segments from Greg Byrne, Assistant Director of Bands and head of Percussion Studies at Auburn University, and David Waters, Assistant Director of Bands and Percussion instructor at Muscle Shoals High School.

The present faculty consists of: Karen Garrison - Piccolo and Flute at Auburn University, Jimmy Simpson, Head, Dept. of Music and instructor in Clarinet at The University of North Alabama, Ray Smith - Alto and Tenor Saxophone at Troy University, Robert Bean - Trumpet and Head, Department of Music at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville, Dan Drill - Trombone at the University of Alabama, Rick Good - Euphonium,

Associate Director of Bands and Low Brass instructor at Auburn University. Our new Percussion teacher is Dr. Gene Fambrough, Assistant Director of Bands and Percussion instructor at UAB in Birmingham, Alabama.

I have learned much from these teachers in listening to them for the past 30 plus years. The teaching and performance on these recordings is excellent. Let me encourage you to locate the order blanks, make copies for your students, and use these excellent examples, not only for AllState preparation, but for outstanding teaching examples.

D.D. Black returned from Korea in 1957 and was appointed Director of Bands at Bellingrath and Baldwin Junior High and was Assistant Director at Lanier High School. In 1966 he was appointed Instrumental Music Specialist with the Alabama State Department of Education. During this period, he completed the AACertification program at AUM. As Chairman of the Alabama Alliance For Arts Education Committee, he sponsored five state workshops featuring the topic of "Left Brain / Right Brain, an advocacy for the arts." that was was introduced by Dr. Paul Brandwein in Washington, D.C. The Phi Beta Mu recording project was started and continued through this period.

D. D. was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 1984 for his efforts in starting and maintaining this project. He retired from the SDE in 1993.

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Advice to Graduate Students

Like many of you, I began a new job last fall (2005). This was a long distance move (from upstate New York to Auburn, AL) but not the first one. My public school teaching experience was in Texas. When I decided to pursue a Ph.D., I went half way across the country to Florida State University (go Seminoles!). After FSU, I took my first job and moved to upstate New York to work at Hartwick College. Now, I have moved once again to Auburn where I hope to stay.

Now that I have the opportunity to work with graduate students, may who will be dealing with some of these same changes in the future, I thought it might be valuable to sit down and reflect a little on the stresses these kinds of changes create, and to try to provide some advice from someone who has recently made the transition from graduate school to faculty member.

When moving to a new city and/or state to stay for a short while (2-3 years) to obtain a graduate degree, one might have the tendency to avoid making connections since it is almost inevitable that another move, is in the near future. The typical "why bother" attitude. Let me give you my first piece of advice: make connections. When we move on after the degree is completed, it is difficult to leave who we know and our familiar surroundings. However, making connections is what we need to do as students, as musicians, as teachers, as humans. There is common knowledge we all have that we can compare and draw upon when we see each other at conferences to present together or just visit. To any student, undergraduate, masters, specialist, doctoral, my advice is to make strong connections and keep them! You never know what the future can bring. Having these types of connections can provide future opportunities.

After FSU I had several interviews for jobs and decided to take a position at Hartwick College in upstate New York.

Job advice? Try to fit in, make a positive contribution, and do your job with competence and professionalism. Offer help when you feel you can actually help. Trust and treat your colleagues with respect and represent this to your students, especially since some students will travel from office to office looking for the one soul who will give them reinforcement for bad-mouthing faculty members. Remember, what goes around comes around! If the opportunity affords itself, say yes to a committee invitation (although be careful - you don't want to spend your life in committee meetings!). Go to full faculty meetings and get involved with what is going on at your campus - sports, theater, music (of course!), art, faculty presentations, etc.

Understanding who you are and what kinds of things you want to do in your job is very important. While I enjoyed working at Hartwick, I had little time for research and writing. Hopefully your first job will be the job. But if not, remember there are others out there. Yes, moving again is stressful, but it also provides opportunities for change and growth, which is part of human nature. I had a wonderful professor who gave me this advice: you need to determine not only where you would be willing to work, but also the kinds of institutions in which you should work. If you primarily want to teach and write less, a research institution may not be the best choice for you and vice versa. During your graduate studies, learn about yourself and determine the kind of institution in which you should work. Look at maps and information online about communities where these institutions are located. I have heard colleagues say they really want to live in a certain place, or they really want to work in a certain university. I am not here to say it could not happen, because you never know the future. However, I think it is much healthier to look forward to what lies ahead and to find a place that is suitable for who you are. This could be your hometown, or it could be across the country.

News features
22 August 2006
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24 August 2006
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Higher Education Division

Networking and Support forMusic Faculty and the Future of Music in Alabama

Kimberly C. Walls, President, Higher Ed Division

Welcome back to fall semester. In all the additional duties fall brings-audition, orientations, faculty meetings, student interviews, and settling course enrollments-let's recall that music faculty are all about improving the state of music in the state of Alabama. We do so by being role models, mentors, advisers, and, not least of all, music teachers for the college students we are privileged to encounter each fall. A timely word of encouragement to a college student (as well as careful constructive criticism) can make all the difference in his or her life and the lives of their future music students. One encounter with a student this fall may result in numbers of future music majors choosing to or choosing not to study music in college.

It is amazing to consider the impact music faculty can have on the supply and quality of professional school music teachers (and future higher education faculty). Although many school music teachers make the decision to teach when they are middle school or high school students, a large number of music teachers make that decision while they are in college. This fall look for students who have a passion for music or a passion for young people; they might be excellent school music teachers. Most of our students will not land symphony gigs or university positions, but as music teachers they can pursue musical excellence and advance musical culture in our society. Tell them about the benefits of a career of teaching music and urge them to spend time in a school setting where the music teacher has a positive personality. (Let's keep our personalities positive too!)

Higher education music faculty need encouragement too. The purpose of the Higher Education Division is to provide professional development and networking opportunities for music instructors. We maintain an e-mail list of over 250 higher education members and we sponsor sessions at the annual conference. Many HED members present sessions at the conference for K-12 music teachers.

The Higher Education Division's focus this year is the role of applied music studies in the development of school music teachers. Although all HED members are musicianteachers, music majors often look to the applied instructor as the model musician-

teacher and the curriculum depends on the applied studio to develop independent performers. Anumber of HED members will be presenting sessions and concerts relating to best practices in the applied studio. The intent is to network with colleagues across the state to consider learn what works for them in the preparation of future music teachers. We want to publish articles from our members related to this focus in Ala Breve. Please send articles to me for possible inclusion. The due dates are printed in the magazine.

Welcome to new faculty! If there are new faculty at your institution please send me their e-mail addresses and phone numbers so we can personally invite them to join HED. Ala Breve regularly publishes bios of new faculty, so please send that information to the magazine editor.

Best wishes to past-president Julie Skadsem in her new position at the University of Michigan. Thanks again to Julie for all she has done over the years to promote HED. For such a petite professor, Julie left some big shoes to fill. Please submit nominations for president-elect by September 15. Please send nominations to any of the officers or if HED may be of assistance to you contact us:

26 August 2006

Alabama Vocal Association

ANew Beginning?

Paul Edmondson, President, AVA

Yes, indeed! Even though my career in music education has spanned twenty-seven years, I am, in essence, starting over. As you probably know, my (former) school, Emma Sansom, along with Gadsden High and Litchfield High, have consolidated into one - Gadsden City High School. What a challenge it will be to teach students who have never been exposed to choral music education alongside those who have participated in all AVA/ AMEAevents. We have just completed our move to Gadsden City High School. It was quite an undertaking, moving three schools into one, but what a reward! We look forward to having you visit our campus, as we will be hosting some AVAand ABAevents.

With this upcoming school year, we, as an organization, will also be greeted with change. At Summer Board this year Cathy Shelton (Hoover HS), our new AVA Webmaster, gave a wonderful presentation on our website, alavocal.org. This website will be filled with valuable information - dates, forms, All-State lists and clinicianseverything imaginable! Thanks again Cathy for the hard work! While you're on the web, try out the AMEAwebsite also. It's great that we have such tremendous resources at our fingertips.

The AVAFall Workshop will be held September 8th and 9th at Mountain Brook Baptist Church in Birmingham. A special note of appreciation goes to Ken Berg and the staff at MBBC for always being such gracious hosts. This year's theme will be "Caught in the Web" and will center on our new website. Cathy Shelton will be presenting some training sessions on using the site. Our guest clinicians will be Dr. Steven Curtis (HS SATB) and Julian Ackerley (MS Mixed) who will present their programs for All-State. Performances at this year's workshop will be choirs from Shades Valley HS, Hewitt-Trussville HS, Oxford MS, Oak Mountain MS, and Homewood MS.

Good luck as we start this new school year. If at any time I, or any other AVABoard member, can assist you, please let us know. It is the genuine desire of the Board to be a strong resource for you, providing new and fresh ideas nurtured with experience. Remember to join MENC, check out the websites, get your forms in on time, start practicing All-State music, register for Fall Workshop, and, oh, have a great year!

AVAStatewide Events

Fall Workshop

September 8-9, 2006

MountainBrook Baptist Church,Birmingham,AL

StateLevelOutstandingChoralStudent

February 28,2007

All-State Festival

March 1-3, 2007

Samford University, Birmingham, AL

State Performance Evaluation

April 30 - May 2, 2007

Venues:

Gadsden City High School

Bluff Park United Methodist - Birmingham

Montgomery Site TBA

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AMEAmembers in front of the Salt Palace Conference Center at the MENC National Biennial In-Service Conference in Salt Lake City last April. Standing in front is MENC Composition winner Andrew Wilson.
28 August 2006

Elementary/General Division

Keep the Fire Lit

I love the first week of school! I love how clean the school looks, how clean my classroom looks (that is pretty rare!), the excitement of the first day, meeting your new colleagues and seeing the old ones again. I love to see how the students grow up just over the summer months and the privilege of meeting the new ones. I love seeing which child ended up in who's class and deciding who's classes are going to be great and who's are going to be a challenge! Isn't it great to be the music teacher and have all of these opportunities?

We pull out our favorite "beginning of the year" lessons and enthusiastically begin our curriculum. We set personal goals of what we want to accomplish by the year's end. We eagerly organize our closets, our classrooms, our lives for the new year ahead.

The year goes by in a whirlwind. All of a sudden, it's time to start holiday material, half the year is gone. How far have we gotten in reaching our goals? Have we accomplished what we set out to do? Are we as organized and as enthusiastic as we were on the first day of school? Maybe. Maybe not.

What are some things we can do to keep the "fire" lit in us throughout the year? How can we renew ourselves on a frequent basis? Below are some things you can do!

1. Attend local and state workshops. Various organizations throughout the state hold conferences and workshops throughout the year that are full of ideas and information that revive our enthusiasm for our profession.

2. Read your professional magazines. Not only can you stay informed, but also be inspired by the articles and lesson plans.

3. Keep in touch with fellow music teachers in your area. It's always nice to have someone to talk with that is in similar shoes!

4. Bring in help! There are many musicians and performing groups that are set up to come into the schools to perform or teach classes for a period of time. Everyone likes to see a fresh face every now and then. Our students love to learn from what others have to offer and we can be inspired by someone else's love for the fine arts.

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AMEADivision2006Events - 2007

Alabama Orchestra Association

Alabama Bandmasters Association

AMEAIn-Service Conference/All-State Jazz Band

January 18-20, University of Alabama

State Band Competition Festival

March 12-14, 2007 - Huntsville High School

March 12-14, 15, 2007 - University of Alabama

March 15-16, 2007 - Gadsden City High School

March 15-16, 2007 - Troy University

All-State Solo Festival

April 18, Auburn University

All-State Band Festival

April 19-21, Auburn University

SummerIn-Service Conference

June 26-28, Hilton Garden Inn Orange Beach

All-State Orchestra Festival 2007 Website Launch Sept. 1, 2006 AMEAConference University of Alabama January 17-20, 2007 All-State Orchestra Festival University of Alabama February 8-11, 2007
DISTRICT 1 District HonorBand February 23-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Austin High School All-State Band Auditions Jan. 26-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sparkman High School District Band Assessment Feb. 14-16, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grissom High School Feb. 15-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Decatur High School Solo & Ensemble Festival April 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hartselle High School April 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Meridianville Middle School DISTRICT 2 District HonorBand February 2-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gadsden State All-State Band Auditions January 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jacksonville High School District Band Assessment February 15-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..........Gadsden State Solo & Ensemble Festival March 10..................................................... Jacksonville High School April 28..........................................................................................TBA DISTRICT 3 District HonorBand February 23-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cullman High School All-State Band Auditions January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Muscle Shoals High School District Band Assessment February 12-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cullman High School February 15-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .University of North Alabama Solo & Ensemble Festival May 5....................................... University of North Alabama DISTRICT 4 District HonorBand February 22-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Homewood High School All-State Band Auditions January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hoover High School District Band Assessment February 13-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Clay-Chalkville High School February 13-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chelsea High School Solo & Ensemble Festival December 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Clay Chalkville High School May 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bragg Middle School May 12 Thompson Middle School DISTRICT 5 District HonorBand February 23-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .University of West Alabama All-State Band Auditions January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Prattville High School District Band Assessment February 14-15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . University of Alabama Solo & Ensemble Festival April 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . Prattville High School TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TBA DISTRICT 6 District HonorBand March 9-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Auburn High School All-State Band Auditions January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Opelika High School District Band Assessment February 13-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Opelika High School Solo & Ensemble Festival March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Auburn University April 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Trinity Presbyterian DISTRICT 7 District Band Assessment February 6-7 (HS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Murphy High School February 8-9(MS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mary Montgomery High School All-State Band Auditions January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Davidson High School Solo & Ensemble Festival April 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mary Montgomery High School May 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fairhope High School DISTRICT 8 District HonorBand February 23-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Troy University All-State Band Auditions January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Troy Elementary School District Band Assessment February 14-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Troy University Solo & Ensemble Festival TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TBA
30 August 2006

Alabama Vocal Association

Fall Workshop - September 8-9, 2006 , Mountain Brook Baptist Church State Level Outstanding Choral Student Auditions - February 28, 2007

AMEA & All-State Show Choir - January 18-20, 2007, University of Alabama

All-State Choral Festival - March 1-3 2007, Samford University, Birmingham State Level Performance Evaluations - April 30-May 2

DISTRICT 1 OA Decatur October
OCS TBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TBA All-State Auditions TBA.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 9 Spring DPE Decatur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 13 Florence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 14 Solo & Ensemble TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .March 16 DISTRICT 2 OA Indian Springs Bapt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .October 12 OCS Indian Springs Bapt. ........................................January 11 All-State Auditions Riverchase UMC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 15 Spring DPE Tuscaloosa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 24Riverchase UMC February 26-27 Solo & Ensemble TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .March 17 DISTRICT 3 Fall S/E Pizitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .October 25 Fall DPE Bluff Park. .Oct 23-24 OA Pizitz October 26 OCS Bluff Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .January 30 All-State Auditions Bluff Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 16 Spring DPE Bluff Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 21-23 Spring S/E Pizitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .March 13 DISTRICT 4 Fall S/E TBA.................................................................... September 28 OA Oxford HS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 6 OCS Oxford HS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .December 4 All-State Auditions TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 17 Spring DPE Gadsden City HS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 19-20 Spring S/E TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .April 10 DISTRICT 5 OA Whitesburg MS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .October 26 OCS Whitesburg MS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .January 23 All-State Auditions Willowbrook Bapt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 7-8 Spring DPE TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 12-13 Solo & Ensemble TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .May 3-4 DISTRICT 6 Fall S/E Auburn University. November 3 OA Tallassee HS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .October 25 OCS Tallassee HS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .January 10 All-State Auditions St. James Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 14 Spring DPE Tallassee 1st Bapt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 15 Spring S/E Auburn University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .March 16 DISTRICT 7 Fall S/E TBA. October 30 Fall DPE TBA...................................................... October 31 OA Spanish Fort HS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .October 24 OCS Spanish Fort HS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .January 23 All-State Auditions TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 13 Spring S/E TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 15
12
Elementary/General Division Fall Workshop September 16, 2006 Location: TBA ala breve 31

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When your colleagues join MENC: The National Association for Music Education, they automatically become a member of Alabama Music Educators Association. From local activities to national issues, MENC and AMEA offer the combination of services and benefits music educators need!

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❒ Yes, I want to join MENC and Alabama MEA. I understand that membership extends for one year from the date dues arereceived. Credit card holders may join by calling 1-800-828-0229, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Eastern Time. Rates expire 5-31-2007.

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Please return this form with payment to: MENC . 1806 Robert Fulton Drive, Reston, VA20191

If you have recently retired please call 1-800-828-0229 for the retired dues rate.

CardNo. Exp.Date Signature
Name Home Address City/State/Zip Phone/E-Mail School Name School Address City/State/Zip Phone Preferred E-Mail Send Materials to ❒ Home ❒ School
Teaching Level Teaching Area
Preschool ❒ Choral ❒ Teacher
Elementary ❒
Education
Professional Areas
Band
Junior/Middle School ❒
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Orchestra
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Guitar Theory/
Administrator/
Private/Studio ❒ Special
❒ Voice ❒ Research ❒
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General Music Composition ❒
Learners
Mariachi
32 August 2006

AMEAGoverning Board Meeting

June 12, 2006

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama Building, 450 Riverchase Parkway East Birmingham, AL35244

The AMEAGoverning Board met at the Blue Cross Blue Shield Building June 12, 2006. The meeting was called to order at 9:20 a.m. by AMEAPresident, Becky Rodgers. Present at the meeting were: Cindy Pass, John Baker, Becky Rodgers, Paul Edmondson, Pat Stegall, Carl Hancock, Garry Taylor, Melissa Kimbrough, Allen Bailey, Harry McAfee, Melissa Thomason and Ginger Zingara.

Acopy of the minutes were given to each member present and they read them individually. Paul Edmondson (Cindy Pass) made a motion to accept the minutes as presented. carried

Allen Bailey (Melissa Thomason) made a motion to accept the Treasurer's report. carried Officer, Representatives, and Division Reports

PresidentBecky Rodgers

Executive DirectorGarry Taylor

Harry McAfee (Carl Hancock) made a motion to increase the fee for exhibitors for the Conference from $250.00 to $300.00. carried Ala BreveGarry Taylor

Becky Rodgers and the AMEAGoverning Board commended Garry for the excellent editions of the Ala Breve this year.

Elementary/GeneralMelissa Thomason

AVAPaul Edmondson

ABAHarry McAfee

Higher EdCarl Hancock

CMENCGinger Zingara

AAAEMelissa Kimbrough

Old Business

1. State Course of Study still not available to review on the Alabama State Department of Education website.

2. FAME sessions to be held at the 2007 Conference

3. Hall of Fame deadline extended to July 15, 2006

4. Conference Suggestions

Hire a Stage Manager

Higher Ed representatives to receive a special pass to attend

Higher Ed representatives seeking opportunities to perform

5. The terminology for Music Festivals has been changed to Music Assessment

New Business

1. Executive Director/Ala Breve Editor evaluation

2. Budget requests

Higher Ed$1000.00

CMENC$1000.00

Elementary/General$4200.00

3. Amotion to approve the budget presented by the budget committee was made by Ginger Zingara (Paul Edmondson) carried

4. Other New Business:

Amotion was presented by Carl Hancock to conduct a detailed study of music teacher attrition and retention in the State of Alabama. This study will be done by Carl in cooperation with the AMEAExecutive Director. The motion was sanctioned by John Baker (Becky Rodgers) carried

5. Amotion was made by Melissa Thomason (Allen Bailey) to increase compensation for mileage from $0.32 per mile to $0.40 per mile. carried

6. Ginger Zingara presented a Mentoring Program to be studied and possibly implemented throughout the State. Cindy Pass (Carl Hancock) made a motion to further promote the study. carried

7. Shirley Ellison presented a proposal, on Chris Cooper's behalf to hold a Young Composers competition throughout the State. John Baker (Ginger Zingara) made a motion to accept this proposal. Carried

8.Ken McGuire and Scott Bridges from the University of Alabama presented a proposal for advocacy for music teachers to be added state-wide. They were invited to attend the August meeting of the AMEAGoverning Board to supply more information.

9. Presentations were made to Outgoing President Becky Rodgers and Recording Secretary Allen Bailey on behalf of the AMEA Governing Board.

10. The next meeting will be held at the Sheraton Four Points on the campus of the University of Alabama. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. on August 19, 2006.

The meeting was adjourned at 3:30 p.m. by Becky Rodgers.

Respectfully Submitted, Allen Bailey, Secretary

ala breve 33

Research in Music Education

Research Opportunities Abound!

If you are interested in participating in research activities, you don't have to look far! Of course, the research division of AMEAwill have sessions at the 2007 In-Service Conference and we encourage anyone who is interested to take advantage of these learning experiences. And Ala Breve is always on the look-out for articles from Higher Education members or their graduate students . . . share your latest research project! You might be surprised at the response of others around the state.

Here is just a sampling of other Call for Papers that have been issued recently:

SDMENC/SCMEAJoint Conference Poster Session, Charleston, SC

February 8-10 2007

Deadline for submission: December 1, 2006

Abstract and completed research reports can be sent electronically to Dr. Jeremy S. Lane, SCMEAResearch Chair at jlane@mozart.sc.edu. (Don't forget to include name, title, affiliation, address, email, phone and fax numbers on a separate title page). Or send four copies of abstract and report to: Dr. Jeremy S. Lane, SCMEAResearch Chair, University of South Carolina School of Music, 813 Assembly, Columbia, SC 29208

Policies and Practices: Rethinking

Music Teacher Preparation in the 21st Century

Campus of Columbia University, NY

January 14-16, 2007

Scholars and teachers interested in presenting at the symposium should send an abstract and a list of resources pertaining to the topic electronically to Rideout@music.umass.edu or by mail to Roger Rideout, Department of Music and Dance, Fine Arts Center, #273, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA01003 by October 1, 2006.

Suncoast Music Education Research Symposium

University of South Florida

February 1-3, 2007

Paper submission guidelines are available at http://smers.arts.usf.edu

Anyone can access a complete list of the SRME State Research Chairpersons from across the country at www.menc.org Here are the contact numbers for our region:

Alabama - Diane Orlofsky, dorlof@troy.edu

Florida - Timothy Brophy, timothysbrophy@cox.net

Georgia - Roy Legette ,rlegette@uga.edu

Louisiana - James Goodman,goodman@ulm.edu

Mississippi - Alan Spurgeon, aspurg@olemiss.edu

N. Carolina - Dan Johnson, johnsond@uncw.edu

S. Carolina - Jeremy Lane, jlane@mozart.sc.edu

Tennessee - William Lee, lee22@comcast.net

Alabama has a small but strong and collegial research core . . . come and join us! Making a lasting contribution to the field of music and music education may not be as difficult as you might think and you might even have fun doing it!

34 August 2006
ala breve 35

Alabama Music Educators Association Young Composers Competition

The AMEA Young Composers Competition has beentedcrea to encourage Alabama’s developing student composers by providing professional level review and consideration. By recognizing outstanding student compositions, this process will support Alabama musichersteacby recognizing their efforts to incorporate the MENC national standards.

It is also hoped that this kind of professional recogniti on will provide a showcase for the composition talents of these young Alabama musicians.

Competition Guidelines and Regulations

Eligibility: Open to students grades K-College

Requirements: Compose a solo, song, string quartet, concerto,anyormedium of choice in one of the categories.

Score Format: TWO copies of an original score must be sent with the entry form. Hand-written and computergenerated formats are accepted.Measures MUST be numbered on each score submitted. Tape, CD or computer generated record ings are encouraged but not mandatory.

Contest Rules and Procedures:

1. Sponsoring teacher must be an AMEA member.

2. Entries must be original unpublished compositions. Notranscriptions or arrangements will be eligible.

3. The purpose of the competition is to encourage studentcomposers. Therefore, the compositions must be conceived and constructed by the composer.

4. Entries shall be between 1-8 minutes in length.

5. Adjudications comments will be availableafter all entries have been reviewed.

6. Compositions must be submitted with a full score.Recordings are welcomebut not mandatory. Please do not send parts with you score.

7. The composer’s name must appear on the scoreand recording (if available). The date of the composition must appear on the title page.

8. All entries must be postmarked by OCTOBER 29. 2006 . Entries received after the deadline will not be considered.

9. Finalists will be selected from each Division and Category, the judges will determine how many finalists will be selected.

10. All rights, including copyrighting, remain with the composer.

11. Submitted materials will not be returned.

12. Compositions submitted must not be published a nd must not have won any other competitions.

13. The Panel of judges may include qualified Universitycomposition faculty, members of the music industry, composers and other music educators. Their d ecision will be final, with the right to withhold awards in the event that no entry is judged worthy.

14. Each composer may submit one entry.

15. Finalist(s) will be recognized at the AMEA convention.

Judging: Entries will be accepted in the following divisions and categories:

Division 1 - Elementary (K-5)

Division 2 - Middle (6-8)

Division 3 - High (9-12)

Division 4 - College

Composers may enter a piece from any of the FIVE categories below: Category A : Solo composition (including songithw accompaniment; orchestral instrument with accompaniment, e.g. violin sonata).

36 August 2006

Category B : Chamber piece for duo, trio, quintet, etc. (other than string quartet).

Category C : Orchestral/Band/Choral. (large ensemble work)

Category D : String Quartet.

Category E : Jazz – a piece for jazz ensemble.(combo or large ensemble)

Points (100): 30 points – structure, musical creativity, and development.

30 points – compositional technique; use of instrument(s).

30 points – melodic, rhythmicand harmonic consideration.

10 points – presentation (to include correct musical notation).

Judging: All entrants will receive a written critique from the judging panel.The decision of the judging panel is final.

Prizes & Awards: Composition finalists will be recognized at the AMEA conference.

Entry fee: $20.00Checks should be made payable to AMEA.

Deadline: Postmarked on or beforeOctober 29, 2006

Entry: Send composition and completed entry form to: AMEA Young Composers Competition

c/o Chris Cooper Homewood Middle School

395 Mecca Ave. Homewood, AL 35209

2006-2007 AMEA Young Composers Competition – APPLICATION FORM

NAME_______________________________________________ BIRTH DATE____/____/____GRADE_________DIVISION_________ ADDRESS______________________________________________CITY______________________STATE_______ZIP______________ TELEPHONE_________________PARENT/GUARDIAN_________________________________ EMAIL_________________________ TITLE OF COMPOSITION__________________________________________________________________________________________ CATEGORY(A,B,C,D,E)__________DATE OF C OMPOSITION_______/_______/_______ SCHOOL_________________________________________ SCHOOL ADDRESS_____________________________________________ MUSIC TEACHER____________________________________________ PHONE#____________________________________________ MUSIC TEACHER EMAIL_____________________________________________MENC#______________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ SIGNATURE OF COMPOSER ___________________________________________________________________ SIGNATURE OF PARENT/GUARDIAN ___________________________________________________________________ SIGNATURE OF TEACHER ENTRY FEE(S) $_________ CHECK # _________ ala breve 37

AMEAGoverning Board 2006-2007

President

John Baker

Enterprise High School

500 Watts Avenue Enterprise, AL36330

(334) 347-2640 School

(334) 347-3144 Fax

jbaker@ehs.enterpriseschools.net

602 Henderson Street Enterprise, AL36330

(334) 393-1376 Home

Past President

Becky Rodgers

Fort Payne High School

201 45th Street, N

Fort Payne, AL35967

(256) 845-4051 School

brodgers@ftpayk12.org

2501 Briarwood Avenue #22

Ft. Payne, AL35967

(256) 845-4613 Home

(256) 996-3252 Cell

REBECCARODGERS@aol.com

President-Elect

Pat Stegall

Muscle Shoals High Schoo

1900 Avalon Avenue

Muscle Shoals, AL35661

(256) 389-2682 School

(256) 389-2689 Fax

pstegall@mscs.k12.al.us

170 Kenwood Drive

Muscle Shoals, AL35661

(256) 446-8396 Home

(256) 627-4661 Cell

Recording Secretary

Carla Gallahan

212 Smith Hall, Troy University

Troy, AL36082

(334) 670-3502 School

cgallahan@troy.edu

Treasurer

Cindy Pass

1612 2nd Avenue SW#181

Cullman, AL35055

(256) 747-8838 Home

(256) 338-4404 Cell

cpass@cullmancats.net

Executive Director

Editor, Ala Breve

Garry Taylor

1046 Chinook St. Auburn, AL36830

(256) 636-2754

amea@charter.net

Collegiate MENC Advisor

Virginia Zingara

Troy University

206 Smith Hall

Troy, AL36082

334-670-3985 School

vzingara@troy.edu

President, HigherEducation

Dr. Kimberly C. Walls

Dept. of Curriculum and Teaching

5040 Haley Center

Auburn University, AL36849

(334) 844-6892 School

(334) 844-6789 Fax kim.walls@auburn.edu

President, ABA

Rusty Logan

Auburn High School

405 South Dean Road

Auburn, AL36830

(334) 887-4986 School

(334) 821-8907 Home

(334) 663- 1702 Cell

(334) 887-4177 Fax rlogan@auburnschools.org

President, AOA

Maggie Snyder Box 870366

104 Moody Music Building

School of Music

University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL35487

(205) 348-3126 School

(205) 246- 5071 Home

maggieviola@comcast.net

President, AVA

Paul Edmondson

Gadsden City High School

1917 Black Creek Parkway

Gadsden, AL35901

(256) 543-4225 School

pedmondson@ttc.gcs.k12.al.us

4941 Tawannah Trail

Gadsden, AL35903

256-492-8123 - Home

256-490-8622 - Cell

President, Elementary/General

Melissa Thomason

2686 Piedmont Drive

Bessemer, AL35022

205-424-1752 Home

McAdory Elementary School

6251 Eastern Valley Rd.

McCalla, AL35111

205-379-4650 School

melissathomason@jefcoed.com

melissathomason@bellsouth.net

President, CMENC

Michelle Cross

(850) 774-8817 Cell

jcross23291@troy.edu

State Department of Education

Sara B. Wright

Arts Education Specialist

State Department of Education

P.O. Box 30201

Montgomery, AL36130-2101

(334) 242-8059 Work

1-800-846-0948 Work

(334) 242-0482 Fax

swright@alsde.edu

Alabama Alliance forArts Education

Melissa Kimbrough

Community Relations Rep.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of AL

450 Riverchase Parkway

Birmingham, AL35244

(205) 220-4122 Work

(205) 515-4376 Cell

(205) 220-2576 Fax

mkimbrough@bcbsal.org

38 August 2006
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