President Sara Womack Greystone Elementary School 300 Village Street Birmingham, AL 35242-6447 (205) 439-3200
saratwomack@gmail.com
President, ABA Rusty SmithsCourson Station High School P.O. Box 253 Smiths Station, AL 36877 (334) 664-4435 courson.rusty@lee.k12.al.us
Past PresidentSteve DothanMcLendon High School 1236 S. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36301 (334)dhstigerband@aol.com 794-0146 School
President, AOA Lisa Caravan Auburn University 101 Goodwin Music Building Auburn University, AL 36849 caravanlr@auburn.edu (334) 844-8192
President, AVA
Jody Powell St. Paul’s Epicopal School 161 Dogwood Lane Mobile, AL 36608 251-463-6961 jpowell@stpaulsmobile.net
Industry Representative Becky Lightfoot Arts Music Shop 3030 East Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36116 334/271-2787
beckyl@artsmusicshop.com
Garry Taylor, Editor & Advertising Manager 1600 Manor Dr. NE Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 636-2754
amea@bellsouth.net
Collegiate AMEAAdvisor Ted UnivesityHoffman of Montevallo Station 6670 Davis Music Building 308 Montevallo, AL 35115 (205) 665-6668
ehoffman@montevallo.edu
President-Elect
Carl Hancock University of Alabama Box 870366 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 (205) 348-6335 chancock@bama.ua.edu
Executive Director Editor, Ala Breve Garry Taylor 1600 Manor Dr. NE Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 636-2754
amea@bellsouth.net
Treasurer Chris Walker Clay-Chalkville Middle School 6700 Trussville Clay Road Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 379-3100
christopherwalker@jefcoed.com
President, Higher Education Lori Ardovino University of Montevallo Station 6670 Montevallo, AL 35115 (205) 666-6670 ardovinl@montevallo.edu
Recording Secretary Carla Gallahan 212 Smith Hall, Troy University Troy, AL 36082 (334) 670-3502 School cgallahan@troy.edu
President, Collegiate AMEA Ethan Lolley UNA Box 7710 1 Harrison Plaza Florence, AL 35632 (205) 269-9426
ellolley@una.edu
President, Elem/Gen Karla Hodges Rock Quarry Elementary 2000 Rock Quarry Dr. Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 759-8347
karlahodges@gmail.com
ADVERTISING & COPY DEADLINES Fall - August/September (Back to School) issue: July 15 Winter - October/November (Conference) issue: September 15 Spring - February/March (All-State) issue: January 15 Summer - May/June (Digital Only) issue: April 15
Unless otherwise indicated, permission is granted to NAfME members to reprint articles for educational purposes. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of AMEA or the Editor. All announcements & submissions are subject to editorial judgement/revision.The Alabama Music Educators Association is a state unit of NAfME: 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 NAfME/AMEA membership is open to all persons engaged in music teaching or other music education work.
Ala Breve is published four times a year (August, October, February & May) by the Alabama Music Educators Association. Subscription for members is $4.00 per year as part of annual NAfME/AMEA dues. Subscriptions for non-members is $15.00 per year. Bulk rate postage paid at Dothan, AL.
When I began the journey as AMEA President two years ago, I heeded the advice of Arnold Glasgow. He said, “In life, as in football, you won’t go far unless you know where the goalposts are.” So, I set forth a list of goalposts that I would work toward during my tenure. We have met almost all of them and in the process, have improved the overall functionality and performance of our association for the benefit our members. The following details an overview of our progress:
Increase membership of underrepresented populations.
o Make connections to younger members and potential members through social opportunities and recognition.
The first AMEA Outstanding Young Music Educators Award was awarded to James Schaeffer at this year’s conference.
A scholarship for future music educators will be awarded for the first time in the fall of 2014.
Alabama students continue to represent the state in national ensembles sponsored by NAfME. We financially supported the students participating in the All-National Ensembles.
o Build affiliations with the music industry through membership opportunities and acknowledgement.
An industry membership category was added to our bylaws. Now, we have nearly fifteen industry members. Industry representative Becky Lightfoot from Art’s Music serves on the Governing Board in an ex officio capacity and has made great contributions in a short amount of time.
o Reach out to retired members by offering opportunities to share their expertise.
A Past Presidents Committee was established with over ten past presidents attending the first meeting in January 2013. The Committee serves as a resource to the Governing Board and will recommend new inductees to the Hall of Fame. The Immediate Past President serves as chair of the committee.
Historian Frank Buck has investigated award recipients, biographical information on past presidents, and band contest data. His results have been published on the AMEA website and in the Ala Breve.
Strengthen relationships with current members.
o Gain data regarding wishes and necessities of members through a survey.
A survey of music educators throughout the state has been conducted and a report has been published on the AMEA website. The well-received survey has provided a considerable amount of useful data and has made an impact on our decision-making.
o Develop a technology plan for online data management, event registration, and social media.
AMEA is anxiously awaiting the ability to use the data management system utilized by NAfME.
The Guidebook app was introduced at our 2013 conference to provide immediate access for our members, as well as opportunities for feedback.
The AMEA Facebook page keeps members up-to-date.
o Offer innovative, engaging, and relevant professional development.
Beginning in January 2013, AMEA recognized members that have achieved certification through the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards at our annual awards presentation.
The Alabama Symphony Orchestra performed at the 2013 and 2014 Conference to showcase the musical ability of the Orchestra and forge connections to professional musicians in the state.
The Governing Board has updated the performance application to provide more detailed selection criteria, while allowing the Division Presidents freedom to choose groups that reflect member needs.
State Superintendent Dr. Tommy Bice served as keynote speaker for the 2014 Conference and voiced his support for music education across the state.
o Plan for the future by updating the strategic plan, officer and committee chair handbook, and bylaws.
A Strategic Planning Committee has been established and is working with NAfME Executive Director Michael Butera to update our severely outdated strategic plan.
Once the strategic plan is complete, the Officer and Committee Chair Handbook will be updated to reflect the changes in the plan.
The AMEA membership has approved bylaw changes that reflect current procedures. These include changing MENC to NAfME, changing the title of the office of treasurer to the office of treasurer/registrar, and changing the office of treasurer/registrar from an elected position to an appointed position.
With budget overages, we have opened an investment account to ensure a strong financial future. Intensify advocacy efforts with a strategic design.
o Develop a list of “asks” and a strategic advocacy plan with innovative ideas through data analysis and a survey.
An Advocacy Committee has been established to develop a strategic advocacy plan. The plan will reflect the needs of our members, which have been collected through the aforementioned survey.
An advocacy video was produced and a dialogue with lawmakers has been established using the collected data.
o Connect with other arts organizations in Alabama to strengthen our advocacy efforts.
AMEA became part of the Alabama Arts Advocacy Coalition, along with other arts education organization in the state. The mission of the AAAC is to raise awareness of and build support for the arts as an essential component of our schools and communities.
The Arts Education Task Force, which will design and present a comprehensive arts education plan to the State Superintendent, Dr. Tommy Bice, has met a few times in an effort to establish a strategy for providing arts education access for all Alabama students.
With the work and dedication of our board members and committee members, we have made tremendous progress over the past few years. I know that Dr. Carl Hancock will continue this trend and lead our association to even greater heights.
Elementary/ General Business: At our January Business meeting the following by-law changes were proposed. Changes are in bold print and underlined. These changes will be voted upon by the membership at the October business meeting.
In between your relaxing days at the lake and trips to the beach there are many opportunities for you to grow professionally this summer.
Greetings
I hope that you are enjoying these beautiful spring days and are creating beautiful music with your students every day. As I sit and write this letter I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of my second child who is set to enter the world any day now. While I am focused on the arrival of a new baby girl, most of you are excited about the arrival of summer vacation! However, I ask you to not focus on summer vacation yet. Instead focus on why music education is important and how lucky you are to share that with children every day. Continue to give your best every day in the classroom. So pull out that stretchy band or parachute and dance around the room with your students to the music!!
Article V, Section 1
State officers of the Elementary/General Division shall consist of President, President Elect, Vice President, Past President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Hospitality Chairman. Following the election, these officers shall hold office for a term of two years beginning on May 1.
Article V, Section 4
District Chairs shall be appointed by the President of the Division in alternate years from the election of the Executive Committee. District Co-Chairs shall be recommended by the District Chair and appointed by the Executive Committee. Following the appointment, these chairs shall hold office for a term of two years beginning on May 1.
June 2-13 Orff Level Two Certification Training - Samford University
June 16-20 AOSA Funtastic AOSA Music Camp at Universalist Church of Birmingham. Contact Tommy Thompson if you would like to volunteer to help or teach thompsonlt@mac.com
July 21-August 1 Kodaly Level 1
Certification - University of Montevallo
October 3 AMEA Elementary Music Festival- Samford University
October 4 AMEA/ AOSA Fall Workshop- more details to come in the Fall Newsletter
Sponsored by
As I reflect on the 2014 All-State Orchestra Festival, the twist and turns the weather threw our way did not keep us from wonderful music making in the Moody Hall at University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Thank you to Dr. Blake Richardson for conducting the Festival Orchestra and thank you to Dr. Anne Witt for leading the Consort String Orchestra. Thank you to the parents for trusting that the weather would clear in time to begin on Thursday. Thank you to the teachers across the state of Alabama for keeping lines of communication open with the students and parents about the status of the festival. Thank you most of all for the talented students, who continue to amaze me every year on their dedication to work diligently during rehearsals and perform at an exceedingly high level!
I want to thank the district chairs and officers for their commitment and hard work during my term as President of the Alabama Orchestra Association. The officers are Sarah Schrader (VicePresident/President-Elect), Felicia Sarubin (Secretary), Daniel Jamieson (Treasurer), Clay McKinney (Past-President) and Julie Hornstein (Executive Director). The nine district representatives are Jacob Frank and Daniel Jamieson (Northern), Sarah Dennis and Zakaria Enikeev (Central), Roland Lister (East Central), Matthew
Grant (West Central), Felicia Sarubin (Southwest), Chin-Mei Li (South Central), and Eugene Conner (Southeast). Thank you chairs for the essential role you play in the audition process for the festival.
I am so thankful for my time as President of the Alabama Orchestra Association. Collaborating with the wonderful teachers and educators across the state and getting to know the excellent students in the area have made this a rewarding experience for me. Sarah Schrader will be taking over the presidency starting in June due to my move to the state of Pennsylvania for a teaching position at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA. Sarah Schrader’s love for the students in Alabama and string education will bring AOA to new heights. She is already hard at work planning the 2015 All-State Festival.
The festival will be held at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa on February 1215, 2015. Please encourage your string, wind, brass and percussion students to audition for next year’s festival. We are fortunate to bring nationally-recognized conductors and educators to work with our fine students. The conductors for the 2015 All-State festival will be Daniel Black (Assistant Conductor of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra), Sinfonia will be led by Dr. Robert Gardner (Penn State
University), and Dr. James Mick (Ithaca College), who did not quite make it this past year, will conduct the Consort String Orchestra. Audition excerpts will be available in August from our website: http://www.alabamaorchestraassociation.org
Calendar of events:
Audition Excerpts Posted online: August 11, 2014
Audition Registration Deadline: September 30, 2014
Composition Contest Deadline: October 1, 2014
Deadline for All-State Scholarship Applications: October 15, 2014
Audition Results Posted: November 17, 2014
Scenes from AOA All-State
Well here I sit writing this last article for the Ala Breve as President of the Alabama Vocal Association. As I reflect back on the last two years, I know now what an awesome responsibility of leadership it has been during my tenure. I think of the Summer Board meetings, Fall Workshops, All-State Show Choir auditions, All-State Choral Festival auditions, AMEA Conference, All-State Show Choir, AMEA Honor Choir, Fall and Spring Solo/Ensemble assessments, the All-State Festival, securing Clinicians, finding Presenters, etc., etc. I know I cannot have had success with any of this without you the teachers who work tirelessly in the classroom every day. Without you, none of these events would even be possible. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I also realize that without the help of the AVA Board and the Executive Board that none
of this could happen. Without your dedication and willingness to serve the AVA and your fellow colleagues my position would be pointless. Thank you all so very much. I have grown with you over the past two years. Many of you I have known a very long time and some of you I have gotten to know through this journey. Oh my, enough of the mushy stuff.
Wasn’t All-State a great event? I was overwhelmed by the talent of our clinicians and our students to make such incredible music in a few short days. I thought that the concerts were some of the best that we have had. Now all of the performance assessments are complete and we are finishing our spring concerts. We have only Baccalaureate and Graduation and then another year of music education will be complete. Did we do all we could have done to instill the art of choral music in our students? Did we strive to give them the tools that they can use for the rest of their lives? Did we leave them with the passion to pursue their goals and strive to be the best that they can in everything they do? I know we did. Hopefully some of those
students will follow in our footsteps and stand on our shoulders as they reach to achieve their ambitions.
Moving on… If you plan on submitting for a performance slot or to present a session at AMEA, the deadline is June 1, 2014. If you would like to submit for a lobby performance, then that deadline is November 1, 2014. AMEA will again be held at the Renaissance in Montgomery, January 22-24, 2015. Also, the deadline for submitting award nominations is June 15, 2014. These awards include, Outstanding Administrator, Outstanding Music Educator, and the Distinguished Service award. You can find all of this information on the Alabama Music Educators Association website.
AVA Summer Board will be held June 14 in Prattville. If you have any issues that need to be addressed, please put them in writing and submit them to your District Chair. Fall Workshop will be at the University of Alabama on September 5th, 2014 ONLY. ASSC auditions are October 9-11, 2014. All-State auditions will begin on November 13, 2014 and conclude November 22.
Please undergird and support Dr. Carl Davis as your new AVA President. He will do an outstanding job. I look forward to serving under you Carl.
I hope that your school year ends on a good note, no pun intended, and that you have a fun and relaxing summer as you rejuvenate for another year of choral music.
Thank you again for allowing me to serve as your president. I have enjoyed working with and for all of you and your students. God Bless.
Jody Powell
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Lori Ardovino - President, Higher Education Division
How do we help our students to become the musician he or she wants to be? We do it by simply allowing them to do it. How do we do this? We help them to formulate a clearly defined goal. For a musician, the goal will be partially be in the form of an aural image. When striving to teach tone, what approach do you use?
1.Formulate specific muscle placement or have the student strive for the desired sound by using whatever is natural, OR
2.Should the student repeatedly listen to a piece until the sound of it is permanently established in the ear?
Both are true. Individual personalities will also factor into this, but learning is most likely to succeed when both approaches are utilized. Having said this, sometimes the natural or intuitive part of musical learning often is overlooked. The more advanced students many times try too hard and overanalyze their playing without realizing it.
I find myself sometimes telling a student during a practice session things like: “Fill up with air, use the diaphragm, support”, and “head up, good posture, relax the jaw, top lip firm, corners in”, and so on. They may sound like wonderful suggestions, but this persistence may have negative effects. Too many instructions can easily turn into distractions, inhibiting, rather than endorsing. Yes, there is a “correct” way to play and instrument or to sing opposed to an “incorrect” way. The problem is, too music attention to particulars can be distracting to both the student and the teacher. I find that many times when working with a new student, I want to “fix” everything at the same time, and this is counterproductive. The student cannot concentrate on one thing and be
expected to correct the other. I say these things because I am guilty of trying to fix “too much too soon”. The final goal is to help the student to be the best they can be. Okay, so how do we approach it?
Focus on sound – the primary area that needs attention. This may take years to develop the desired sound. Attaining an accurate aural image of the tone quality desired is what everyone seeks, and it will come in time.
Listen to recordings and attend live performances – attentive listening will help the ear grasp the desired tone and retain it.
Practice sight singing – this is a valuable skill that is introduced during the freshman year. We use this so we can hear the music in our ears before we play it. If the student cannot aural perceive the pitches on the page, how can they form a clear aural image? Tone does not happen without pitch.
Go easy on verbal instructions – A way out of this dilemma is to translate verbal commands to aural images. The student will relax more instead of having that constant reminder of the teacher’s instruction.
Remember the good moments – When the student has that moment when everything is right, tell them to remember that feeling. If you can remember what it felt like to get the sound you’ve been seeking, the muscles will hopefully find a way to reproduce that same sound and feeling. Don’t try to think or describe, remember.
The most important factor in any undertaking is to have a clearly defined goal. We are here to help, but how it is achieved is totally up to the student.
If you desire a university that prepares you to make a difference in today’s culture, UMobile is for you!
The course of study is music - the four-year journey is the real education! To schedule an appointment to audition: cpaauditions@umobile.edu or call
As I write this after our 2014 All-State Festival last week, in reflection I am very thankful to be associated with an organization dedicated to the continued success of our students. After all, this has to be the primary purpose of doing what we do. I’m sure that all of you feel the same way that I feel. We are all blessed to have the opportunity to work with the BEST students in our school and community!!!
While I’m thankful for all of the outstanding band students that we have throughout the State of Alabama that are to be commended for a great performance this past Saturday, we were blessed to have tremendous clinicians willing to work with our students as well. Dr. Linda Moorhouse (Red Band), Samuel Hazo (White Band), Dr. Mark Walker (Blue Band), and Linda Gammon (Middle School Band) did a remarkable job rehearsing our students as they prepared for the culminating concert. Our band hosts are also to be commended for going above and beyond in assisting
our clinicians with anything they need: James Ed Champion, Damon McAllister, Heather Henson, and Connie Hammond.
Thanks so much to the directors in District I that provided percussion equipment (and there were several special requests regarding percussion needs from our clinicians this year). A very special thanks to Keith Anderson for coordinating all percussion needs, and thanks to all of those directors that managed to get everything moved to the Von Braun Center for rehearsals, in addition to moving everything to the arena for the Saturday Concert. Directors and their respective schools providing percussion equipment included: Keith Anderson and Stuart Tankesley (James Clemens HS); David Spencer (Huntsville HS); Jennifer Ragsdale, Adam Bernick, and Any Kruspe (Randolph School), and Robbie Stout (Decatur HS).
We were fortunate to have the use of First Baptist Church in Huntsville for our chair placement auditions. The staff and
volunteers at FBC –Huntsville were incredibly gracious and accommodating to our directors and students for the past two years, and we owe a very special thanks to Emily Parker for coordinating this for us.
FBC-Huntsville also provided an outstanding venue for our host night concert this year, which was provided by the UAH Wind Ensemble (conducted by Dr. David Ragsdale) and the U.S. Army Materiel Command Band (conducted by CW4 Jessie Pascua). Those in attendance (and it was a packed house) were treated to a TREMENDOUS concert!!! Dr. Ragsdale and the music faculty at UAH are also to be commended for hosting the state solo festival again this year. If you’ve never attended this event, you should try to make arrangements to be in attendance for the finals performance next year!!!
ABA All-State Red Band First Chair Players
Piccolo - Sabrina Cline, Grissom HS
Flute - Rebecca Percy, Hewitt-Trussville HS
Oboe - Lian Remley, Shades Valley HS
Bassoon - Presley Ready, Spanish Fort HS
Eb Soprano Clarinet - Grace Shim, Hillcrest HS
Clarinet - Matthew Belser, Ala. School of Fine Arts
Alto Clarinet - Rachel Garcia, Faith Academy
Bass Clarinet - Jordan McCarver, Pelham HS
Contra Bass Clarinet - John Trudell, Sparkman HS
Alto Saxophone - Gus Arnold, Huntsville HS
Tenor Saxophone - Joey Crittenden, Homewood HS
Baritone Saxophone - Patrick Morrison, Sparkman HS
Trumpet - Justin Way - St. Paul’s Episcopal
French Horn - Matthew Meadows, Walker HS
Trombone - Cory Cheung, Hoover HS
Euphonium - Todd Bosarge, Fairhope HS
Tuba - Ben Cooper, Austin High School
String Bass - Katherine Reardon, Bob Jones HS
Percussion - Jacob Lipham, Daphne HS
There are also so many others to thank, including everyone on the ABA Board…especially our district chairs and vice-chairs. They are truly the workhorses of ABA, and our organization could not function without all of the hard work they provided throughout the year. A very special thanks to those transitioning off the board (is that a collective sigh of relief I hear?:-): District II – David McDaniel; Dennis Carroll – District IV; and Lori Hart – District VIII.
Honestly, I never realized exactly what was involved in the administration of Audition Manager until I moved into an executive board position a few years ago. Like most of you most likely, I just assumed that the district chairs reported results and Audition Manger took care of everything else. I can assure you that this is NOT the case!!! Doug Farris has taken on this responsibility since we started using Audition Manager several years ago…and has never asked for anything (other than following the registration guidelines that must be utilized:-). I personally owe Doug a major debt of gratitude for all of his hard work. The
next time you see him, please show your appreciation as well.
David Raney is also to be commended for all of his work as we transition to our new “all-in-one” website regarding contact information and event registration at www.abafest.com. You can expect other features to be located here for the 2014-15 school year. David graciously agreed to be our liaison between ABA and Dorian Business Systems, who is building the website for us. I know nothing at all about writing code, but I’m glad that we have someone on board that does, who is also one of us and understands how we need this process to function to better serve our directors.
For the next two years (2015 and 2016) we will return to Mobile as they host our allstate festival. The board has proposals on the table for 2017 and 2018 from Montgomery and Huntsville. We will be making a site visit to Montgomery in June and the ABA Board will make a final decision at our Summer Convention.
hopefully you’re making plans to attend this year. This event is very laid back, and gives directors an opportunity to earn some professional development credit at an outstanding venue. The ABA Board and the music selection committee will meet on Tuesday, June 24th, and the general membership will gather on Wednesday, June 25th and Thursday, June 26th. I haven’t finalized the schedule yet, but I’ve had some outstanding clinic proposals, so I know you’ll want to be there. I’m sure that some of you will appreciate an opportunity to enjoy some beach time and play a little golf as well!!! The registration form is on the front page of the ABA website, as well as information regarding the convention hotel, which is the Hampton Inn and Suites in Orange Beach again this year. Don’t forget, if you get your registration postmarked to Harry McAfee by May 30th there is a $20.00 discount…so send it in now!!!
If you ever have a question or concern, please feel free to contact me at courson.rusty@lee.k12.al.us, or call my cell at (706) 289-4721.
1st Place - Gus Arnold, Huntsville HS
2nd Place - Jessica Elder, Spanish Fort HS
3rd Place - Presley Ready, Spanish Fort HS
4th Place - Ben Toves, Hewitt-Trussville HS
5th Place - Reese Williams - Mountain Brook HS
6th Place - Noah Schatzline, Hillcrest HS
7th Place - Jacob Lipham, Daphne HS
A mentor is defined as “an experienced and trusted adviser”. We all need guidance, but this is especially important in the early years of a teaching career, where correct decisions can set the course for success. I thought that it might be interesting to survey a few successful band directors to see who their mentors were during their first year of teaching. I had some very interesting responses and have made these into two columns: Part Two will appear in the next edition of Ala Breve.
Chuck Eady is currently the band director at Pleasant Grove High School and began and built the outstanding band program at Briarwood Christian School. He has also served in many leadership roles in the Alabama Bandmasters Association, including a term as President. Chuck has helped many young band directors, but enjoyed talking for a minute with me about the help he received in his first year of teaching. “I began my career in Memphis, Tennessee, moving there after completing my degree at Florida State. When my wife and I first arrived, I did not have a teaching job but quickly found one starting a band from the ground up at Evangelical Christian School. I knew I was going to need help and advice, so I went for a visit to Art Theil and Sidney
one of the top local junior high directors, and George Pokorski, who taught over the bridge in Marion, Arkansas and also performed in the Memphis Symphony. These two gentlemen were not that much older than me, but had already developed reputations as outstanding teachers. They listened, gave counsel, showed me the ropes around the area, and helped me network with the other directors in the West Tennessee Band and Orchestra Association. It was hard work building a successful program at ECS, but the help of David and George kept me on the right path, especially at the crucial time at the beginning. After ten years in Memphis, I was recruited to come to Birmingham to start the program at Briarwood. I was much more seasoned teacher by that time, but the first thing I did was search out an older teacher to mentor me. In my estimation, you never outgrow the need!”
all over, but better! I could actually see the theoretical aspects of what I had been taught in my classes being put into practice in an effective manner. I think a very important skill I learned from Mr. Jordan was how to communicate information to student in a very efficient, yet understandable manner. This helped keep a good flow going to the rehearsal. He was also a good communicator with parents and others. After a couple years, Bob left Canton and went to be on the faculty of the University of Mississippi. I stayed at Canton as the head director, but was so fortunate to return to the University later as a student and could resume my relationship with my mentor. I am so lucky that we have been friends to this day”.
McKay at Memphis State University to see whom they might recommend to help guide through my first years establishing this program. They led me to David Ryan,
Dr. James K. Simpson has one of the most distinguished records of achievement of any music educator in this state. He was the Director of Bands at the University of North Alabama (then Florence State Teachers College) and followed that with a lengthy stint as department chair at the same institution. Dr. Simpson was always a leader in the Alabama Bandmasters Association and the Alabama Music Educators Association, and earned a coveted spot in the Hall of Fame of both groups. Many of us don’t realize that he started his career as a young band director in Mississippi. When I asked Dr. Simpson about his first mentor, he did not hesitate for a moment in coming up with the name. “I was very fortunate to have been an assistant to Bob Jordan at Canton High School early in my career. I had taught my first year at Union, Mississippi and was returning from my service commitment when Mr. Jordan hired me. The experience was unreal….it was like going to school
Who are the mentors that have meant the most to you? Stay tuned for more mentor memories, and feel free to send me your story.
Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmaster Fraternity is committed to developing excellence in school bands in Alabama and their instruction.
Please email pemin@mac.com with comments and suggestions for this column.
The year 1946 witnessed the beginning of a musical phenomenon which would enrich the lives of hundreds of students at Wetumpka and Elmore County High School (Eclectic), for the next twenty-six years.
George Truman Welch, at the age of twenty-seven, returned to Wetumpka, Alabama, from World War II, where most of his service had been spent as leader of the 13th Air Force Show Band in the Pacific. Mr. Welch was asked by a school board member about the possibility of starting a school band in Elmore County. He accepted the challenge and in April 1946, seven Wetumpka students met to begin their music instruction. Soon they were joined by students from Eclectic and the foundation for future musical greatness was laid. The Elmore County Band had become a reality, under the direction of Mr. Truman Welch.
In the years of Mr. Welch’s directorship, the Elmore County Band consistently received superior ratings at Alabama high school state competitions. Also, the band was selected to perform in events at Chicago, New York City, Virginia Beach, Philadelphia, Jekyll Island and numerous other locations. Perhaps the band’s biggest and brightest moment was in 1965 when it became the first band from Alabama to perform in concert at the Mid-west National Band Clinic in Chicago, Illinois, which is considered by many to be the highest honor for high school bands in the United States. During the concert the band was given three standing ovations, and the students from two small Alabama towns had solidified their position as members of one of the top high school bands in America.
In addition to Mr. Welch’s band directing responsibilities, he played multiple woodwind instruments professionally for many years in symphony orchestras and dance bands. He partnered in originating and organizing the studio lab band movement. Also, Mr. Welch was selected and served as a member of the Montgomery Symphony Board of
Directors and was the director of the Capitol Sounds Concert Band at Montgomery, Alabama.
In 1972, Mr. Welch retired from Elmore County Band and began a six year tenure as woodwind instructor at Troy State University. In 1980, he was elected to the office of Mayor of his hometown, Wetumpka. Among Mr. Welch’s numerous honors was his selection for membership in the Alabama Bandmasters Hall of Fame and his selection for the inaugural class of the Alabama Music Educators Hall of fame in 2008. Mr. Welch served with distinction as president of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and of the Phi Beta Mu Honorary Band Fraternity. In addition, he served as a Yamaha Instrument Company flute clinician for the Southeastern United States.
and motivational skills of Mr. Truman Welch. He was a remarkable man whose life circumstances and personal qualities uniquely equipped him to achieve the impossible with a group of students from two small Alabama towns.
In March 2014, at the age of ninety-four, George Truman Welch passed away. For the hundreds of members who played in the Elmore County Band, Mr. Welch was a life-changer and the “Wind Beneath My Wings.”
Submitted by Dr. Edd Jones, Professor Emeritus, University of North Alabama Dr. Jones is a former member of the Elmore County Band under the direction of Mr. Welch (1947-1955). He served as his assistant director for seven years (1963-1970).
Mr. Truman Welch was a taskmaster who believed in maximum effort, strict discipline, no excuses and pride in accomplishment. The high caliber of performance that he demanded was exceeded only by the stringent standards of behavior and attitude that he rigidly enforced. The “Welch philosophy” is still indelibly etched in the hearts and minds of each alumnus of the “Big Blue,” as it was fondly referred to in latter years.
The success and fame that the Elmore County Band obtained during his twentysix years is a testament to the leadership
AMEA recently launched an Industry/Institutional membership drive and would like to express appreciation to the following partners who have already joined AMEA in our efforts to promote music education in Alabama. Please support these industry/institutional members who support you as music educators!
Arts Music Shop, Inc. 3030 East Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36116 www.artsmusicshop.com
Gadsden Music Company
P.O. Box 132 Gadsden, AL 35902 www.gadsdenmusic.com
Marchmaster
P.O. Box 73379 Newnan, GA 30271 www.marchmaster.com
AWB Apparel 206 Potomac Ct. Woodstock, GA 30188 www.awbapparel.com
Group Travel Network 410 N. Dillard St Suite 104 Winter Garden, FL 34787 www.grouptravelnetwork.com
Mouchette Enterprises, Inc. P.O. Box 394 Northport, AL 35426
Eastman Music Company 2158 Pomona Blvd. Pomona, CA 91768 www.eastmanmusiccompany.com
Macie Publishing Company 10 Astro Place Rockaway, NJ 07866 www.maciepublishing.com
Musical Destinations, Inc. P.O. Box 771060 Winter Garden, FL 34777 www.musicaldestinations.com
Musical Destinations Inc.
QuaverMusic.com 1706 Grand Ave. Nashville, TN 37212 www.quavermusic.com
Sunburst Indian River Citrus 49600 Meadow Brook Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242 www.sunburstplus.com
Southern Performances 115 Cottage Ave. Enterprise, AL 36330 www.southernperformances.com
Southern Star Music Festivals 635 Sunset Drive Norcross, GA 30071 www.starmusicfestivals.com
University of South Alabama LPAC 1072, 5751 USA Drive, S Mobile, AL 36688 www.southalabama.edu/music
Susan Smith
www.jsu.edu/music
CHORAL
A Cappella Choir
Chamber Singers
Civic Chorale
Encore! Show Choir
Gospel Choir
INSTRUMENTAL
Chamber Winds
Wind Ensemble
Symphonic Band
Marching Southerners
Hardcorps Pep Band
Orchestra
JAZZ
Jazz I
Jazz II
Jazz III
Combos
PERCUSSION
Percussion Ensemble
Mallet Ensemble
Steel Band
CHAMBER MUSIC
Brass Quintets
Trumpet Choir
Trombone Choir
Horn Choir
Brass Choir
Flute Quartets
Flute Ensemble
Clarinet Choir
Saxophone Quartet
“Q” New Music Ensemble
OPERA
Jacksonville Opera Theatre
For a complete list of degrees and concentrations please visit: www.jsu.edu/music
/jacksonvillestateuniversity
Congratulations! Susan Smith was elected AMEA President-Elect and Carla Gallahan was re-elected AMEA Recording Secretary
(as of June 1, 2014)
President - Carl Hancock
President-Elect - Susan Smith
Immediate Past President - Sara Womack
Recording Secretary - Carla Gallahan
ABA President - Rusty Courson
AOA President - Sarah Schrader
AVA President - Carl Davis
Collegiate President - Stacy Daniels
Collegiate Advisor - Ted Hoffman
Elem/Gen President - Karla Hodges
HED President - James Zingara
Industry Representative - Becky Lightfoot
Executive Director/Editor - Garry Taylor (ex officio) Treasurer/Registrar - Pat Stegall (ex officio)
Schools that have mus aduationrategr cen ams (90.2 per progr
ams have ogr ic pr esthanthosewithoutmusic cent). ed to 72.9 per t compar
Schools that have music programs have significantly higher graduation rates than those without music programs (90.2 percent compared to 72.9 percent).
age, students in Onaver on the ve themathsectionofth no music participation
ed57 music scor 1 on rbal and 4 eSATthandidstudentswith AT .
On average, students in music performance scored 57 points higher on the verbal and 41 points higher on the math section of the SAT than did students with no music participation.
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Communicate Effectively
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Parents wield extraordinary influence over local principals, school boards, and other decision makers. Encourage them to become involved in the advocacy process and make a significant difference in the quality of their child’s music education program.
Visit www.nafme.org for more Parent Resources.
AMEA In-Service Conference/All-State Jazz Band
January 23-25, 2014 - Renaissance Montgomery Hotel at the Convention Center
All-State Solo Festival
April 9, 2014 - UAH, Huntsville
District I
District Fall Meeting
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPAI State MPA II
Solo & Ensemble Festival
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District II
District Fall Meeting
All-State Band Auditions
State MPA
District Honor Band
Solo & Ensemble Festival
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District III
District Fall Meeting
All-State Band Auditions District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District IV
District Fall Meeting
All-State Band Auditions
State MPA (Middle School)
State MPA (High School)
District Honor Band
Solo & Ensemble Festival
Solo & Ensemble Festival District Spring Meeting
District V
District Fall Meeting
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band
District Spring Meeting State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District VI
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District Spring Meeting
District VII
District Fall Meeting
All-State Band Auditions State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District Spring Meeting
District VIII
District Fall Meeting
All-State Band Auditions State MPA
District Honor Band
Solo & Ensemble Festival
Solo & Ensemble Festival
All-State Band Festival
April 10-12, 2014 - Von Braun Center, Huntsville
Summer In-Service Conference
June 24-26, 2014 - Hampton Inn and Suites, Orange Beach
August 26..............................................UAH Banquet Hall
January 31 & February 1...............................Sparkman 9th
February 14-15...............................Bob Jones High School
February 27-28................................................Hartselle HS
March 13-14..........................Madison, James Clemens HS
April 5..........................................................................TBA
May 3...........................................................................TBA
August 20.................................................Gadsden City HS
January 18.......................................Southside High School
February 26-28.........................................Gadsden City HS
March 14--15.................................Albertville High School
April 21...............................................Oxford High School
May 4......................................................Arab High School
August 17..........................................................Smith Lake
January 18...............................Muscle Shoals High School
February 21-22............................Hanceville, Wallace State
March 4-6....................................................................UNA
May 3 ..........................................UNA
September 19......................................Hoover High School
January 18...........................................Hoover High School
March 4-6...........................Hewitt-Trussville High School
March 11-13.................................Homewood High School
April 4-5.......................................Homewood High School
April 22........................................Homewood High School
May 3.............................................Bumpus Middle School
May 19................................................Hoover High School
August 26.........................................................Duncanville
February 1.......................................Tuscaloosa County HS
February 21-22........................University of West Alabama
February 22.............................University of West Alabama
February 25 & 26.............................University of Alabama
March 20.........................................................Prattville HS
April 22...........................................Tuscaloosa County HS
January 18.......................................Opelika Middle School
February 21-22..............................Central HS, Phenix City
March 11-12.......................Benjamin Russell High School
April 5................................................. Trinity Presbyterian
May 3.............................................Auburn Jr. High School
May 12.........................................................................TBA
August 26....................................Spanish Fort High School
January 18.......................................Davidson High School
March 4-6..............................................Baker High School
April 26..................................................Mobile Site - TBA
May 3...................................................Baldwin Site - TBA
May 5.................................................................Daphne HS
August 19.....................................................................TBA
January 18.....................................Troy Elementary School
March 4-6.......................................Enterprise High School
March 14-15...................................Enterprise High School
May 3.....................................................Excel High School
May 3............................................Troy Elementary School
Fall Workshop - September 6-7, 2013 - University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
All-State Show Choir Auditions - October 10-12, 2013 - UAB, Birmingham
All-State Show Choir and AMEA Honor Choir at AMEA Conference - January 23-25, 2014 - Renaissance Montgomery Hotel at the Conference Center
All-State Auditions (You may register at any site)
October 31 & November 1 - Central Baptist Church, Decatur
November 2 - Florence Middle School, Florence
November 3 & 4 - Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Alexandria
November 5 & 6 - Northport Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa
November 7 - St. James School, Montgomery
November 8 - Springhill Baptist Church, Mobile
All-State Festival - April 3-5, 2014 - Samford University, Birmingham
District I
Honor Choir Screening
OA, OCS, & Music Ed Scholarship
State Choral Performance Assessment
Solo and Ensemble Festival
District II
District III
District IV
District V
District VI
District VII
Honor Choir Screening
OA, OCS, & Music Ed Scholarship
State Choral Performance Assessment
Solo and Ensemble Festival
Honor Choir Screening
OA, OCS, & Music Ed Scholarship
State Choral Performance Assessment
Solo and Ensemble Festival
Honor Choir Screening
OA, OCS, & Music Ed Scholarship
State Choral Performance AssessmentSpring
Solo and Ensemble Festival
Honor Choir Screening
OA, OCS, & Music Ed Scholarship
State Choral Performance Assessment
Solo and Ensemble Festival
Honor Choir Screening
OA, OCS, & Music Ed Scholarship Music Ed
State Choral Performance Assessment
Solo and Ensemble Festival
Honor Choir Screening
OA, OCS, & Music Ed Scholarship
State Choral Performance AssessmentHonor
Fall Solo & Ensemble Festival Spring Solo & Ensemble Festival
November 14..........................................................................TBA
November 21..........................................................................TBA
March 17.............................................Southside Baptist, Decatur
March 18...............................................................UNA, Florence
March 18...............................................................UNA, Florence
November 14..............................Tuscaloosa County High School
November 21..............................Tuscaloosa County High School
February 20-21.....................................................UA, Tuscaloosa
February 20-21.....................................................UA, Tuscaloosa
November 12................................Bluff Park UMC, Birmingham
November 18................................Bluff Park UMC, Birmingham
February 24, 25 & 26 ...................Bluff Park UMC, Birmingham
February 26 ..................................Bluff Park UMC, Birmingham
November 21...........................................Alexandria High School
November 14...........................................Alexandria High School
March 13...............................Golden Springs Baptist, Alexandria
February 27........................................................JSU, Jacksonville
November 21..........................................................................TBA
November 14..........................................................................TBA
March 3 & 4...........................Columbia High School, Huntsville
April 28 & 29.............................Willowbrook Baptist, Huntsville
November 21.............................................Montgomery Academy
October 30.................................Tallassee High School, Tallassee
March 18.......................................First Baptist Church, Tallassee
March 18.......................................First Baptist Church, Tallassee
November 21....................................St. Paul’s Episcopal, Mobile
December 2.......................................St. Paul’s Episcopal, Mobile
February 20.............................Springhill Baptist Church, Mobile
November 14...........................Springhill Baptist Church, Mobile
February 20.............................Springhill Baptist Church, Mobile
October 4, 2013 Elementary Music Festival, Samford University, Dr. Maribeth Yoder-White
October 5, 2013 Joint AMEA/AOSA Fall Workshop, Samford University, Dr. Maribeth Yoder-White
October 27 - 30, 2013 NAfME National In-Service Conference, Nashville, TN
November 13-16, 2013 AOSA National Professional Conference, Denver, CO
January 23 - 25, 2014 AMEA Conference, Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Convention Center
March 1, 2014 AOSA Spring Workshop with Brian Burnette
January
January
- 25, 2014 AMEA Conference, Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Convention Center
Name of Ensemble __________________________________________________________________________
Current # of Members ___________________________ Age Level of Ensemble ________________________
School _______________________________________ Director _____________________________________
Address ______________________________________ City _________________________ Zip ___________
School Phone __________________________________ Personal Phone ______________________________
Email ____________________________________________________________________________________
Division (please check all that apply):
Conditions:
Submissions must include completed performance application, high quality unedited recording of the ensemble (no more than two years old), programs from recent concerts, biography of the conductor and performing group, picture of the performing group, and two letters of recommendation. (A current photograph of the group and conductor will be requested should the ensemble be selected to perform.
Unedited recordings must include two varied selections of high-quality literature.
Performing groups will be selected using the following guidelines:
Diversity of school demographics, geography, and age level
Quality and variety of music performed on recordings
Conference scheduling and planning
Directors must be current members of NAfME/AMEA and register for the conference.
Directors will be notified by July 31, 2014
Final decisions will rest with the Division Presidents.
Please attach a black and white photograph of the performing group, biography of the group and conductor (100 words or less each), recent concert programs, and two letters of recommendation. Submit to:
Deadline: June 1, 2014
Garry Taylor AMEA1600 Manor Drive NE Cullman, AL 35055
Name ____________________________________________________________________________________
Address _________________________________ City ____________________State ______Zip ___________
Phone __________________________________ Email_____________________________________________
Proposed Session Title _______________________________________________________________________
Session Description _________________________________________________________________________
Division (please check all that apply): _____Band_____Collegiate _____Elem/Gen_____HED _____Orchestra _____Vocal
Conditions:
Session proposals must be submitted by the individual who will be presenting the session as the primary clinician.
All Alabama clinicians who are music educators must be members of NAfME/AMEA and must register for the conference in order to present a session.
AMEA does not pay honoraria or expenses to its members.
Individual requests for particular times cannot be granted. Submission of a proposal assumes acceptance of the scheduled times.
If a session is accepted, the primary clinician will be responsible for informing all other participants of all the specifics relating to the session.
Please attach a black and white photograph and clinician biography (100 words or less), Submit to:
Garry Taylor AMEA
Deadline: June 1, 2014
1600 Manor Drive NE Cullman, AL 35055
Name of Nominee_________________________________________________________
Teaching Field___________________________________________________________
Name of School(s)________________________________________________________
Current Status Active_____ Retired_____ Deceased_____
Number of years spent in teaching, administrating or supporting music education in the state of Alabama_________ Dates___________________________________________
Nominee’s Address________________________________________________________
City__________________________________State_______________Zip____________
Telephone___________________Email_______________________________________
In your letter of recommendation please address the following qualification:
1. Member of AMEA/MENC and/or supporter of music education and/or professional musician.
2. Excellence in teaching or administration
3. Contributions and improvements made in music education.
4. Betterment of our profession through exemplary service or acts.
5. Professional offices, publications, awards, performances.
6. Professional ideals and academic integrity.
7. Age 55 or older.
In addition, three letters of recommendation should be mailed directly to AMEA by July 15, to 1600 Manor Dr. NE, Cullman, AL. These letters may be from any of the following: students, administrators, fellow teachers, community, state or national leaders.
Nominator _______________________________________________________________
City__________________________________State_______________Zip____________
Telephone___________________Email_______________________________________
Please submit this form by July 15 to:
AMEA
1600 Manor Drive NE
Cullman, Alabama 35055
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Awarded to a person “who has clearly given very special service to AMEA or to the goals and purposes of AMEA.” The recipient is “clearly recognizable statewide, and the service for which the award is given represents a long range commitment that, in every way, can be considered extraordinary and distinguished.” The person has given tirelessly and selflessly to the cause of music education in Alabama and this person’s service would be greatly missed. Forms must be received by July 15. The presentation of the award is scheduled for the AMEA Conference in January. Please remove or copy the form below, and mail the completed form and papers to:
AMEA, 1600 Manor Drive NE, Cullman, Alabama 35055
NOMINEE FOR THE BARBARA M. ODOM DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Qualifications:
1. Nominee must have served the cause of music education in Alabama.
2. Nomination must be made by a current member of AMEA.
This nomination should be accompanied by a list of specific actions which have initiated, supported and/or enhanced music education in Alabama.
In addition, three (3) letters of recommendation from school personnel, community leaders and/or parents should be mailed directly to AMEA, 1600 Manor Drive NE, Cullman, Alabama 35055.
DEADLINE: JULY 15
Name of Nominee
Address
Present Position
Nominated by Address
Present Position Phone
AMEA honors outsanding administrators who have shown a special interest and dedication to music education in Alabama. Various individuals have been honored with AMEA’s “Outstanding Administrator” award because members have taken the time and interest to nominate them. This award provides our organization the opportunity to honor those administrators who have shown outstanding support of music education and who give all of us inspiration and direction. It is likely that every member knows of an administrator who is deserving of our recognition.
Forms must be received by July 15. The presentation of the awards is scheduled for the AMEA In-Service Conference in January 2012. Please complete this form and mail to the address below before July 15, 2011.
Garry Taylor, AMEA Executive Director1600 Manor Drive NE Cullman, Alabama 35055
Qualifications:
1. Administrator must have served a minimum of ten (10) cumulative years in any school system(s) and /or collegiate institution(s) in Alabama.
2. Nomination must be made by a current member of AMEA.
This nomination should be accompanied by the following:
1. A list of specific actions which have initiated, and/or enhanced music programs in the system which the nominee administers.
2. Four (4) letters of recommendation from school personnel, community leaders and/or parents.
Name of Nominee____________________________________________________________________________
Address____________________________________________________________________________________
Present Position_____________________________________________________________________________
School System______________________________________________________________________________
Number of cumulative years served as an adminstrator_______________
Nominated by_______________________________________________________________________________
Address ____________________________________________________________________________________
Present Position_____________________________________________________________________________
DEADLINE: JULY 15, 2011
AMEA honors young members that have shown a special dedication to and enthusiasm for music education in Alabama. This award recognizes innovative leaders, who set high standards for our profession and offer inspiration and direction. Nominees should have demonstrated professional and academic growth as music educators, as well as enthusiasm for teaching and love of music.
Forms must be received by July 15. The presentation of awards is scheduled for the AMEA In-Service Conference in January. Please complete this form and mail to the address below by July 15.
Deadline: July 15
Qualifications:
Garry Taylor AMEA
1600 Manor Drive NE Cullman, AL 35055
Educator must be a NAfME/AMEA member.
Educator must have served at least three years, but no more than five years, as a music educator in any school system(s) and or collegiate institution(s) in Alabama
Nomination must be made by an AMEA member or by a school administrator. AMEA board members are ineligible for nomination during their terms of office.
Nominations should be accompanied by the following:
A list of specific actions which have initiated or enhanced music education at the local, state, regional, or national levels.
Four letters of recommendation: one from a fellow music teacher and three others from any appropriate source, including a former student, if applicable.
Name of Nominee __________________________________________________________________________
Address _________________________________ City ____________________State ______Zip ___________
Phone __________________________________ Email_____________________________________________
Present Position ____________________________________________________________________________
How many years has the nominee taught in Alabama (total)? ________________________________________
Nominated by ______________________________________________________________________________
Address _________________________________ City ____________________State ______Zip ___________
Phone __________________________________ Email_____________________________________________
Present Position ____________________________________________________________________________
Starting a Tri-M Music Honor Society chapter will help show the value of your music program to the school. It will also benefit your students by allowing them to:
Build an impressive record for college Grow
1.
2. Visit nafme.org/tri-m to download your chapter activation form or call 1-800-336-3768.
Send in the activation form with your chapter activation fee ($50-$125 based on the size of your school)
Receive a packet from NAfME with a guide to start your chapter – and get going!
1946Yale H. Ellis
1948Walter A. Mason
1950Vernon Skoog
1952John J. Hoover
1954Lamar Triplett
1956Carleton K. Butler
1958Mort Glosser
1960Wilbur Hinton
1962Lacey Powell, Jr.
1964G. Truman Welch
1966Jerry Countryman
1968Floyd C. McClure
1970Jerry Bobo
1972Frances P. Moss
1974George Hammett
1975Frances P. Moss
1976S. J. Allen
1978W. Frank McArthur, Jr.
1980Paul Hall
1982Lacey Powell, Jr.
1984Johnny Jacobs
1986Merilyn Jones
1988Ronald D. Hooten
1990Ken Williams
1992Dianne Johnson
1994James K. Simpson
1996Johnnie Vinson
1998Michael Meeks
2000John McAphee, Jr.
2002Tony Pike
2004Becky Rodgers
2006John Baker
2008Pat Stegall
2010Steve McLendon
2012Sara Womack
2014Carl Hancock
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Here are some simple, time-effective ways principals can assist their school’s music educators:
CreateandFosteranE
ime-effective smusiceducators: onment of Envir
Create and Foster an Environment of Support
Communicate Constructively
Communicate Construc al tively
Principals and school boards have the ability to substantially aid music educators in their quest to enrich children’s minds through music. Fostering a strong music program will help them achieve their goals as a leader in the education community, and, most of all, will aid the growth and development of children in their school.
ds have the to oar ough Fos ds thramprogr leader in the education owthgr en in their school. ildr
AMEA honors its members who have shown a special dedication to music education in Alabama. Various individuals have been honored with AMEA’s “Outstanding Music Educator” award because members have taken the time and interest to nominate them. This award provides our organization the opportunity to honor those who have set high standards for our profession, and who give all of us inspiration and direction. It is likely that every member knows of colleagues or former teachers who have influenced him or her greatly, and who should be honored with our recognition.
Forms must be received by July 15. The presentation of the awards is scheduled for the AMEA In-Service Conference in January 2012. Please complete this form and mail to the address below before July 15, 2011.
Garry Taylor, AMEA Executive Director1600 Manor Drive NE Cullman, Alabama 35055
Qualifications:
1. Educator must have served a minimum of ten (10) cumulative years as a music educator in any school system(s) and/or collegiate institution(s) in Alabama.
2. Nomination must be made by an AMEA member or by a school administrator. AMEA Board members are ineligible for nomination during their terms of office.
This nomination should be accompanied by the following:
1. A list of specific actions which have initiated or enhanced music education at the local level and/or at state, regional or national levels.
2. Four (4) letters of recommendation: one from a fellow music teacher and three others from any appropriate source. (May include one from a former student, if available.)
Name of Nominee____________________________________________________________________________
Address____________________________________________________________________________________
Present Position_____________________________________________________________________________
School System______________________________________________________________________________
Number of cumulative years served as a music educator_______________
Nominated by_______________________________________________________________________________
Address ____________________________________________________________________________________
Present Position_____________________________________________________________________________
DEADLINE: JULY 15, 2011
