T he only choice — Yamaha. Why? We have world-class designers, state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques and are committed to producing the industry’s most consistent, superior-sounding instruments available. These are just three of the many reasons that educators depend on Yamaha. Learn about these instruments and more at yamaha.com/band
Garry Taylor, Editor 1600 Manor Dr. NE Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 636-2754
amea@bellsouth.net
ADVERTISING & COPY DEADLINES
August issue: July 1
October issue: September 1
February issue: January 1
Send Ad Materials to:
Garry Taylor, Advertising Manager 1600 Manor Dr. NE Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 636-2754
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 AMEA or the Editor.
All announcements & submissions are subject to editorial judgement/revision.
The Alabama Music Educators Association is a state unit of 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/AMEA membership 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/AMEA dues.
Subscriptions for non-members is $15.00 per year. Bulk rate postage paid at Dothan, AL.
President
Pat Stegall
Muscle Shoals High School
1900 Avalon Avenue
Muscle Shoals, AL 35661
pstegall@mscs.k12.al.us
(256) 389-2682 School
(256) 389-2689 Fax
(256) 627-4661 Cell
President-Elect
Steve McLendon
Dothan High School
1236 S. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36301
dhstigerband@aol.com
(334) 794-0146 School
Recording Secretary
Carla Gallahan
212 Smith Hall, Troy University
Troy, AL 36082
(334) 670-3502 School
cgallahan@troy.edu
Interim Treasurer
Mary Jo Lakin
1612 2nd Avenue SW #181
Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 590-2276 Cell mlakin@alabamamea.org
President, ABA
Chuck Eady
Pleasant Grove High School
805 7th Ave.
Pleasant Grove, AL 35127
(205) 379-5273 School
(205) 807-4311 Cell
chuckeady@aol.com
President, AOA
Marcy Wilson
P.O. Box 11121
Chattanooga, TN 37401
(423) 637-6500 Cell mwilson@kenyonwilson.com
Past President
John Baker Enterprise High School
500 Watts Avenue
Enterprise, AL 36330
jbaker@enterpriseschools.net
(334) 347-2640 School
(334) 347-3144 Fax
Executive Director
Editor, Ala Breve
Garry Taylor
1600 Manor Dr. NE
Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 636-2754
amea@bellsouth.net
President, CME C
Lindsey Folsom
(256) 347-0891
lfolsom@gmail.com
lfolsom@forum.montevallo.edu
President, Elem/Gen
Sharon McCann August
Liberty Park Elementary School
17051 Liberty Parkway
Birmingham, AL 35242
(205) 402-5400 School
Collegiate ME C Advisor
Carl Hancock University of Alabama
School of Music
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
(205) 348-6335
chancock@bama.ua.edu
(205) 987-5867 Home
(205) 936-3620 Cell sharonaug.@gmail.com
President, AVA Damion Womack
The Montgomery Academy
3240 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL 36106
(334) 272-8210 ext. 261 School Womack.D@montgomery academy.org
President, Higher Education
Dr. Mark Walker
Troy University
Long Hall
Troy, AL 36082
(334) 670-3281
mjwalker@troy.edu
2009-2010 Directory
planned by your Division Officers and promises to be outstanding. There are some superb performing groups and clinicians preparing to perform and instruct you. We will
I woke up at 4:00 o’clock this morning with that song in my head again! “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You”, sung by Frankie Vali and the Four Seasons. It is four weeks from homecoming and I am not sure why it showed up, but I can’t get the tune out of my head once it starts. My wife and I visited New York last April and the very first show we ever saw on Broadway was “Jersey Boys” with that song as one of the featured productions. That trip was enlightening to me. We saw four shows in three days and I consider it one of the best vacations ever. The imagination of the productions and the level of perfection from the performers amazed me. Those actors and musicians were trained somewhere and my guess is they got their start in schools like yours and mine.
Seeing “Jersey Boys” got me thinking again about how it all fits together. Not all of our students go on to be actors and professional musicians, but we teach to a high standard, which I hope will inspire our students to work toward perfection in their chosen field, whatever it happens to be. All I know is that I got chills when the performers were singing that tune and the chills don’t come easily for me. They had achieved it…perfection. It made me proud to be a music teacher, because I knew those performers had been trained by someone who took a sincere interest in developing their skills and instilled in them the desire to work toward the goal of getting it absolutely perfect.
I hope that you will make plans to attend the AMEA Conference in January. We all need to hone our skills, and network with our colleagues. The conference has been
recognize some of our teachers and administrators for their accomplishments and achievements, so plan to be there and share the joyful times.
Times are tough financially in Alabama, and you may have to make an extra effort to be a part of the conference, but it will be worth it. Make sure you invite the music teachers in your district to become a part of AMEA. Together, we can survive these tough times and come out in great shape on the other side of the economic downturn. Sharing a room and travel expenses with a colleague is one way you can help save money. Just make sure you are there, in Tuscaloosa, in January with your eyes and ears ready to experience a conference that is just “Too Good To Be True!”
FOR GRADES 9-12
11-14, 2010
Deadline for nomination forms: November 30, 2009
For more information regarding Festival, please visit our website: www.auburn.edu/auband
I enjoyed the opportunity to meet so many of you at Fall Workshop. There were many new facesthis year. We need more of our new teachers to become involved in our wonderful organization. Our clinicians, Dr. Andre Thomas, Director of Choral Activities at Florida State, and Dr. Lori Hetzel, Associate Director of Choral Activities at The University of Kentucky, enjoyed meeting and talking to all of you. I hope you will be able to use some of the topics discussed in your classroom. I would also like to thank the AVA Governing Board for all of their help and support.
Please make plans to attend AMEA January 21-23, 2010. Our featured
Damion Womack, President, Alabama Vocal Association
clinician will be Dr. Betsy Cook Weber, Professor of Choral Music Education at The University of Houston. Dr. Weber is well known in our field. She has presented workshops across the country. You will enjoy Dr. Weber.
This year we had a total of 11 choral groups submit applications to perform at AMEA! This is great news! Please continue to submit applications and support AMEA. Congratulations to the directors who have been selected to present concerts at AMEA this year: Spanish Fort High School Las Canciones, Kathy Hughes Conductor; Alabama A&M University Concert Choir, Dr. Horace Carney Conductor; R.F Bumpus Middle
School 7th Grade Choir, Sal Rodas Conductor; Hueytown High School Concert Choir, Elizabeth Hearn, Conductor; Auburn University Chamber Choir, Dr. William Powell Conductor, and The University of Alabama Concert Choir, Dr. John Ratledge, Conductor.
As always, I feel that we have one of the most productive vocal organizations in the South. When we work together,anything is possible.
January 21-23, 2010
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
FIRST NAME______________________(for badge) MENC ID#
Please enclose a copy of your card.
Home Address: __________________________________ ____________________ ______ _______
Home Phone: ______________________________ Email: __________________________________
School Name: ______________________________________________________________________ School Address: _________________________________ ____________________ ______ _______
School Phone: ______________________________ Fax: ___________________________________
Division Affiliation: (check all that apply)
Please tell us if you are: _____Clinician _____Conductor of a performing group at the conference
Pre-Registration $185.00 (On-Site Registration $195.00) TOTAL
To pre-register with a credit card go to www.alabamamea.org through January 10, 2010
Important: Forms and payment received after Jan. 10, 2010 will be held at the registration desk for onsite registration. Do not send forms or payment to the above address after Jan. 10, 2010!
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. Mary Jo Lakin, Interim Treasurer and Registrar Email: mlakin@alabamamea.org
AMEA has many exciting opportunities for learning throughout the year. The Fall Workshop, with Festival clinician Sue Mueller,will be held October 3. Please look over the information below and send in your registration form as soon as possible. On October 2, the fourth Elementary Music Festival will be held at the Wright Center of Samford University with Sue Mueller. The Festival will have approximately 300 participants. The AMEA In-Service will be held January 21-23, 2010. The Elementary/General Division welcomes Peter and Alice Amidon to Alabama. They will share their
ideas on teaching traditional dance and singing games to children, as well as literature and storytelling in the elementary classroom. They will also be facilitating an evening community dance for teachers. The Keynote speaker, John Feierabend, will speak on the topic: Endangered Musical Minds. John will also present sessions on Conversational Solfege, a music literacy method for use in general music class. Vestavia Central Elementary School Choir and Jacksonville State University’s Children’s Opera Theatre will be performing. You won’t want to miss the great line-up of
sessions and performances found at this year’s conference!
Our division has a few vacancies in the Board of Directors. Dan Norris, former District 7 Chair, has generously agreed to be our Interim Secretary, taking the place of Karla Hodges as she begins her new position in middle school. This leaves us with a vacancy in District 7, as well as the vacancy in District 1. Please let me know if you are interested.
Here is a gentle reminder for all researchers: If you would like to submit a research abstract for the research poster session that we schedule for AMEA, please do so electronically by November 15th (deadline has been pushed back by two weeks to accommodate busy schedules!)
The AMEA Governing Board met at the University of Alabama, Hotel Capstone on August 15, 2009. The meeting was called to order at 12:00 noon by AMEA President, Pat Stegall. Present at the meeting: Pat Stegall, Garry Taylor, Carla Gallahan, Steve McLendon, Damion Womack, Chuck Eady, Marcy Wilson, Jenney Mandt, Mary Jo Lakin, Carl Hancock, and Sharon August.
The minutes of the June 9, 2009 meeting were read by Recording Secretary, Carla Gallahan. Carl Hancock (Sharon August) moved to accept the minutes as read. Passed.
The financial report was presented and discussed by Garry Taylor. Marcy Wilson (Steve McLendon) moved to accept the financial report as presented. Passed.
Officer, Representatives, and Division Reports were presented and may be viewed online at
Chairman, Research DivisionPlease email your one to two page abstract (as a WORD document, please, with no name or institutional affiliation on it) and a separate contact title page to me.
The session provides an informal way for researchers to give an update on their research. Various stages of completion are acceptable and abstracts from public
www.alabamamea.org
Old Business
The MENC Southern Division Leadership Board Meeting will be held in Atlanta, GA September 13-14, 2009. AMEA will be represented at this meeting by Pat Stegall, Garry Taylor, Steve McLendon and CMENC Vice-President President, Jenney Mandt.
An orientation session for new Division and AMEA Officers was discussed. We will continue to work on consistency in this endeavor and continue discussion at the Leadership Breakfast at the 2010 AMEA Conference.
All officers were reminded to encourage members to submit articles for the Ala Breve.
ew business
Steve McLendon (Chuck Eady) presented a motion for AMEA to provide one night hotel accommodations for another CMENC officer to attend the SDMENC Leadership Symposium in Atlanta, GA September 13, 2009. Passed
The AMEA awards were discussed and voted
school teachers, graduate students, and higher education folks are all equally welcome!!!
My email address is: dorlof@troy.edu. Please identify "research abstract" in the subject line.
See you in January!
upon.
A discussion occurred on the possibility of beginning an Intercollegiate Honor Band and an Intercollegiate Honor Choir to be held as part of the AMEA In-Service Conference. A committee was established to gather information and interest on this and will present a report at the January Governing Board Meeting.
Conference planning and scheduling occurred. All membership are reminded to encourage student participation in FAME, the application is in the Ala Breve and online.
The next meeting of the AMEA Governing Board will be January 20, 2010 at 6:30 pm at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL.
Pat Stegall (Chuck Eady) adjourned the meeting at 2:54 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Carla Gallahan, Recording Secretary
Orlofsky,
I hope that your new school year is off to a great start and that this will be an outstanding year for your programs.
Mark your calendars, and make plans to attend the 2010 AMEA Conference January 21-23 at the University of Alabama. Many hours of planning have been invested into making this a great opportunity for professional development. Congratulations to the bands that have been selected to perform at this year’s conference. Please, make an effort to attend the concerts to show your appreciation for the many hours of hard work these students and directors put forth to present these outstanding performances. Also, many excellent clinics will be offered throughout the conference. I hope that you will find these concerts and clinics inspiring as we continue to grow in our profession.
Our first Music Performance Assessment is just around the corner and will be here
before we know it. Many thanks are extended to the ABA Board of Directors for their tireless efforts to ensure that the MPA will run as smoothly as possible. There are a few important items to remember. The MPA will be held at the District level. Each District Chairman is responsible for collecting registration forms, fees, and securing all adjudicators. Registration deadlines will vary by District; therefore, make sure you receive this information from your District Chairman. Recording and picture contracts will also be managed at the District level. We will post a generic MPA registration form on our web site; however, your District Chairman may elect to use his or her own form because it may contain more detailed information concerning deadlines, recording fees, and picture fees. If you have any questions, please contact your District Chairman.
In this issue, you will find two legislative proposals. These proposals are scheduled for a vote at our Saturday morning business meeting. The only opportunity for discussion will be during the Friday
morning business meeting after they are presented. Please read over these proposals so that you will be aware of the possible changes to the handbook. Please, attend the Saturday meeting to cast your vote.
Finally, I am excited to report that the city of Mobile has been contracted to host the ABA All State Festival in 2011 and 2012. The Riverview Plaza Hotel, the Mobile Convention Center, and the Mobile Civic Center have been secured for our use. The most exciting benefit is that we will not have to leave the site until the Saturday concert. A walkway connects the Riverview to the Convention Center. I will give more detailed information at our Friday morning business session during the AMEA Conference. We owe a large expression of gratitude to Mr. Tony Pike because he has done the bulk of the legwork to make this possible.
As always, if I can be of assistance, please let me know.
Article XII. Funds
Add: Section 3.
The Alabama Bandmasters Association fiscal records will be professionally and independently audited at the conclusion of each fiscal year. A report from this audit will be made available to the ABA membership at the AMEA Conference in January. At the ABA Summer conference the ABA Board of Directors will approve a budget for the following fiscal year.
Rationale: The Alabama Bandmasters Association processes a large amount of money each year. Adequate and effective protections need to be in place to assure judicious allocation of funding.
Add to Article XVI, Section 3
h. MPA procedures will allow directors to enter bands for comments only. Registration fees will remain the same for comments only bands.
Add to Article XVI, Section 4, letter a
Comments only bands will be able to sight-read at the discretion of their director.
Rationale: The current MPA legislative changes do not mention the possibility for a group to participate for comments only. Many smaller programs and larger programs with “second bands” find it educationally vaild to participate in a comments only category.
As the new AMEA Technology Chair, I hope to provide the membership with resources to help incorporate technology use in the music classroom. I direct the Music Technology program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, teach courses in Computer Music and direct the UAB Computer Music Ensemble. Prior to coming to Alabama in 2008, I taught at Transylvania University in Lexington, KY. I am also a former high school and middle school choir director. You can contact me at slpmusic@uab.edu Several exciting things are happening in Alabama related to music technology that I am eager to share with you.
This past January, at the AMEA conference, a group of music educators met and decided to form an Alabama State Chapter of the Technology Institute for Music Educators (TI:ME). This is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to assist music teachers in applying technology to improve teaching and learning in music. The organization was founded in 1995 with the following four goals:
- To codify technology instruction into a cohesive set of standards.
- To create a national certification process recognizing the achievement of in-service music teachers in music technology.
- To create an organization with a network of members with similar interests and needs.
- To create an internet presence (www.ti-me.org), newsletter, and publications that would provide teachers with training in music technology.
Since its founding, the organization has grown to nearly 4,000 members worldwide, with local chapters in 14 states and Singapore. There are currently over 100 TI:ME members living and teaching here in Alabama. In fact, several Alabama teachers have been involved with the
organization on a national level. UAB professor Henry Panion and Auburn professor Kim Walls serve on the organization’s national advisory board and Karen Garret, music specialist at Central Park Elementary School in Birmingham, was named the 2006 National TI:ME Teacher of the Year (go to her website at www.musictechteacher.com to see why).
While access to the TI:ME website and many of its resources is free to any interested music teacher, for only $40, teachers can become TI:ME members and benefit from a wealth of resources and training opportunities. Some of these benefits include:
Eligibility for Level 1 and Level 2 National Technology Certification Discountson TI:ME publications and TI:ME-sponsored events
Networking with music teachers around the country through the TI:ME members electronic discussion group.
Free subscriptions to Electronic Musician and Keyboard Magazine (valued over $85)
Access to the members-only content the TI:ME website including:
A searchable database of lesson plans to help you integrate technology into your teaching.
A searchable database of research in music education technology to assist you in teaching and advocacy.
Articles on using technology in music teaching.
Free tutorials to help you learn music software.
Why a State Chapter?
The existence of astate chapter allows a greater presence for music technology instruction and support in the state through networking, conferences, and encouraging technology presentations at the annual AMEA convention. The leadership of the
state organization is as follows:
President: Scott Phillips, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Vice President: Karen Hickock, Northside Intermediate School, Opelika, AL
Advisory Board:Carrie Cruz, North Highland and Concord Elementary Schools, Hueytown; Kimberly Walls, Auburn University; Henry Panion, University of Alabama at Birmingham; Karen Garrett, Central Park School, Birmingham.
To learn more about the Alabama TI:ME chapter go to www.ti-me.org/AL (caps sensitive).
Alabama TI:ME Fall Conference
In conjunction with the UAB Music Technology Academy, the Alabama TI:ME Chapter will host its first Fall Conference on November 14, 2009. This all-day event will feature workshops on how to incorporate technology in the music classroom, as well as hand-on classes using the latest music technology software and hardware in UAB’s state-ofthe-art lab. Technology expert and music educator Dr. James Frankel will be our special guest speaker and clinician (www.jamesfrankel.com).Whether you are new to music technology and want to learn how to get started, or are an expert and want to share your experiences, we would love to have you join us. Here are the details:
Date: November 14, 2009
Time: 8:30-4:30
Place: UAB Hulsey Music Center
Cost: $25 ($20 for TI:ME members)
Includes: Lunch, t-shirt, door prizes
Earn: Up to 6 PD hours
Register Online: www.ti-me.org/AL (caps sensitive)
As the 2010 Alabama All-State Festival quickly approaches, preparations are right on schedule. The festival is February 1114 at the University of Alabama School of Music in Tuscaloosa, and all events are in the Moody Music Building. Student check-in starts on the afternoon of February 11th. The exact schedule will be sent with music to registered students, and seating auditions will take place early afternoon on Thursday. I encourage all participants to arrive early in order to have plenty of preparation time before the seating auditions. A free public performance will begin at 1 PM on Sunday, February 14th, and families and friends are encouraged to attend. All participating students are expected to attend the entire concert, showing due respect for the performances of all fellow musicians in the festival. The audition excerpts have been posted on the AOA (www.alabamaorchestraassociation.org) website since August 16th, and district chairs have submitted their individual information guides. Please refer to the website for information about auditions in your district. Audition results will be posted by the end of the day on November 16th. AOA will also hold a general meeting on Saturday, February 13th. I hope to see all AOA members at this meeting.
For interested vendors, there are three potential exhibit locations in the Moody Music Building during the Festival. Vendors may set up any time after noon on Thursday, February 11th and remain until the concert is over on Sunday afternoon, February 14th. Vendors are not required to stay the entire festival; however there will be no reduction in fee for reduced usage of the space. Bids will be accepted (beginning at $150) for the prime location, in the lobby of the music building. Vendors set up in the lobby will have the use of three eight-foot tables. The other vendor locations are closer to rehearsal rooms, but less space is available. These locations are $100 each and will be occupied by the first two requestors.
Vendors set up in these locations will have the use of one eight-foot table. The AOA President, Marcy Wilson, must receive all requests for vendor space via email at <mwilson@kenyonwilson.com>. Vendors are a great addition to the Festival each year and are available for instrument repair and other accessories needed during the weekend. More importantly, they help students who are ready to take the steps necessary to purchase instruments. For more information, please visit our website and click on the 2010 festival link. As always the conductors for the festival are extremely talented and are excited about educating our students. Dr. Jeff Reynolds, department chair at University of Alabama at Birmingham, will conduct the Festival Orchestra (FO). The FO will perform the fourth movement of Dvorak’s “Symphony No. 8”, as well as the winning piece from our composition competition. Gary Wilkes of Chattanooga will conduct the String Sinfonietta Orchestra (SSO). The SSO will perform “Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 (unabridged)” by Bach, “Holdberg Suite” by Grieg and “Molly on the Shore” by Grainger. Dr. James Barket of Atlanta will conduct the Consort String Orchestra (CSO). The CSO will perform several wonderful works including an arrangement of “Canon in D” by Pachebel and “Baby Elephant Walk” by Mancini. Every year the AOA All-State Festival music
challenges our students to new musical heights, and this year is no exception. I am confident that our students will rise to this level of musicianship. Please check out the information guide on the following page for important deadlines.
The All-State Festival would not be possible without the help of our wonderful District Chairs. They ensure that auditions are organized and run smoothly not only for the students, but for the parents and judges as well. Their work behind the scenes helps make our festival a major success every year. A big thank you in advance for all you do!! I would be lost without our executive board: Allison Lavender- Vice-President/President Elect, Felicia Sarubin- Secretary, Daniel Jamieson-Treasurer and Julie HornsteinExecutive Director . Your hard work all year long helps our All-State Festival grow year after year.
The 2010 AMEA conference is quickly approaching and I hope to see many AOA members in attendance. On Thursday, January 21st the Florence High School Orchestra will be performing in the Moody Concert hall, so let’s make sure to give our support to this talented group of students. In addition to this performance, we will have sessions by Dr. Anne Witt, Dr. Dan Sweaney, and Dan Hornstein. I know all of these will be extremely informative and useful in our daily teaching. I look forward to seeing everyone there!
Final Date for live auditions for all levels
October 15, 2009
Consult the info guide for your district on the web for specific dates!
All State Financial Aid DeadlineOctober 15, 2009
Videotape District Mailing DeadlineOctober 16, 2009
All State Results PostedNovember 16, 2009
All State Orchestra Acceptance DeadlineDecember 1, 2009
Begin To Contact AlternatesDecember 2, 2009
Begin mailing musicDecember 5, 2009
Audition fee is $20 for first audition, $5 extra for each subsequent audition. Please make all check payable to AOA Registration fee is $55.
Notice: We will begin contacting alternates immediately so be sure to abide by the deadline of December 1st to accept your position in your All State Orchestra.
Reminders:
1. Those wishing to be considered for more than one orchestra will need to audition for BOTH orchestras separately. You will fill out separate audition forms and mail them together to your district chair. If you audition for only one orchestra and are not chosen, you will not be placed in any other orchestra.
2. All Festival events will take place in the UA Moody Music Building.
3. If you decline the invitation to come to All State AFTER mailing your acceptance letter, you will not be allowed an audition the following year. (With the exception of medical emergencies)
4. Check in for Festival Orchestra will be from 12:00 - 2:00 P.M. on February 11, with string seating auditions upon arrival.
5. Check in will be from 2:30-4:30 P.M. for string orchestras with string seating auditions upon arrival.
4. Festival Orchestra will have their first rehearsal Thursday from 4:30-6:00 P.M.
5. Pictures and warm-ups for all orchestras will take place from 9:00-1:00. The Festival Concert will begin at 1:00 P.M. on Sunday February 14 in Moody Concert Hall.
Festival Conductors:
Dr. Jeff Reynolds, department chair at UAB, will conduct the Festival Orchestra (FO). The FO will perform the fourth movement of Dvorak’s “Symphony No. 8”, as well as the winning work from our composition competition. Gary Wilkes of Chattanooga will conduct the String Sinfonietta Orchestra (SSO). The SSO will perform “Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 (unabridged)” by Bach, “Holdberg Suite” by Grieg and “Molly on the Shore” by Grainger. Dr. James Barket of Atlanta will conduct the Consort String Orchestra (CSO). The CSO will perform several wonderful works including an arrangement of “Canon in D” by Pachebel and “Baby Elephant Walk” by Mancini.
Hotel Information:
The hotel for the festival is the Capstone Hotel on the campus of the University of Alabama. This is the same hotel as last year’s All State (though now with a new name). There is a block of rooms reserved for our event. We urge you to book rooms early as there are a limited number of rooms in the block. The cutoff date for the block is January 12. After this date, rooms will not be held at the festival price. Reservation phone number for the block is 1-800-477-2262. The block is under the name “All State Festival Orchestra”.
Participation Requirements:
Students participating in the Alabama All State Orchestra Festival must attend all rehearsals and required activities of the festival. Failure to comply with this rule will result in dismissal from the festival without refund of any fees. If a student us unable to attend all activities of the festival, it is his/her responsibility immediately to notify his/her District Chair so that an alternate may be given that place.
Jeff Reynolds is currently Chairman of the Department and Associate Professor of Music at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Highly acclaimed as a conductor, clinician, adjudicator, speaker, and teacher, Dr. Reynolds has been heralded as “one of America’s most exciting, sensitive, and innovative conductors”. He holds the Bachelor of Music in Voice and Church Music from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, the Master of Music in Conducting from Southwestern Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, and the Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting from the University of Illinois where his dissertation was The Choral Music of Maurice Duruflé (1902-1986).
As Music Director of the International Cathedral Music Festival, singers and instrumentalists from all over the world have performed under his direction in such historic venues as Salisbury Cathedral, Canterbury Cathedral, Southwark Cathedral, St. John’s, Smith Square – London, Christ Church – Oxford, St. Mary’s Church – York, St. Giles Cathedral – Edinburgh, the Domkirche and Schloss Esterhazy – Eisenstadt, St. Etienne-du-Mont – Paris and the Votivekirche and St. Stephan’s Cathedral in Vienna. In addition, he has conducted numerous orchestras including the Arkansas Symphony, Alabama Symphony, Brevard Symphony (Florida), Fort Worth Symphony (Texas), Sarum Chamber Orchestra (England), and members of the London Philharmonic and the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields.
For three years choruses under Dr. Reynolds’ direction were selected as the Chorus-in-Residence for the Seminar fur Klassiche Musik in Eisenstadt, Austria, where Dr. Reynolds served as lecturer on the music of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. Ensembles under his direction have also been featured at state and regional conventions for conductors and music educators.
A native of Chattanooga, Gary Wilkes is an alumnus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. After graduation, he attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and was awarded a Master of Music Diploma in Bassoon Performance. At SMU he studied conducting with James RivesJones, associate conductor with the Dallas Symphony and the Colorado Symphony. Over the past thirty-one years, he has taught both bands and orchestras in Texas and Tennessee. Currently, he is the orchestra teacher at the Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences, where he teaches more than 125 string students in grades 6-12. For the past sixteen years he has been the music director of the Chattanooga Symphony Youth Orchestras and the conductor of the Chattanooga Youth Symphony.
traveling, and spending time with best friend and wife, Robyn.
James Barket has been the Orchestra Director at Webb Bridge Middle School in Alpharetta, GA since August of 2000.The WBMS orchestra program includes five active performing groups, three of whom regularly perform at GMEA LGPE. WBMS groups have performed at the ASTA National Orchestra Competition in Kansas City and at the GMEA In-Service conference. Dr. Barket has also taught at Parker Mathis Elementary and Lowndes Middle School in Lowndes County, GA. He directed the Summer Program of the Valdosta Symphony Youth Orchestra in 1999, and managed the orchestra during the 1999-2000 school year.
From 2000-2004, Dr. Barket was Co-Director (with Jennifer Barket) of the GaASTA/NSOA Orchestra Camp. He also was the coordinator (with Kevin Majeske) of the GMEA District V Elementary Orchestra Clinic from 2003-2005. Dr. Barket served as GMEA State Orchestra Chairperson from 2005-2007.
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he currently serves the music teachers of Tennessee as President of the Tennessee Music Education Association and he is immediate Past-President of the Tennessee chapter of A.S.T.A. He holds membership in the Phi Beta Mu Honorary Band Director’s Fraternity, and was recently honored as one of Tennessee’s outstanding teachers by the Board of the Tennessee Governor’s School of the Arts. He is a bassoonist with the Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra, Director of Music at First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, and during leisure moments, he enjoys cooking,
James Barket holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a Master of Music degree from Yale University, and a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Hartford. He also studied in Vienna Austria at the Hochschule fur Musik as a recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship. From 1994-2000, James Barket was on the faculty at Valdosta State University in Valdosta Georgia. He has performed as Principal Bassist of the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra, Principal Bassist of the Albany Symphony Orchestra, Bassist in the VSU Faculty Jazz Quintet, and Per Service Bassist with the Savannah Symphony Orchestra.James has been married to Jennifer Barket since 1991. Jennifer is a studio cello teacher in the Alpharetta area. Their son Daniel studies piano and cello.
Jeff Reynolds Gary WilkesColleges and universities are encouraged to submit newsworthy material and announcements for publication in Ala Breve
The Music Department at Auburn University offers exciting opportunities for performance and music education majors, as well as for students majoring in other fields who wish to participate in classes and ensembles. The department strives to achieve and sustain excellent standards of performance, creativity, pedagogy, research and scholarship in music.Many of our talented faculty members have achieved national recognition for their accomplishments. We appreciate the opportunity offered here by AMEA to share information with you.
I am delighted to welcome two new faculty members this academic year. Laurelie Gheesling, pianist, will serve as coordinator of accompanying and teach Alexander Technique, as well as accompany a wide variety of recitals and concerts. She holds the Master of Music degree in Accompanying from Florida State University and the Bachelor of Music degree from Mercer University, Atlanta. Formerly, Ms. Gheesling served on the faculties of Louisiana State University and the University of New Orleans.
Benjamin Fairfield joins the Auburn faculty as Instructor of Trumpet. He teaches applied trumpet, coaches brass ensembles, and conducts the Jazz Ensemble. Having completed the Bachelor of Music Education degree at James Madison University and the Master of Music degree at the University of Miami, he is a doctoral candidate in the DMA program at the University of Miami. In the Auburn Department of Music, we are proud to offer an intimate and nurturing atmosphere that provides opportunities for individual attention and regular performance for students. I invite you to read about our distinguished faculty, major performing ensembles, programs of study, and available
scholarships, and assistantships on our website at: www.auburn.edu/music Contact the Department of Music at 334844-4165 if you have questions about our degree programs or offerings.
War Eagle!
From Jacksonville State University...
Dr. Sam Lussier, Director of Jazz Studies. Composer, jazz arranger and trumpet player, Dr. Lussier comes to Jacksonville State University from Florida International University in Miami where he was Director of the Jazz Studies program. As an arranger, Lussier wrote and arranged the Big Band Showcase grand finale segment for the 1989 Ottawa International Jazz Festival and he was chief arranger for the Calgary Stampede Grandstand Show from 1993-1995. Recent commissions include works for Paul Green, the June Taylor Dance Company and New World School of the Arts’ Dance Connection. He has numerous performing and recording credits with major jazz artists in addition to performing with the Florida Philharmonic and Florida Grand Opera. While at FIU he was director of the Arturo Sandoval International Trumpet Competition and Festival. His articles have appeared in IAJE Journal and his major publishers are Alfred Music Publishing and Walrus Music Publishing. Lussier received the undergraduate degree from the University of Ottawa, M. M. from University of Miami and the doctorate from Florida International University.
Dr. Todd Mueller, Visiting Assistant Professor of Percussion. Dr. Mueller joins the faculty at Jacksonville State University this fall, teaching applied percussion, percussion methods and directing one of the percussion ensembles. He is Principal Timpanist for the Ashville (NC) Symphony Orchestra and has performed as percussionist with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Opera, Atlanta Ballet Orchestra and Macon Symphony Orchestra. He has extensive
national experience as a drum set performer including performing at the 2007 Peabody Awards at Rockefeller Center, New York. As well as a busy performance schedule, he is also active as an adjudicator, arranger and composer. Mueller received his undergraduate degree from Florida State University, the M.M and D.M.A. degrees from the University of Georgia. While at UGA he was a teaching assistant in the Musicology Department in addition to doing applied teaching and ensemble directing in the Hodgson School of Music. He was awarded the University of Georgia, Boyd Graduate School, Dissertation Completion Award Prize in 2007 and received the Hodgson School of Music, Director’s Excellence Award in 2005 and in 2008.
Samford University’s School of the Arts will present a rich program of music events—many free of charge— in late fall and early winter. Events will include Samford ensemble and faculty concerts, opera, choral music, Christmas celebrations and musical theater. The Davis Architects Guest Artist Series will include Godwin-Thompson Duo Nov. 10 and pianist Roberto Plano Feb. 12. For complete Samford School of the Arts event listings and ticket information, visit www.samford.edu/arts
Samford welcomed new Associate Professor of Trumpet and Jazz Studies Cameron “Chip” Crotts this fall. Crotts is a Grammy Award-nominated musician who has toured with Boston Brass, Rhythm and Brass, Ray Charles, The Manhattan Transfer and Maynard Ferguson. In addition to serving as a Performing Artist for the Yamaha Corporation, Crotts performs with the Alabama Symphony, Huntsville Symphony, SuperJazz Big Band, the Night Flight Big Band and The Tuscaloosa Horns.
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Calendar
Percussion Ensemble Concert
Nov. 5, 7:30 p.m., Brock Recital Hall
Davis Architects Guest Artist Series presents Godwin-Thompson Duo
Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m., Brock Recital Hall
OperaWorks presents Merry Wives of Windsor by Otto Nicolai
Nov 17, 19, 21, 7:30 p.m., Harrison Theatre
Bells of Buchanan sponsored by Patty McDonald
Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., Brock Recital Hall Hanging of the Green featuring University Chorale and Bells of Buchanan
Dec. 3, 6 p.m., Reid Chapel
Festival of Christmas Music
Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m., Wright Center Concert Hall
Samford Honor Band
Jan. 9, 2:30 p.m., Wright Center Concert Hall
Musical Theatre Ensemble: Blame it on the Movies
blairschoolofmusic atvanderbiltuniversity
Feb. 4, 6 p.m.; Feb. 5–6, 7:30 p.m.; Feb 7, 2:30 p.m., Bolding Studio
Faculty Trumpet Recital: Cameron “Chip” Crotts
Feb. 9, 7:30 p.m., Brock Recital Hall
Davis Architects Guest Artist Series and Morris Piano Competition present Guest Artist Roberto Plano
Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m., Brock Recital Hall
VOCES 8, jointly sponsored by the School of the Arts and the Birmingham Boys Choir
Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m., Reid Chapel
Faculty Recital: Joseph Hopkins, baritone and Michael Patilla, guitar sponsored by Patty McDonald
Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m., Brock Recital Hall
From Troy University...
We are grateful to AMEA for providing this opportunity to share information about music opportunities with our colleagues across our state. In this issue,
our focus is on graduate music education, our first Artist in Residence of the year, and on our Professor of Piano, Dr. HuiTing Yang.
Graduate Studies – An Overview
Our graduate program in music provides specialized, professional education opportunities for advanced music students. Degree programs offer a wide variety of high quality music experiences that can be tailored to meet individual student interests. Graduate music students are able to select from traditional resident courses, summer workshops, visiting artist residencies, and distance learning options.
Graduate Music Degrees
Master of Science in Education
Instrumental Music
Choral Music
(30 of 36 hours required for the degree are in the School of Music)
Post-Secondary Education
Focus in Music Industry
(An18 hour music industry “core” for the degree is in the School of Music)
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• Intensiveprofessionaltrainingwithasuperbliberal artseducation–inacityofhistoricSoutherncharm
• Internationallyrecognizedfacultyanduniquely personalstudent/teacherratio–ahallmarkofthe Blaircommunity
• New,state-of-the-artclassrooms,studios,and performancehalls–anewdimensioninthe learningexperience
Formoreinformation:
DwayneSagen
AssistantDeanofAdmissions
BlairSchoolofMusic
VanderbiltUniversity Nashville,TN37212-3499
PHONE:(615)322-6181
WEB: www.vanderbilt.edu/Blair
E-MAIL: Dwayne.P.Sagen@vanderbilt.edu
AUDITIONDATES2009/10
December5,2009•January29-30,2010
February12-13,2010•February26-27,2010
• Degreeprogramsofferedininstrumentalandvocal performance,composition/theory,andmusical arts–andafive-yearBachelorofMusic/Masterof Educationprogram
• Rankedasoneofthenation’stoptwentyuniversities
Graduate assistantships are available in vocal/choral music education, music industry, and with the university bands. Stipends range from $7000-$8000 plus in- or out-of-state tuition waivers covering full time tuition each semester.
The John M. Long School of Music is “home” to more than 250 undergraduate and graduate music majors and minors. Thirty-three music faculty members are part of a diverse community of educators, composers, conductors, performers, and researchers committed to the personal and professional growth of students.
Additional Information
Graduate Admissions, visit www.troy.edu/graduate.
Graduate Program in Music Education, contact Dr. Mark Walker. Graduate Program in Music Industry, contact Professor Robert W. Smith.
Artist in Residence Series
The first Artist in Residence of the year will be Bob Bullock, music producer and engineer from Nashville. Mr. Bullock has been a full time producer and engineer for the past 35 years. He has earned 5 Grammy Awards and more than 50 Gold and Platinum Awards (see www.bobbullock.net). Mr. Bullock will be in residence Oct. 6-8. Contact Robert W. Smith for additional information.
The John M. Long School of Music has just completed the first phase of a multi-million dollar renovation. New choir, expanded band, and new library facilities are scheduled for construction beginning in January 2010.
In this issue, we are pleased to spotlight our Professor of Piano/Piano Accompanist Dr. Hui-Ting Yang. As an active performer, Dr. Yang gave the world premiere of Clifton Callender’s Point and Line to Plane for piano solo, composed for her as part of the Festival of New Music at The Florida State University. She has also performed this selection at national conferences of the College Music Society and Society of Composers, Inc. Her recording of this work has been published in the online journal Musical Perspectives. Her performance of Ladislav Kubík’s Portrait for piano and two percussionists at “The Days of Contemporary Music” festival in Prague was broadcast on Czech Radio, and a recording of the performance will be released by Arco Diva in 2010. With Emily Hanna Crane, she has recorded Ju-Hwan Yu’s Sonata for Violin and Piano and has premiered Metamorphoses II by Clifton Callender, which was commissioned by the Florida State Music Teachers Association in June 2009. In June 2010 she will perform several solo recitals in the Czech Republic, including the music festival in Cesky Krumlov and the concert at the Antonin Dvorak Museum in Prague. Dr. Yang has also presented lecture recitals on the Taiwanese art songs of Hsiao Tyzen at several conferences, including the National Meeting of the Society for Ethnomusicology, the National Conference of the College of Music Society, and the Southern/South Central SuperRegional Conference.
This is an exciting time for our School of Music. We invite you to visit us in person or at music.troy.edu.
February 5–6,
February 12–13, 2010
Open to High School Juniors and Seniors
Thursday, January 21, 2010 9:00 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa Hotel Capstone Ballroom
Applications are due no later than November 1, 2009
Student_______________________________________________________ Grade ____________________
Nominating Teacher __________________________________________ MENC # ______________________
School Name ________________________________________________
`School Address ______________________________________________
Teacher Phone ________________________________ Teacher Email __________________________________
This student participates in (circle all that apply): Band Chorus Orchestra
Mail this application by November 1, 2009 to:
John Baker, AMEA Past President 602 Henderson Street Enterprise, Alabama 36330
Friends and colleagues, as I write this article, the AMEA Executive Board, staff members, ensembles of all sorts, clinicians and speakers are gearing up for the 2010 AMEA Conference. This will be an exciting conference that will no doubt recharge and inspire each of us to continue our important work with our students, research, and other activities.
To that end, I need to communicate a change in this year’s Recital Series. All performers who are scheduled to perform on the Recital Series will have to be current, active members of MENC and AMEA and register for the conference. This is an important step, and will provide performers with all of the benefits of AMEA/MENC membership. Those of us in the Higher Education Division need to continue to encourage our colleagues in the applied and performance areas to join and contribute to AMEA/MENC. If you have any questions
The Ala Breve is seeking submissions of research articles for the Summer 2011 “Special Research” Edition to be published during the summer, 2011. Submissions may consist of quantitative, qualitative, descriptive, historical, philosophical, or any other kind of accepted research conducted by university faculty and/or active practitioners. The deadline for the submission is November 1, 2010.
Submission Guidelines (adapted from the Submission Guidelines of Update: Applications of Research in Music Education)
1. Manuscripts must be research-based.
2. Manuscripts may present a single research study or a review of the literature.
3. Articles should be unique and not
about the Recital Series, please contact Dr. Tim Phillips, Assistant Professor of Clarinet atTroy Universityat tphillips16791@troy.edu.
In addition, our Poster Session will coincide with our mixer, so that we can socialize while perusing current and emerging research by our colleagues from around Alabama and the region. Any questions regarding the poster session can be addressed to Dr. Diane Orlofsky (dorlof@troy.edu).
I am excited to introduce a new feature that will appear in a future edition of the Ala Breve. Soon, authors will have the option to submit articles for a peer-reviewed edition. Located in this edition of the Ala Breve is a nomination form for a peerreview editorial board. This board will consist of three individuals, plus the HED Research Chair and the President of the Higher Education Division. If you would
published elsewhere. In accordance with the Code of Ethics, submitting a manuscript indicates that it has not been published previously and is not currently submitted for publication elsewhere, either in its entirety or in part.
4. Authors should comply with APA ethical standards (www.apa.org/ethics/code2002.html) and institutional and federal regulations in the treatment of human subjects.
5. Quantitative manuscripts must conform to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (5th ed., 2001). Nonquantitative and historical studies may conform to APA style or to The Chicago Manual of Style (15th ed., 2003). Authors may not mix styles within a manuscript.
8. Authors should submit four copies of typed, double-spaced manuscripts, which normally should not exceed 20 pages, along with an abstract of approximately
like to nominate someone for this position, please fill out the form and send it to Dr. Diane Orlofsky, John M. Long School of Music, Troy University, Troy, AL 36082. You may also submit it electronically.
It is our hope that we will be able to publish a “Special Research Edition” of the Ala Breve each summer. This idea was proposed by Dr. Carl Hancock, from the University of Alabama and was enthusiastically agreed to by the Executive Board. If you are interested in submitting an article, please see the “Call for Submissions” below.
I am looking forward to the upcoming AMEA Conference, and I hope you are, as well. Again, please continue to encourage your colleagues in the performance areas to become members of AMEA/MENC and to support the organization that supports them. See you in January!
150 words. Authors should also submit 4 to 6 keywords relating to their article's content. Type size should be no smaller than 12 points (double-spacing should include 28 points total for a line of text and the following line). Figures and drawings should be camera-ready.
9. To preserve the author's anonymity in the review process, the manuscript should not reserve the author’s identity or institutional affiliation. The author's name, address (including e-mail, if available), and institutional affiliation should appear only on a separate cover sheet. Manuscripts not conforming to this stipulation will be returned.
10. Manuscripts should be addressed to:
Dr. Diane Orlofsky
John M. Long School of Music
Troy University Troy, AL 36082
Please fill out all information completely and legibly. You may nominate yourself or someone else. All practicing Alabama music educators, K-University, who are members in good standing of AMEA are eligible to serve on this board. The term of service is two years. The deadline for the nomination form is March 1, 2010.
Nominee Name____________________________________________________________________
Work Address_____________________________________________________________________
Home Address_____________________________________________________________________
Phone number______________________email___________________________________________
Employer_________________________________________________________________________
Position__________________________________________________________________________
Highest earned degree______________________________________________________________
Check area(s) of specialty:
_____K – 6______Middle School
_____High School______College/University
_____General Music______Instrumental (band)
_____Instrumental (strings)______Vocal/choral
_____Qualitative research______Quantitative research
_____Music Education Methods (list_________________________________________)
Please explain why this person should be included on the AMEA Editorial Board
Submit this form by March 1, 2010 to:
Dr. Diane Orlofsky
John M. Long School of Music
Troy University
Troy, AL 36082
The MENC National Honor Ensembles are the newest addition to MENC's Music Education Week in Washington, D.C. and will take place June 23-29, 2010. MENC established the National Concert Band, Mixed Choir, Orchestra, and Jazz Band in answer to MENC member requests for the ultimate step of student recognition beyond state and divisional levels.
Audition Deadline: November 16, 2009
The deadline for MENC members to submit National Honor Ensemble audition materials for their high school sophomores and juniors* is November 16, 2009. Members should visit www.mencevents .org now to review the audition requirements and help their students rehearse and record MP3s in time to submit their auditions by the November 16 deadline. A $20.00 administration fee will be required for each application submitted.
"It is very exciting to know that MENC will select our country's finest high school concert musicians each year to perform together and receive the national recognition they deserve for their musical accomplishments," says Barbara L. Geer, president of MENC.
Conductors for the 2010 National Honor Ensembles will be:
Concert Band - Anthony Maiello, Director of Instrumental Studies at George Mason University, Fairfax, VA Mixed Choir - Andre Thomas, Director of Choral Activities at Florida State University Orchestra - TBD
Jazz Band - Maria Schneider, Composer/Conductor
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will host the 2010 National Concert Band, Mixed Choir, and Orchestra performance while the National Jazz Band will perform as part of the MENC Jazz Academy during Music Education Week in Washington.
Only active MENC members may submit audition material for their high school sophomores or juniors* audition materials to be considered for this national recognition. (To renew membership, call 800-828-0229 or visit www.menc.org.) If a student is selected to perform in one of these prestigious National Honor Ensembles, their cost will be $699. (Transportation to Washington DC is additional.)
Full information, audition materials list, and application is online at www.mencevents.org. For Honor Ensemble information and inquiries, email chrism@mencevents.org or call 800-479-8247 and ask for Chris Meeker.
*Note: Current high school seniors are not eligible to apply because most high school graduations take place before the event dates of June 23-29, 2010 and only students associated with a high school may participate
You’ll need experience. That’s why, at the University of North Alabama, we don’t stop with our majors in commercial music, music education, and instrumental and vocal performance. How about writing and recording your own music? Or performing with one of our many groups: bands, choirs, ensembles large and small, even a symphony orchestra? The opportunities are endless. So stretch your vocal cords, buzz your lips or wet your reed. IT’S
Dr. John Feierabend is considered one of the leading authorities on music and movement development in early childhood. He is a Professor of Music and the Director of the Music Education Division at The Hartt School of the University of Hartford and is a past President of the Organization of American Kodály Educators. Dr. Feierabend makes frequent presentations both in the United States and abroad and is the author of over 60 books, articles, CDs, DVDs and videotapes.
A music educator for over thirty years, he continues to be committed to collecting, preserving and teaching the diverse folk music of our country and using that folk music as a bridge to help children understand and enjoy classical music. His books are a result of his belief that when many generations share common experiences such as traditional folk songs and rhymes, it helps them develop a valuable but dwindling commodity - a sense of community. When adults share child like memories with children they not only connect children with their ancestors, they enrich their children's childhood and enable their children to some day tap into their own delicious childhood memories in order to share that same repertoire with their children.
The following list represents hotels/motels in Tuscaloosa participating in the 2008 AMEA In-Service Conference January 10-12. They have agreed to reserve a block of rooms at a special conference rate. Tax will be added to the following prices. You are requested to contact the facility of your choice by calling the number provided. To ensure availability and the conference rates, please call early and identify yourself with the block of rooms for the Alabama Music Educators Association Conference. Deadline for block is December 20, 2007.*
Country Inn and Suites
4801 McFarland Boulevard
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-345-9999
Doubles - $79.00
Courtyard by Marriott
4115 Courtney Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-750-8384
Doubles/Kings- $99.00
Fairfield Inn by Marriott
4101 Courtney Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-366-0900
Doubles/Kings - $84.00
Hampton Inn I59/20
6400 Interstate Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35453
205-562-9000
Doubles/Kings- $80
Hampton Inn University
600 Harper Lee Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
205-553-9800
Doubles/Kings - $94
Hotel Capstone
Conference Hotel
320 Bryant Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
205-752-3200
Standard Doubles/Kings- $96.00
Club Level - $121.00
The Hotel Capstone is currently sold out during the conference.
Ann Marie Musco, Assistant Professor at Georgia State University in Atlanta, earned her DMA in music education and conducting from the University of Oregon. Additionally, she holds degrees from the Hartt School of Music and Indiana University. Her 14 years of public school teaching, at all grade levels, included classes in band and general music in the Piedmont and San Lorenzo districts near San Francisco. She has presented at a variety of conferences including Eastern Division MENC and has written for the Journal of Band Research, The Instrumentalist, the MENC Collegiate ewslink, and other publications.
The Alabama Wind Ensemble is a select group of the finest wind players and percussionists from within the University Band Program and the School of Music. The instrumentation is flexible relative to the composition but all members are considered principal players The ensemble has been invited to perform at prestigious events such as the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles International Conference, the College Band Directors National Association Convention, the Southern Division of the Music Educators’ National Conference and the Alabama Music Educators’ Association State Conference.
The Alabama Wind Ensemble is committed to adding to the body of wind literature through its own commissioning project and participation in national and international consortiums. The Alabama University Band Program has commissioned and premiered works by notes composers Ira Hearshen, David Maslanka, Donald Granthan, Nigel Clarke and Richard Saucedo. The ensemble has also had the honor of performing under the baton of such distinguished conductors as Frederick Fennell and Karl Husa.
Sean Womack is the co-founder of DoubleStop Percussion, a Birmingham-based percussion education company providing percussion instruction for schools throughout the Southeast. He received his Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a Master of Music in Percussion Performance from the University of Georgia. Mr. Womack is a former member of Magic of Orlando Drum and Bugle Corps from Orlando, Florida and also has performed with the Macon Symphony Orchestra and the Savannah Symphony Orchestra. Currently, he is on staff at Spirit Drum and Bugle Corps where he serves as the percussion co-caption head. Mr. Womack also maintains a studio of percussion students from elementary through high school. He is in demand as an adjudicator, clinician, and arranger throughout the United States. His teachers include Dr. Eric Hollenbeck, Dr. Thomas McCutchen, and Dr. Arvin Scott. Mr. Womack is a member of Percussive Arts Society, MENC, and the Alabama Music Educators Association and is an endorser for Innovative Percussion, Pearl Drums, and Adams Musical Instruments. He is married to Sara, an elementary school music teacher, and is a father to two boys, Will and Mason.
Betsy Cook Weber received the Bachelor of Music degree from North Texas State University, a Master of Music degree from Westminster Choir College (Princeton, N.J.), and a Doctorate of Musical Arts in conducting from the University of Houston. Postgraduate study as a Music Fellow at Northwestern University (Evanston, Illinois). Dr. Weber directs the University Chorus and, from time- to-time, teaches various courses in conducting, choral literature, and rehearsal techniques. She served for seven years as Assistant and later Associate, Director of the Houston Symphony Chorus. Her duties with the Houston Symphony Chorus included assisting in the preparation of large choral-orchestral works for conductors such as Christoph Eschenbach, Robert Shaw, Robert Page, Peter Schrier, and Nicholas McKeegan among many others. She is highly sought-after and active as a conductor, clinician, lecturer, and adjudicator. Before coming to the University of Houston, Dr. Weber taught public-school vocal music (K-12). While there, she helped design various curricula, and her choirs received numerous awards and prizes. She was one of the founding directors of the all-district Spring Branch Boys Choir and also directed the Spring Branch Girls Choir. Dr. Weber's research activities include the editing of choral/instrumental works of the 18th century composer, Michael Haydn. Publications include Litanie della Madonna (1782), "Regina coeli," "Kyrie," and "Dixit Dominus."
The Alabama A&M University Choir continues a choral tradition, which had at its inception during the tenure of William Hooper Council, an ex-slave, who founded the school in 1875. The choir’s tradition includes an annual Christmas Musicale, which brings hundreds of music lovers from great distances to North Alabama each December. The choir’s tradition contains a high standard of excellence that is continuing under the present Interim Director, Dr. Horace Carney. Form directors, Richard F. Tucker, Assistant Professor of Music (1989-2002) and Nell Bradford (1947-1989) established this high standard. Each year, the choir is invited to various parts of the country to appear in concert. Past tours and appearances have included Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile, Anniston, and Phenix City, Alabama. Other cities include Los Angeles, CA, Atlanta, GA, ST. Louis, MO, Fayetteville, TN, Indianpolis, IN, Detroit, MI and Chicago, IL. In a previous concert, the press commented that this choral aggregation is one of the finest in the Southeast; however, a minister commented, “Indeed, this sentiment is too limited. The Alabama A&M University is one of the finest choirs in our nation.” In 2007 the choir accepted an invitation to participate in the American Choral Festival held in Leipzig, Germany. It is the first time that a HBCU school has participated in this prestigious music festival. The Alabama A&M University Choir released its first CD in 2006. The recording exemplifies the high standard of excellence in a variety of musical styles. It has been a success.
Bradley Vincent Palmer is co-founder of DoubleStop Percussion, a Birmingham, Alabama-based company providing percussion instruction for all levels of experience in schools across the southeast. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a Master of Arts from Middle Tennessee State University. His teachers include Eric Hollenbeck and Lalo Davila. He is an active educator, performer, arranger, adjudicator, and maintains a private instruction studio. He is an alumnus of the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps and Magic of Orlando Drum and Bugle Corps, and is a recipient of the 2000 Drum Corps International World Championship and Individual and Ensemble Percussion Ensemble Championship. He has taught as adjunct professor at Middle Tennessee State University and has instructed the Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps front ensemble since 2003. Mr. Palmer has presented clinics and masterclasses in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Ohio, Texas, and Colorado. Mr. Palmer resides in Hoover, Alabama with his wife Heather and their daughter Ella. He endorses Innovative Percussion, Inc.
Dr. Anne C. Witt is Adjunct Professor in the School of Music at the University of Alabama, where she teaches music education and strings. She also teaches classes for adult beginners and private cello lessons. She recently started a string program in the Tuscaloosa City Schools, and is a past president of Alabama ASTA. In Texas, shetaught middle school and high school orchestra and strings for fourteen years,was Director of the University of Texas String Project, and taught at the University of Texas at Arlington. Dr. Witt has presented clinics in many states and at national conventions of ASTA, MENC and at the Midwest Clinic. Her presentations include “student tested” teaching strategies on such topics as creative classroom management, communication, and motivation. She has served as guest conductor for many All-Region orchestras in Texas, and at festival orchestras and All-State orchestras. Dr. Witt is co-author of Teaching Stringed Instruments: A Course of Study, published by MENC. She is author of A Rhythm a Week, published by Alfred Publishing, used by school classes and private students nationwide and internationally. She served as Consulting Editor for the new series Orchestra Expressions, also published by Alfred. Dr. Witt has served as President of the Texas Orchestra Directors Association and President of the American String Teachers Association. She earned the Bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama, and M.M. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Texas at Austin. She was a professional cellist in the Austin Symphony for twenty years, and now plays in a wedding quartet called Four Strings Attached. She serves on the Tuscaloosa Symphony Board and is president of the String Quartet Society of Tuscaloosa.
Daniel Sweaney made his New York debut in Avery Fisher Hall at the 1999 Mostly Mozart Festival performing with world renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman. “..extremely talented and highly trained...poised and accomplished...” said StringsMagazine. Mr. Sweaney began his musical studies at age eleven and has since had a diverse education in the United States and Europe. He has won many prizes and performed across the globe. He has won prizes at the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, the Down Beat Magazine Chamber Music Competition, was a two time recipient of the Interlochen Arts Academy Fine Arts Award for Outstanding Performance in Viola, he was the recipient a Frank Huntington Beebe Grant, and winner of the Fifth Annual Sister Mary Faustina Memorial Concert in Marylhurst, Oregon. He has been teaching assistant to Heidi Castleman and a chamber music coach at The Perlman Music Program. He participated in exchange programs through The Perlman Music Program on trips to Tel-Aviv and Shanghai. Mr. Sweaney has held faculty positions at the Cleveland School for the Arts, Rice University Preparatory Department, the Lovett School in Atlanta Georgia, The Boulder Arts Academy, was a guest artist at the St. Joseph’s School of Music in Minneapolis, Minnesota, teaching assistant at the University of Colorado, and is on the faculty of the North American Viola Institute. He has given masterclasses at the University of Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Southern Illionois, Bowling Green State University, and the Instituto Superior de Arte in Havana Cuba. Mr. Sweaney has collaborated with Itzhak Perlman, Ani Aznavoorian, Ron Leonard, His major teachers include Heidi Castleman, David Holland, Thomas Riebl, Martha Strongin-Katz,Roger Tapping, Erika Eckert, and Geraldine Walther. In 2007 Mr. Sweaney toured with the Signum String Quartet and was heard on a live broadcast by West German Radio. He is currently on the faculty of the University of Alabama.In his spare time he enjoys training for endurance events such as open water swimming, triathlons, and marathons.
Dr. Dan Hornstein is the director of the Arts Magnet Orchestra program for the Huntsville City Schools, as well as teaching German at Lee High School and online. He has been a faculty member at the University of North Alabama, Minot State University (ND), and the University of Texas at Arlington. He has a major career as an orchestra conductor, appearing in engagements in the US and Europe. In 2000, he received the “String Teacher of the Year” award from the North Dakota American String Teacher’s Association, and was named by MENC as one of the countries’ “Top 500 Music Educators”. He has served as President of the Alabama Orchestra Association and is currently President of Alabama ASTA. He is one of only 13 music teachers in the state to hold National Certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. He will guest-conduct the Colorado All-State Philharmonic Orchestra in February 2010.
Corey Spurlin servesas Associate Director of Bands, Marching Band Director,and Assistant Professor of Music at Auburn University. In addition to his work with the Sudler-winning Auburn Marching Band and Pep Band, Dr. Spurlin conducts the Concert Band, Campus Band, and is associate conductor of the Symphonic Band. He also teaches courses in conducting, wind band literature, and marching band techniques. He received the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in wind conducting from Louisiana State University, where he studied with Frank B. Wickes, and the Master of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in music education from the University of Alabama.
The R.F. Bumpus Middle School Concert Choir is a non-auditioned group composed of 7th and 8th grade students who love to sing. The Choral Department at Bumpus Middle began when the school opened in 1999 and has steadily grown to in excess of 200 members in three grades as of this school year. The Concert Choir students are normally split into two graded choirs and have been combined for this performance. Both groups have received overall superior ratings at District Performance Evaluations for the last two years.Each year they perform a Fall and Spring Concert as well as a multitude of recruiting and community performances.
Dr. C. David Ragsdale currently serves as the conductor of the Wind Ensemble, Director of Bands, and Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Associate Director of Bands for the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami where he directed the internationally-acclaimed "Band of the Hour" for the Miami Hurricanes, along with various other campus bands, including a two-year post as the Assistant Conductor of the Greater Miami Symphonic Band – one of the oldest and most storied Community Bands in the nation. In addition to university teaching responsibilities in the areas of music education and conducting, Dr. Ragsdale is an active performer/conductor and founder of the Huntsville Chamber Winds, a professional chamber music ensemble in the Huntsville area. Prior to his collegiate teaching career, Dr. Ragsdale taught music in the public schools of North Carolina where his bands earned consistent Superior ratings and numerous awards in concert and marching festivals across the state and the Southeast. During his public school career, he was named teacher of the year at the then-largest high school in the state and was a finalist for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1997. Dr. Ragsdale holds memberships in the College Band Directors National Association and the National Band Association. Additionally, he is a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia – Professional Music Fraternity for Men, Pi Kappa Lambda – National Honorary Music Fraternity, Kappa Delta Pi – National Honorary Education Fraternity, and is an honorary member of Tau Beta Sigma – National Band Fraternity. In 2004, Dr. Ragsdale was inducted into the Iron Arrow Society, the highest honor attainable at the University of Miami. Dr. Ragsdale holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Appalachian State University (NC), a Master of Music degree from Winthrop University (SC), and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Miami (FL). He and his wife Jennifer, also a musician, currently reside in Madison, Alabama along with their daughter, Ella Leigh.
Dr. Chip Crotts, Associate Professor of Trumpet and Jazz Studies at Samford University, has been an on-call artist for the Disney Company and has performed and recorded throughout the US and Europe. A GRAMMY nominated performer, Chip has toured and performed with international artists such as Boston Brass, Rhythm and Brass, Ray Charles, The Manhattan Transfer, Natalie Cole and Maynard Ferguson. Chip is also in frequent demand as a freelance musician throughout the United States and is a first call player for many national touring companies and artists. Dr. Crotts is very active in the marching arts, having served as an adjudicator for Drum Corps International and Bands of America. Chip currently teaches during the summer and has been on the staff of Spirit and Phantom Regiment, and marched as a member of Phantom and the Blue Devils. He is currently in his first season on the brass staff of the 13-time DCI World Champion, Blue Devils. Dr. Crotts received a Bachelor of Music Business degree from East Carolina University and a Master of Music in Trumpet Performance from Penn State University. Chip also holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Trumpet Performance and Jazz Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. Chip currently performs with groups such as the Alabama Symphony, Huntsville Symphony, SuperJazz Big Band and the Night Flight Big Band. He is also an associate member of The Tuscaloosa Horns, with whom he performs regularly with artists such as the Temptations, Four Tops, OJ’s, and Mary Wilson and the Supremes. Previously, Dr. Crotts served on the faculty of Jacksonville State University and is a Yamaha Performing Artist.
The Alabama Symphonic Band is one of four concert ensembles housed within the University Bands and the School of Music. The Alabama Symphonic Band is an auditioned group of both graduate and undergraduate music majors and nonmusic majors that rehearses two times per week during the Fall and Spring semesters.
Elva Kaye Lance is Director of Bands at Mississippi State University, and with her appointment in 2002, she became only the eighth person in the band’s one hundred and seven year history to hold that position. A veteran music educator of 32 years, her current responsibilities include conducting the Wind Ensemble, providing leadership for the Famous Maroon Band and administering all aspects of the band program. Now in her eighteenth year at Mississippi State, Ms. Lance teaches methods classes within the Music Department and assist with supervision of the student teachers. Prior to joining the faculty at MSU, Ms. Lance served as a director at the junior high and high school levels in the state of Mississippi where her bands consistently received superior ratings in all categories. Ms. Lance maintains an active schedule as a clinician and adjudicator for both concert and marching band events throughout the country. The MSU Wind Ensemble recently completed a concert tour of Ireland and England in May, 2008. Professionally, she is a member of the National Band Association, Mississippi Bandmaster’s Association, Kappa Kappa Psi, Sigma Alpha Iota, Phi Beta Mu, Phi Kappa Phi, Music Educator’s National Conference, College Music Society and the College Band Director‘s National Association.
Erin Colwitz received her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in 1998. She later completed the Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Southern California in Choral music. Dr. Colwitz studied conducting with William Dehning, David Wilson, Magen Solomon, and Claire McCoy. At USC, she was awarded a full teaching assistantship as conductor of the Thornton Oriana Choir, the University’s only women’s chorus, a post she held from 2003-2006. At USC, she also sang with William Dehning and the award-winning Thornton Chamber Choir touring France and Belgium in 2003 and East Asia in 2006. As a professional singer, Dr. Colwitz was contracted to sing with the Dale Warland Singers in 1999. As part of this extraordinary ensemble, she performed with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and Minnesota Orchestra under the direction of Robert Shaw, Edo de Waart, and Hugh Wolff. The DWS were nominated for a Grammy for their recording of Dominick Argento pieces; Dr. Colwitz’s doctoral treatise is a critical analysis of Argento’s, A Toccata of Galuppi’s, a twelve-tone work found on that recording. Dr. Colwitz is currently the Director of Choral Activities at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She conducts the Chamber Choir and Concert Choir, teaches private voice lessons, and choral education methods classes. Dr. Colwitz is also the newly appointed conductor and artistic director of the Huntsville Master Chorale, the oldest chamber chorale in Huntsville. She serves frequently as contest adjudicator and choral clinician throughout Alabama. Dr. Colwitz is a member of MENC, the Alabama Vocal Association, the National Collegiate Choral Organization (NCCO), American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), International Federation for Choral Music (IFCM), and Pi Kappa Lambda. Dr. Colwitz lives in Jones Valley with her husband, William Dehning, accomplished conductor, Emeritus Professor, and published author, and their very silly golden retriever, Sam.
The Florence City Schools String Orchestra is in its 10th year. Begun in 1999 under the direction of Mr. Sergio Espinosa, it was a “pull-out” program. Students were pulled out from other classes a few days a week to explore the world of stringed-instruments. It was a joint venture with the University of North Alabama. In the fall of 2004, Mr. Daniel Jamieson became the director as a part time teacher exclusively with FCS. Since 2004, some major changes have taken place in the structure of the program. The biggest, and most beneficial, is the addition of string orchestra as a regular, daily class for 9th graders beginning in the fall of 2004, 7th and 8th graders in the fall of 2005, and then for all students 6th grade and up beginning in the fall of 2006. Currently, there are about 100 students involved in the orchestra, divided into the 3 groups. In recent years, the orchestra has had the privilege of hosting some world-class professional artist residencies, including guitar/cello duo “Montana Skies” and high-energy fiddle group “Barrage”. The FCS Orchestra program has consistently produced many Alabama All-State Orchestra participants. In January of 2008, Mr. Jamieson and the FCS Orchestra were recipients of the Melody Award from the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation.
Terry Ownby is in his nineteenth year of teaching instrumental music in the Muscle Shoals School system. He holds both a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and a Master of Arts in Education from the University of North Alabama. Mr. Ownby is active as an adjudicator, clinician, as a marching band drill designer throughout the Southeast, and served as the camp coordinator for the W.C. Jazz Music Camp from 1999-2007. He was recently a clinician at the 2005 Alabama Music Educators conference. Terry plays trumpet professionally and has performed with Alabama, Percy Sledge, The Speer Family, William Lee Golden, The Oak Ridge Boys and the world renowned Muscle Shoals Horn Section. He is the lead trumpet player for the Shoals Area Big Band, is a founding member and leader of the Shoals Dixieland Band, and has also appeared with the Legends of Jazz Big Band for the W.C. Handy Music Festival in 2003 and 2004, the Millennium Big Band for the Huntsville Symphony Association, and on the General Jackson Showboat. Mr. Ownby currently serves as the Recording Secretary for the Alabama Bandmasters Association and is the past Chairman of District III. He is a five time member of Who’s Who Among Americas Teachers, listed in Who’s Who in America for 2005, and was nominated for the 2004 Disney Hand Teacher Awards for creativity in teaching. He is the recipient of the National Band Associations “Citation of Excellence” for his contribution to bands and band music. Mr. Ownby is active as a guest clinician in Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi. He holds memberships in MENC, AMEA, Kappa Kappa Psi, ABA, and NBA. Terry and his wife, Laura, have two children; fifteenyear-old Emily Lee and twelve-year old Elizabeth Lauren.
Gene Fambrough,
DMA, is currently Assistant Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Percussion at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he has been on the faculty since 2001. He holds degrees from The University of Georgia, East Carolina University, and The University of Alabama. He directs the UAB Percussion Ensemble, Steel Band, Electro-Acoustic Percussion Group, serves as percussion arranger and instructor for the UAB Marching Blazers, and is assistant conductor for the UAB Wind Symphony and Symphony Band. A published composer, he has written works for many different mediums, including solo marimba, multiple percussion with tape, marimba quartet, percussion ensemble, and various forms of rudimental percussion. As a performer, he has appeared with the Alabama Symphony, the North Carolina Symphony, Panama Steel, The Bizarre Arte Ensemble, and the Spirit of Atlanta drum and bugle corps. Dr. Fambrough’s articles have appeared in Percussive otes and The Instrumentalist. He has also presented lectures on the use of non-traditional notation for multiple percussion solos, including techniques utilized by Stockhausen, Feldman, and Xenakis. Prior to his appointment at UAB, he spent three years in public school education as both assistant band director and band director at Oak Grove High School in Bessemer, Alabama. His professional affiliations include the Percussive Arts Society, Music Educators National Conference, Kappa Kappa Psi, and Pi Kappa Lambda. He is a clinician/endorser for Sabian Cymbals, Innovative Percussion sticks and mallets, and Black Swamp accessories.
The Baker High School Band is located in Mobile, AL. The program has received many awards and accolades throughout its history, including performing at the Loyola University Invitational Band Festival in New Orleans, Louisiana with composer Phillip Sparke in 2007, many years of superior ratings at the Alabama Bandmasters Association Music Performance Assessment, many years of superior ratings in area and regional marching contests, and at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2004. Students in the Baker High School Band Program participate in the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band. Both bands along with the color guard, dance team, and drum
line combine to form the award winning “Pride” of Baker High School Marching Band. The Jazz program features the Baker Jazz Band that meets regularly from November to May. The Baker Jazz Band has participated in the University of South Alabama Jazz Festival and the Mississippi State Jazz Festival where it has won the “Outstanding Performance” award. Baker High School band students are active in the Mobile County Honor Band and the Alabama Bandmasters Association All-State Band Festival and Solo and Ensemble Festival. Students actively participate in various instrumental honors ensemble festivals and clinics throughout Alabama and the surrounding states. Causey Middle School under the direction of Chester Bean, Phillips Preparatory School under the direction of Heather Moore, as well as other area middle schools and parochial schools, send fine musicians to the Baker High School Band Program annually.
The University Singers is the School of Music’s premiere choral ensemble and consists of 40 auditioned singers. University Singers has performed three times at the internationally-renown Spivey Hall of Atlanta, Georgia. Major works in the past five years include Bach‘s Johannespassion, Brahms Ein deutches Requiem, Orff Carmina burana, and the Verdi Requiem. The 2010 season will include performances of Britten’s Cantata misericordium and Duruflé’s Requiem. Most recently, University Singers and the University Wind Ensemble premiered Enterprise, a commissioned composition by Hollywood composer/orchestator/arranger, Ira Hearshen. This work commemorated the death of seven Enterprise High School students during the tornado of 2007, and the inaugural recording will be released on the NAXOS label in January 2010. University Singers have been included in concerts with Ward Swingle, James Earl Jones, Della Reese, and William Warfield, have made two recordings of the 40-year tradition, Hilaritas, three premieres of choral pieces at the SCI 1992 National Conference, and an appearance at the 1994 Southern Regional ACDA Convention in Knoxville.
Jody Underwood is product of music technology. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Commercial Music with a Music Technology emphasis from Belmont University in Nashville, TN. A seasoned producer and songwriter, he has composed and produced music for PBS, Nissan, Underground-Mix, and Power Forward Films and currently plays piano for his local church. A love for, and belief in, music and technology led him to SoundTree in 2001, where he is a Senior Account Manager, having designed nearly 200 systems nationwide. Jody lives in Middle TN with his wife Roxanne and baby girl, Ryley.
The Huntsville High School Band has an enviable record of achievement. The band has consistently rated superior in district, state, and regional concert, marching, and jazz competitions. With Dr. Spencer at the podium, the band has performed throughout the United States, as well as in Germany, Austria, England, Ireland, the Bahamas, Sweden, and Denmark. The Symphonic Band has received two invitations to perform at the University of Southern Mississippi Conductor’s Clinic, the Tri-State Clinic at Florida State University, three AMEA conferences, and MENC Southern Division conferences in both Orlando and Charleston. In 2004, the bgand won the first prize at he prestigious Gothenburg Music Festival in Sweden, and in 2008, the band marched in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin. Annually, the Huntsville High Band is well represented in the Alabama All-State Orchestra and Band. Several of the schools’ graduates have become music educators.
The Pelham High School Wind Ensemble is the premier instrumental performing group at Pelham. The group is one of two concert ensembles and is made up of seventy musicians in grades nine through twelve who earn and keep their positions within the group through a series of yearly class evaluations. The students who make up the Wind Ensemble are active in performances with Pelham’s jazz, brass, woodwind and percussion ensembles and many of the group’s members form student teaching teams that teach private and group lessons at Pelham’s two feeder programs Riverchase and Helena Middle Schools. Individual performance is stressed in the Wind Ensemble which is evidenced by the number of students who audition for and are chosen for various university honor bands, district and county honor bands and all-state. The Pelham program has been fortunate to perform at locations around the country including Chicago, New York, Williamsburg, Washington D.C., Dallas, Orlando and Nassau, Bahamas and has consistently been rated superior at state and national festivals. While travel and competition are huge motivators to the students in the group, theycontinue to be focused on upholding the rich tradition of musical performance that is so much a part of the program. Each year, over seventy-five percent of the graduating members of Pelham’s Wind Ensemble go on to continue their music in college ensembles and currently Pelham has more than ten graduates pursuing music performance or music education as a career.
Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, Ian Loeppky has been the Assistant Professor and Director of Choral Activities at the University of North Alabama since the fall of 2003. His studies began at the University of Manitoba, continued at the University of Minnesota, and finished at the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati. He has also studied with Dale Warland, Frieder Bernius, Martin Isepp, Charles Bruffy, and Bobby McFerrin. He is a member of the American Choral Directors Association, the Music Educators National Convention, the National Collegiate Choral Organization, the Alabama Vocal Association, the International Federation for Choral Music, Phi Mu Alpha, and Pi Kappa Lambda. He is currently the Repertoire and Standards Chair for Multicultural Choral Music for the Alabama chapter of ACDA. He has worked as a singer, scholar, conductor, clinician, adjudicator, and arranger in Canada, the United States, and Portugal. He directs all four choral ensembles at UNA and teaches undergraduate and graduate choral conducting, choral techniques, and graduate choral literature. In addition, he directs the choir at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, is founder and artistic director of Florence Camerata,and is in demand as a clinician and adjudicator throughout the region and internationally. He is a frequent contributor to the Choral Journal and the Alabama Reprise.
The Auburn University Chamber Choir is the premier choral ensemble at Auburn University. Under the direction of Dr. William C. Powell, the group was formed from the university concert choir in response to many student requests for a smaller, more select ensemble. In recent years, the choir sung at the Washington National Cathedral, and select members participated in performances at Carnegie Hall in 2006 and 2009. They are also scheduled to take a European tour in the summer.
Marvin E. Latimer Jr.,
Ph.D. is currently Assistant Professor of Choral Music Education and Director of the University Chorus at the University of Alabama. He has published articles on various choral pedagogy topics in Choral Journal, International Journal for Research in Choral Singing, Journal of Historical Research in Music Education, and Contributions to Music Education.Currently, he serves on the Alabama ACDA Board and Chairs the Organizational History Subcommittee of the ACDA Research and Publications Committee. Dr. Latimer writes a Choral Journal column focused on the ACDA International Archives as a historical data source for research in choral music.
Sean Powell is Assistant Professor of Music Education at the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University. He teaches instrumental methods, conducting, wind ensemble literature, the graduate seminar in music education, supervises student teachers, and conducts the Wind Orchestra. Dr. Powell also serves as the faculty advisor for the CSU chapter of CMENC. Dr. Powell received the Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Tennessee Technological University, the Master of Music in Conducting from Illinois State University, and the Doctor of Education in Music Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Dr. Powell served as the Director of Instrumental Music at White County High School and White County Middle School in Sparta, Tennessee. He also served as Director of Bands at Northwest High School in Clarksville, Tennessee. His research interests include music teacher education, psychological conducting, programming practices, and intonation. Articles by Dr. Powell have been accepted for publication in the Bulletin of the Council for Research in Music Education and the Journal of Band Research. Additionally, he has presented research at the Annual Conference of the Illinois Music Educators Association, Annual Conference of the Committee on Institutional Cooperation, and the Georgia CMENC Conference. He is a member of MENC, GMEA, CBDNA, NBA, SRME, IMTE, SMTE, and CMS.
Peter and Mary Alice Amidon are master teachers of traditional dance and singing games, prolific collectors, composers and publishers of great songs for children and children’s choirs, inspired leaders of harmony singing with adults, and dynamic storytellers for all ages. They are in demand throughout the United States at Orff and Kodaly regional music teacher workshops, and have been headliners at several AOSA and OAKE national conferences. They are founding members of New England Dancing Masters, publishers of dance materials for children and teachers. They are both former elementary school music teachers.
The Oak Mountain Middle School Advanced Symphonic Band is made up of 75 of the top seventh and eighth grade musicians at Oak Mountain Middle School. This auditioned group has consistently made superior ratings at district and state assessments, and most recently received all Superior ratings at the Trills and Thrills Concert Band Festival in Pigeon Forge, TN. Many of the students are active participants in All-State and honor bands throughout the state. In 2009, 5 students made the All-State Band, with 4 alternates, 24 students were selected to participate in the District IV Honor Band, and 47 students made up over 50% of the students selected for the Shelby County Middle School Honor Band. Oak Mountain Middle School is located in north Shelby County, Alabama. The band program has 300 students this year. Performing groups include the Advanced Symphonic Band, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, and Beginner Band. Heather Holmes is the Assistant Director and directs the Symphonic Band.
Under the direction of Leslie Owens, the Spanish Fort Middle School Symphonic Band has earned Superior ratings each year at District VII Contest and Superior ratings at State Contest in 1999, 2003,2004 and 2009 (during years 2006 – 2008, the middle school students were temporarily relocated to SFHS). In 2001 and 2002 the band earned an Excellent rating at State Contest. The band program each year has placed up to half of the band students in the Baldwin County Honor Band and has also placed 1 to 8 students in the Alabama Jr. High All State Band. Several of Spanish Fort Alumni students are members of the Mobile Youth Symphony Orchestra. Each year the Beginner Band and 7th & 8th Grade Symphonic Band perform Christmas and Spring Concerts. The majority of the band students have participated in the District VII Solo & Ensemble Festival each year. Occasionally, the Symphonic Band has attended and earned Superior ratings at festivals in Gatlinburg, TN and Houston, TX. The band has also attended and performed at the Alabama Music Educator’s Conference in 2004. Each year brings new experiences and as the band director of these fine students I realize that I have had the wonderful and rewarding opportunity to be their band director. Each day I look forward to their efforts, wonderful attitudes and determination as well as their smiles and laughter. The most rewarding part is to see the smiles on their faces when they have accomplished a task (individually or as a group) that they can be proud of.
Dr. Ran Whitley is the Chair for the Division of Fine Arts and Assistant Professor of Music Education at Campbell University in Buies Creek, NC. He received a B.M.E. from Appalachian State University, a Ph.D.in Music Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a Doctorate of Ministry from the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.He has completed Orff Levels I, II and III and the Orff Master Class at the University of Memphis. Ran has extensive experience in elementary music education as well as children’s music ministry. He is the author of numerous articles and publications and has composed music for recorder and ORFF instruments. He is the author of Orchestrations for the Be A Recorder Star Method.
The Hueytown High School Concert Choir is one of four choirs at Hueytown High School. Students in the concert choir are in grades nine through twelve and exhibit exemplary singing and sight-reading abilities as well as being proficient in music theory. These students represent a cross section of the student body including members of most sports and other activities. The Concert Choir students rehearse together as a group three days a week and are held to very high standards both musically and academically. The Concert Choir has consistently received superior ratings at both district and state performance evaluations. Each year the choir has numerous members selected to participate in the Alabama All-State Choirs. The Concert Choir has performed at Carnegie Hall and in Disney’s Candlelight Processional. Other notable achievements include superior ratings and first place awards at national festivals in Orlando, Chicago, Atlanta, and Gatlinburg. In 2010, the choir will perform a concert at St. John’s Cathedral in New York City. The choir also supports its community by performing at various civic, church, and school events throughout the year and frequently performs for Jefferson County Board of Education functions. The choral program motto is “Excellence is Not an Accident.”
The Honors Chorus is in its thirtieth year of existence as the premier choral ensemble at John Carroll Catholic High School. For the past several years, the choir has consistently received superior ratings at district and state festivals as well as competitions all over North America. This past year the choir finished in the top five at the Alamo Showcase of Music in San Antonio, TX and was honored to be invited to perform at the Alabama Vocal Association’s Fall Workshop.
Larry Marchese’s formal music career started in 1974. He has been using music technology since 1978 and has extensive experience with MIDI, sampling, recording, and electronic composition tools. He has provided hundreds of technology clinics and worked with schools across the USA. His specialties are notation software and SmartMusic, which is why he is the Education Solutions Manager for MakeMusic, Inc. Larry is based in the Nashville area.
Mr. Randall Coleman is currently the Associate Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Alabama where he serves as the conductor of the Alabama Symphonic Band, the Associate Conductor of the Alabama Wind Ensemble and the Associate Director of the “Million Dollar Band.” He also teaches graduate and undergraduate conducting and wind band literature classes. Mr. Coleman is also the Coordinator of the Crimson Music Camps held each summer at the University of Alabama. Prior to his appointment to the faculty at the University of Alabama, Mr. Coleman enjoyed a successful 25 year career as a high school band director and supervisor in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Education at Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama, and the Masters of Music Education degree from Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia. During his teaching career in Georgia, Mr. Coleman was an active member of the Georgia Music Educators' Association, where he held the office of President, First Vice-President and State Band Division Chair. Mr. Coleman also served as Georgia State Chair for the National Band Association. He has been awarded the Citation of Excellence from the National Band Association on eight occasions and was the 1992 recipient of the American School Band Directors Association's Stanbury Award for the state of Georgia and the southeastern United States. Mr. Coleman was inducted into the John Philip Sousa Foundations' "Legion of Honor" in 2004 and is also listed in "Who's Who Among America's Teachers." Under his direction, the Milton High School Wind Ensemble performed at the 2004 GMEA Inservice Conference, the 2004 Bands of America National Concert Band Festival and the 2006 National Convention of the Music Educators’ National Conference. Mr. Coleman holds membership in the Music Educators’ National Conference, the College Band Directors National Association, the National Band Association, Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, the Alabama Music Educators Association and the Alabama Bandmasters Association.
Las Canciones, directed by Kathy Hughes, is the auditioned women’s choir of Spanish Fort High School in Spanish Fort, AL. The choir consists of students in grades 10-12who are committed to excellence in the arts, academics, and other areas of school life. Since its formation in 2005, the choir has consistently received superior ratings at District and State Performance Assessments. In addition, choir members have auditioned and won positions in Alabama All-State Choirs. Las Canciones shares its dedication to and love of choral music with its audience. The choir is a stellar representative ofSpanish Fort High School and the Spanish Fort, AL community.
Dr. Renée L. Baptiste, Associate Professor of Music at Jacksonville State University, teaches undergraduate/graduate courses in general and choral music as well as research methods. Other duties include directing Encore!, and advising CMENC. Dr. Baptiste graduated from: William Carey College (BM); Eastman School of Music (MM); and the University of Florida (Ph.D.). Her research interests include the music preferences of adolescents. Her latest publication “Folk Song Preference of Middle and Junior High School General Music Students” appears in the Kodály Envoy (Summer, 2009). She has presented at the 9th International Conference on Technological Directions in Music Learning, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, the Mountain Lake Colloquium for Teachers of General Music Methods, the MENC North Central Division Conference, Organization of American Kodály Educators, and several state conferences.
Dr. Myrtice Jackson-Collins, Associate Professor of Music at Jacksonville State University, teaches Introduction to Music, Class Piano, and Survey of Black Music. She also directs the exciting JSU Gospel Choir which has performed at Disney World and on international television. She received the following degrees from Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN: Bachelor of Science (Music Education), Master of Science (Music Education) and EdD in Educational Administration. She is author of a book and CD entitled Rap N Facts that teaches multiplication and addition facts to rap music. She has given several presentations on the subject. Currently she is researching shape note music from an African-American perspective. Prior to joining JSU, Dr. Collins was a music specialist for the New London School System in Connecticut. She also sang back up for the legendary Jimmy Hendrix and traveled with the USO to Germany, Denmark, England, Romania, Bulgaria, Austria and Sweden.
The Muscle Shoals High School Concert Percussion
Ensemble was created in 2003 as a major performing ensemble. It is a class that coincides with concert band during the spring semester. From 2003-2008, the group performed on spring concerts and for local elementary schools. The group also performed at many in-state percussion festivals usually in the Birmingham area. In 2008, the ensemble became members of the Southeastern Colorguard Circuit and Winterguard International and began competing within the Concert Percussion Open Class. In 2008 and 2009, the ensemble won their class at SCGC championships. In 2008, the ensemble finished with a bronze medal at WGI World Championships. In 2009, the ensemble won the Gold Medal at WGI World Championships. The ensemble this year will be competing in the Concert Percussion World Class.
Sid Hearn is Assistant Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music at Marian University in Indianapolis, recently named by Halftime magazine as the city that is the “center for the music arts.” Dr. Hearn teaches trumpet, instrumental, music education, and technology courses in the Music Department and maintains an active schedule as a consultant, adjudicator, designer, and guest conductor across the Midwest and Southeast. His trumpet teachers include Dr. Ramon Vasquez at Auburn University, and Dr. Edd Jones at the University of North Alabama. He studied arranging with Dr. Johnnie Vinson, and wind conducting with Dr. Rick Good. His experience teaching in the public schools of Alabama includes posts as Director of Bands at Falkville High School and Deshler High School, where his bands consistently earned superior rating. Dr. Hearn received the Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of North Alabama (1997), and the Master of Education (2004) and Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education (2009) degrees from Auburn University. Sid's research interests include recruitment and retention of music teachers and technological applications to music education, including distance learning. He is a member of College Band Directors National Association, College Music Society, Instrumental Music Teacher Educators, MENC, Society for Music Teacher Education, Technology Institute for Music Educators, and Kappa Kappa Psi.
The Vestavia Hills Elementary Central Honor Choir consists of 123 5th grade students.
Numerous performance opportunities
Variety of large and small ensemble groups
Highly active teaching and performing faculty
Excellent academic program
Scholarships available in all areas
Lovely mountainside campus setting
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
AMEA Governing Board
Pat Stegall, Presiding
BCC, Smith
8:15 p.m.
ABA Governing Board
Chuck Eady, Presiding
BCC, Smith
AVA Governing Board
Damion Womack, Presiding
BCC, Morgan
AOA Governing Board
Marcy Wilson, Presiding
Moody, 258
CME C Governing Board
Lindsey Folsom, Presiding
Moody, 180
7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Conference Registration
BCC, Sellers Registration Lobby
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
ABA Concert Session
Pelham High School Band
Jeff Burnside, Conductor
Moody Concert Hall
Elem/Gen/AVAInterestSession
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
9:45a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
John Feirabend, Clinician
BCC, Rast
All-State Show Choir Registration
Moody, 204
Alabama Honor Choir Registration
Moody, Choral-Op Room (Vestibule)
ABA/CME C Interest Session
Developing Middle School Percussionists
Sean Womack and Brad Palmer, Clinicians
Moody, Recital Hall
AVA/HED/AOA Interest Session
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
12 Steps to Music Literacy Using Conversational Solfege - Part 1
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The “A” Word: Implementing Group Choral Audition Procedures
Marvin Latimer, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
Elem/Gen Interest Session
Be a Recorder Star!
Ran Whitley
BCC, Rast
Thursday,
Thursday,
9:45a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
FAME - Welcome and Session 1
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
All-State Show Choir Rehearsal
Moody, 204
Alabama Honor Choir Rehearsal
Moody, Choral-Op Room
10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
11:00 a.m. - Noon
FAME Session 2
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
AVA Concert Session
Spanish Fort High School Las Canciones
Kathy Hughes, Conductor
Alabama A&M University Concert Choir
Horace Carney, Conductor
Moody, Concert Hall
ABA Interest Session
Chamber Wind Literature for Developing Bands
Corey Spurlin, Clinician
Moody, Recital Hall
Elem/Gen Interest Session
12 Steps to Music Literacy Using Conversational Solfege - Part 2
John Feirabend, Clinician
BCC, Rast
AOA Interest Session
ew String Orchestra Music Reading Session
Dan Hornstein, Clinician
Moody, 258
Technology/HED Session
ew Trends in Music Technology
Jody Underwood, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
CME C Interest Session
The Enhancement of Learning Styles Through the Use of African American Music
Renee Baptiste and Myrtice Collins, Clinicians
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Exhibits Open
BCC, Sellers Exhibit Hall
11:45 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m.-2:00p.m.
FAME Luncheon
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
CME C Mixer
Wesley Student Center
FAME Visit Exhibits
BCC, Sellers Exhibit Hall
1:00 p.m.-2:00p.m. AOA Concert Session
Florence High School String Orchestra
Daniel Jamieson, Conductor
Moody, Concert Hall
ABA Concert Session
Muscle Shoals High School Percussion Ensemble
David Waters, Conductor
Moody, Choral-Op Room
AVA Interest Session
The Ten Commandments of Leading Happy, Productive Choral Rehearsals
Betsy Cook Weber, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
Elem/Gen Interest Session
Music for Children’s Choirs
Peter and Mary Alice Amidon, Clinicians
BCC, Rast
HED Interest Session
Building a Jazz Program from the Ground Up
Chip Crotts, Clinician
Moody, 180
All-State Jazz Band Registration
Moody, 201
2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
All-State Show Choir Rehearsal
Moody, 204
All-State Jazz Band Rehearsal
Moody, 201
Alabama Honor Choir Rehearsal
2:15p.m.-3:15p.m.
ABA Interest Session
Improving the Sound of Your Percussion Section
Gene Fambrough, Clinician
Moody, Recital Hall
FAME Session 3
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
Technology/AVA/HED Interest Session
Success in Designing a Music Technology System
Jody Underwood, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
Elem/Gen Board Meeting
Sharon August, Presiding
BCC, Rast
AOA Business Meeting
Marcy Wilson, Presiding
Moody, 258
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010
2:15p.m. - 3:15p.m.
CME C Interest Session
Developing Comprehensive Musicianship in the Ensemble Classroom
Sean Powell, Clinician
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
3:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
FAME Session 4 Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
ABA Concert Session
Spanish Fort Middle School Band
Leslie Owens, Conductor Moody, Concert Hall
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m
AVA Interest Session
Thirty-Three Opinionated Ideas About How to Choose Repertoire for Musical Success
Betsy Cook Weber, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
CME C Interest Session
Seven Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Blame the Weather!
Ann Marie Musco, Clinician
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
AOA Business Meeting (Continues)
Marcy Wilson, Presiding Moody, 258
HED Interest Session
A Look at the Culture of Band Directing in the Southeast
Sid Hearn, Clinician Moody, 180
4:00p.m. – 4:30p.m.
4:45p.m.-5:45 p.m.
FAME Wrap-up
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
Elem/Gen Concert Session
Vestavia Hills Elementary Central
Kate Donaldson, Director
Jacksonville State University Children’s Opera Theatre
Nathan Wight, Director
Moody, Concert Hall
ABA/AOA Interest Session
Born to Be Mild? Becoming a Wild Director Again
C. David Ragsdale, Clinician
Moody, Recital Hall
AVA/CME C Interest Session
I Should Have Been Standing Here All Along! Voicing Your Choir for Optimum Performance
Ian Loeppky, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
HED Mixer/Poster Session
Alumni Hall
7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
AMEA Concert Session
Moody, Concert Hall
Pat Stegall, Presiding
Presentation of AMEA Honor Roll
Huntsville High School Band
David Spencer, Conductor
University of Alabama Singers
John Ratledge, Conductor
7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
All-State Jazz Band Rehearsal
Moody, 201
All-State Show Choir Rehearsal
Moody, 204
Alabama Honor Choir Rehearsal
Moody, Choral-Op Room
7:00a.m. – 7:50a.m. Leadership Assembly Breakfast
Hotel Capstone, Governor’s Room
8:00a.m.-9:00a.m.
ABA General Meeting
Chuck Eady, Presiding
Moody, Recital Hall
AVA Concert Session
R.F. Bumpus Middle School 7th Grade Choir
Sal Rodas, Conductor
John Carroll Catholic High School Honors Chorus
Lee Wright, Conductor
Moody, Concert Hall
Elem/Gen Interest Session
First Steps in Music: Vocal Development in the Early Years
John Feierabend, Clinician
BCC, Rast
Technology/AOA/CME C/HED Interest Session
What’s ew in Finale 2010?
Larry Marchese, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
8:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Exhibits Open
BCC, Sellers Exhibit Hall
All-State Jazz Band Rehearsal
Moody, 201
All-State Show Choir Rehearsal
Moody, 204
Alabama Honor Choir Rehearsal
Moody, Choral-Op Room
9:15a.m.-10:15 a.m.
ABA/CME C Interest Session
Terry Ownby, Clinician
Moody, Recital Hall
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Preparing the Young Band for Sightreading at Music Performance Assessment
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
9:15a.m.-10:15 a.m. AVA Interest Session
It's Time for Us to Teach Our Singers How to Read Music!
Betsy Cook Weber, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
Elem/Gen Interest Session
Literature, Storytelling and Music in the Classroom
Peter and Mary Alice Amidon, Clinicians
BCC, Rast
AOA Interest Session
Classroom Management Techniques
Anne C. Witt, Clinician
Moody, 258
HED Business Meeting
Mark Walker, Presiding Moody, 180
10:30a.m.-12:00 p.m.
AMEA General Session
Keynote Address – John Feierabend
Oak Mountain Middle School Advanced Symphonic Band
Jeff Atkins, Conductor
Moody, Concert Hall
12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
Phi Beta Mu Luncheon University Club
ASTA Luncheon Hotel Capstone
12:00 p.m.-1:15p.m. CME C Luncheon/Meeting
Wesley Student Center
1:30p.m.-2:30p.m.
ABA Concert Session
Baker High School Wind Ensemble
Sidney Dedeaux, Conductor
Moody, Concert Hall
AVA/ HED Interest Session
Why is my Choir so Flat? A Discussion About Choral Intonation
Erin Colwitz, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
Elem/Gen Interest Session
Teaching Traditional Dance and Singing Games to Children
Peter and Mary Alice Amidon, Clinicians
BCC, Rast
AOA Interest Session
A Rhythm a Week
Anne C. Witt, Clinician
Moody, 258
1:30p.m.-4:30 p.m. All-State Jazz Band Rehearsal
Moody, 201
1:30p.m.-4:30 p.m. All-State Show Choir Rehearsal
Moody, 204
Alabama Honor Choir Rehearsal Moody, Choral-Op Room
2:45 p.m. – 3:45p.m. ABA/CME CInterest Session
The First Ten Minutes: Developing Procedures
Elva Kaye Lance, Clinician
Hotel Capstone, Ballroom
AVA Interest Session
Maestro! Re-examining Conducting Gesture
Betsy Cook Weber, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham
Elementary/General Meeting
Sharon August, Presiding
BCC Rast
Alabama Jazz Educators Association Meeting
Sidney Dedeaux, Presiding Moody, 180
2:45 p.m. – 3:45p.m. AOA Interest Session
Viola for the Violinist
Dan Sweaney, Clinician Moody, 258
HED Performance Session I
Mark Walker, Presiding Moody, Recital Hall
4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. AVA Concert Session
Hueytown High School Concert Choir
Elizabeth Hearn, Conductor
Auburn University Chamber Choir
William Powell, Conductor Moody, Concert Hall
Technology/ABA/CME C Interest Session
Finale & SmartMusic: Tools to Transform the Performance Classroom
Larry Marchese, Clinician
BCC, Birmingham Room
Elem/Gen Interest Session
First Steps in Music: Movement Development in the Early Years
John Feirabend, Clinician
BCC, Rast
HED Performance Session II
Mark Walker, Presiding Moody, Recital Hall
5:00p.m.-6:00 p.m. Exclusive Exhibit Time
BCC, Sellers Exhibit Hall
6:00 p.m.-6:45 p.m.
Alabama Honor Choir Dress Rehearsal
Moody, Choral-Op Room
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
All-State Jazz Band Rehearsal
Moody, 201
All-State Show Choir Rehearsal
Moody, 204
AMEA Concert Session
Moody, Concert Hall
Pat Stegall, Presiding
Presentation of Awards
Alabama Honor Choir
Gregory Fuller, Conductor
Alabama Wind Ensemble
Ken Ozzello, Conductor
8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Elem/Gen Interest Session
Evening Community Dance
Peter and Mary Alice Amidon, Clinicians
BCC, Rast
9:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. President’s Reception
Hotel Capstone, Governor’s Room
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Saturday, January 23, 2010
8:00 a.m.-8:30 a.m. ABA Board Meeting
Chuck Eady, Presiding
Moody, 180
8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. HED Breakfast
Mark Walker, Presiding
8:00 a.m.-10:00a.m. All-State Show Choir Dress Rehearsal Moody, Concert Hall
8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. ABA General Meeting
Chuck Eady, Presiding
Moody, Recital Hall
9:15 a.m. – 10:15a.m. ABA Interest Session
Reading Band
Randall Coleman, Clinician
Moody, Choral-Opera Room
9:15 a.m. – 10:15a.m. AVA General Meeting
Damion Womack, Presiding
Moody, Recital Hall
10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. AMEA Concert Session
All-State Show Choir
All-State Jazz Band
Moody, Concert Hall
12:30 p.m. ACDA Board Meeting
Moody, 173
1:00 p.m.
AMEA Governing Board Meeting
Pat Stegall, Presiding
BCC, Cavalier Room
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1.Can you tell us what teaching and leadership experiences you have that you feel would support you as Southern Division President? As a music educator I have taught high school chorus, elementary general music, chorus and beginning band and middle school band. In July of 2001, after 25 years of teaching, I became the director of the Arts in Basic Curriculum (ABC) Project at Winthrop University, in Rock Hill South Carolina (SC). My love of MENC and SC MEA over 33 years as an arts educator will help me better listen and communicate with all music teachers. The Music Education Journals, the SC MEA, Southern Division, and National MENC Conferences always gave new creative ideas, much needed support, and inspiration. It is important that it does the same for all MENC members. In 1998, I was selected the SC Teacher of the Year. For a year, I worked with District Teacher Forums, high school students groups interested in becoming teachers, gave presentations across the state and assisted in monitoring all education bills at the SC Legislature. It was not only a year of collaborating and building consensus with many education groups, students and legislators, but also a year of educating everyone about the importance of the arts. We sang, played instruments, danced, acted and made art. Now as the ABC Project Director I work to help schools ad districts create strategic arts education plans to improve arts education. I assist them in locating and developing partnerships within the school, the district, parent groups, local artists, community organizations, and businesses that will assist in implementing the arts plan. The ABC Project coordinates the SC Council of Arts Education Presidents (CAEP). It is made up of the arts education associations of SC. They meet bi-annually to network, share ideas and work on initiatives. They group started by writing a position paper on arts education entitled, “Where We Stand.” The next issue the group addresses was the recruitment and retention of arts teachers.
2. What things, in particular, would you like to accomplish if you were Southern Division President?
The Southern Division of MENC is a large and extremely diverse group. I hope to be a sounding board through contact with the State Presidents and Executive Directors. A main priority would be to communicate regularly with the state presidents. Listening to thoughts and concerns is crucial, and getting constant feedback on all issues is essential. Communication through email conference calls, webinars and social networking can keep the lines of communication open. It is also important that we assist our members in becoming active participants and proactive advocates for music education at the state, divisional and national levels. With states in fiscal crises, heavy emphasis on high-stakes testing, the need for schools and districts to make Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) every member needs to be proactive! This is a necessity if we are to provide every student access to a comprehensive, sequential
music education. We also need to grow the next generation of music educators and music leaders. From encouraging high schools students, mentoring new teachers and identifying and training emerging leaders to take up the gauntlet of music education we must assist in continuing to provide quality music teachers for our students.
3. How do you see your roll as Southern Division President – Elect and Immediate Past President?
As Southern Division President – Elect, I will vigilantly listen, take careful notes, and be an extra set of ears for the President. I hope through active listening, I will understand the division presidents’ ideas, needs and concerns. It is extremely important that I understand the needs of each state. As immediate Past President I would assist the president in any way possible. I can assist as the historical memory for the way things were done. Help explain the history of the past years. I also hope to better inform the President of the special contributions each state has made to the Southern Division.
4. What do you feel is the vital role that ME C plays in music education today?
MENC has the means to be the leader in policy change through music advocacy, a source of comprehensive materials and resources for new music teachers to retired music teachers, a means to hold up music educators and celebrate their many contributions and the vehicle for the all members to feel they have a voice.
5. What do you feel is the vital role that the Southern Division plays in music education in the states of the Southern Division?
It is important to listen to and promote the individual states in the Southern Division. It is important to discuss individual state’s concerns and ideas. The knowledge base from the eleven can be invaluable when trying to solve problems and expand music education. It is their division!
6. What new and different directions do you feel ME C should take?
I think MENC has a good start in building quality partnerships and coalitions, but it needs to be expanded. Forming partnerships and coalitions with groups such as the National Parent Teacher Association, the National Dance Education Organization, or even the International Reading Association will enable us to find common ground, infom associations and organizations of the importance of music and arts education and learn in depth about their associations and organizations. I know that MENC has Music Educator Recruitment, Preparation, Retention, and Professional Development as a Strategic Direction under Goal One, but I would like to see it fully implemented.
7. What new and different directions do you feel the Southern Division should take?
I think the Southern Division should also work to find common ground with other state and regional arts associations and organizations and various education organizations. It is a chance to educate and learn. It would also be helpful to learn what the Southern Division states are doing about teacher recruitment and retention and advocacy. Are there inexpensive ways such as virtual education seminars
to better train teachers to be advocates, or assist new teachers in classroom management, or arts integration? There are so many talented members of the Southern Division States we could train fleets of advocates and ease many new teachers’ panic attacks.
8. What level of importance do you place on communication with the membership of the Southern Division and how to accomplish it? This is the membership’s division. It is important to listen both ways. Two way communications through emails, social networks, and focus groups are essential for members to be heard. It is my job to listen to the grass roots and respond.
9. What level of importance do you place on communication with the state presidents in the Southern Division and how would you accomplish that communication?
The presidents are the eyes, ears and backbone of their state associations. They know what is happening in each music division within their state. It is therefore crucial to communicate in many different ways. Communications through emails, conference calls, social networks, webinars, can all be used. If a president has another form of communication they feel is better, I will try that. Open communication is the only way we can improve music education.
10. What issues or items do you feel the EB should deal with without the membership being involved?
The NEB can monitor national issues and then alert everyone if there are any changes. The NEB can also address policy issues as long at the division presidents are in communication with the state presidents. The division presidents are the voice for the states presidents. It is also important NEB must listen to the division presidents as they bring issues from the state presidents.
11. What issues or items do you feel the EB should deal with that the membership input would be essential?
Any large issue concerning music education or any huge change in MENC should always have membership input.
12. Other than what you have mentioned above, what personal skills do you have that are especially valuable to ME C?
Christine S. Fisher is the director of the Arts in Basic Curriculum (ABC) Project at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC. Prior to coming to Winthrop, she taught band, chorus, and general music at the elementary, middle and high school levels for 25 years. Selected as the SC Teacher of the Year in 1998, she traveled the state discussing the importance of arts education and monitoring education legislation. She has served on the Executive Board of the South Carolina MEA over ten years and is an active musician in the community orchestra and big band in Florence, SC. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education from UNC Pembroke and a Masters in Music Education from the University of South Carolina.
1. Can you tell us what teaching and leadership experiences you have that you feel would support you as Southern Division President?
I taught band for 16 years at all levels – beginning band, middle school and high school. My teaching also included considerable private teaching, as well as in the classroom, and music supervision for a school district. For the last eleven years, I’ve been in leadership positions with the Florida School Music Association and the Florida Music Educators’ Association and have built a coalition of state partners for advocacy on issues relating to music and arts education. Serving in that role, I’ve also attending the meetings of the SDMENC leadership for the last 9 years and watched the evolution and issues related to MENC and the NEB. My day job as the executive director of FMEA, FSMA and consultant to the Florida Art Education Association and Florida Network of Arts Administrators requires a broad knowledge of association procedures and management skills and an ability to cut through the layers of bureaucracy to the heart of an issue. Many of the elements discussed below are primary issues of concern every day for our associations.
2.What things, in particular, would you like to accomplish if you were Southern Division President?
a. Building a more cohesive communication system between the southern division states – especially among the leadership.
b. Assisting MENC to focus more clearly on the goal of advocacy and to eliminate the duplication of services that states already provide.
c. Seeking ways that MENC can increase revenue apart from continually raising member dues.
3.How do you see the role of Southern Division President-Elect and Immediate Past President?
What could be accomplished if you were in those positions?
It is essential to have the president-elect and immediate past president integrally involved in all issues. As the SDMENC is served on the NEB by two positions (president and immediate pastpresident), it is important for the president-elect to be conversant with all issues being addressed. A regularly involved “executive committee” model is one that has been most effective for my “day job” associations.
4. What do you feel is the vital role that ME C plays in music education today?
While many state organizations are very effective with their own legislatures, the chief goal for any national association is usually a national perception and federal legislation. My desire is for MENC to become more effective at building relationships with members of Congress and their staffs so that federal legislation can be adapted, where possible, to create mechanisms at the state level more friendly to music education. I also believe it is possible for MENC to be more creative in its approach to seeking ways to enhance music and arts education via a variety of federal bills (not just the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (NCLB) – although that is of primary importance).
5. What do you feel is the vital role that the
Southern Division plays in music education in the states of the Southern Division?
The Southern Division is only as effective as the communication and relationships between the state associations. As educational policy tends to proliferate and migrate between state legislatures, it will be helpful for the states to know what is moving in other states. It is always helpful for the associations to be able to compare practices in a variety of like functions – such as all-state ensembles/auditions, performance assessments (ensemble and individual), and adjudicator training and looking creatively at involving more students of the general population in music. As related to MENC, it’s also helpful for the division to speak with a united voice as much as possible.
6. What new and different directions do you feel ME C should take?
While MENC has adopted a primary focus related to advocacy, my hope is that will become a reality based on obtaining professional government representation and developing organizational structures to support that goal. As mentioned above, it is essential that the organization not be so dependent on member dues for revenue. In terms of policy, education is changing rapidly and MENC needs to be more visible and effective in representing the need for the music in the curriculum for all students.
7. What new and different directions do you feel the Southern Division should take?
As the state associations become more technology conversant, the division may be able to reach out to more members and plan cross-state initiatives that allow for seminars/workshops to be conducted longdistance. Associations bring a knowledge base – and the primary mission should be to utilize that more effectively. Between the states, there are outstanding conductors and master teachers in a variety of levels and musical disciplines that could be shared given new technologies.
8. What level of importance do you place on communication with the membership of the Southern Division and how would you accomplish that communication?
This is the essential item! MENC has provided assistance in setting up “webinars” and as more regular communication occurs, greater ease with the technology and the ability to adapt will occur. State associations may also find ways that adapt easily to reach out between the leadership and members to be more effective. The main idea, however, is that communication with members and that the needs of the membership at the classroom level remain paramount.
9. What level of importance do you place on communication with the state presidents in the Southern Division and how would you accomplish that communication?
As indicated above, communication at all levels is essential. This is the only way there can be adequate exchanges between the division to the states and the division to the NEB. It is always an issue to connect eleven or more busy people together – but usually persistence is the answer. This is a “time” issue –
both for the division president and the state presidents and it’s necessary for both to allot sufficient time to represent issues of importance in both directions.
10. What issues or items do you feel the ational Executive Board should deal with without the membership being involved?
The best practice for associations is that the NEB can deal with operational issues (executive director and personnel policies, contracts, financial policies, etc.). Usually individual members are focused on their own campus, local, and state issues and have little interest in the detail of these issues if there is sufficient trust between the membership and the NEB.
11. What issues or items do you feel the EB should deal with that membership input would be essential?
Most members depend on their state association leaders to respond to MENC policy issues. The NEB needs to be certain that state leaders are informed of policy items in advance – so that opinions can be solicited. (This has been a recent innovation – and my hope is it will be continued.)
For most associations – state and national – the membership generally has direct involvement with elections and, sometimes, major policy initiatives. Given that the state associations have the most direct link to members, the best way to involve members is through state leaders (and the state associations). In this manner, members can be (and should be) tapped for committee service and/or input for MENC policy discussions.
Better policy discussion should take place at the MENC National Assembly, so state leaders have more direct input about policies that directly affect members.
12. Other than what you have mentioned above, what personal skills do you have that you feel will be especially valuable to ME C?
Colleagues who work regularly with me notice three elements: 1) that I am very goal oriented; 2) I work collaboratively; and, 3) that I am relentless about reaching the goal. Music education is my focus for issues related to legislation and I bring an intimate knowledge of how legislation is applied to school districts from both the state and federal levels. Although I’ve been out of the classroom for some years, my network of music supervisors and teachers helps keep me focused on classroom needs for the music educator.
In order to stimulate both interest and voting participation, Michael Combs, Editor of the Tennessee Musician sent these questions to the two candidates who have been nominated for President-Elect of the Southern Division. Their responses have been reprinted here with permission.
James PerryAMEA Conference
University of Alabama
January 21-23, 2010
All-State Orchestra Festival
University of Alabama
February 11-14, 2010
AMEA In-Service Conference/All-State Jazz Band
January 21-23, 2010 - University of Alabama
All-State Solo Festival
April 14, 2010 - Auburn University
District I
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District II
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District III
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District IV
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District V
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District VI
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District VII
All-State Band Auditions State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festival
District VIII
All-State Band Auditions
District Honor Band State MPA
Solo & Ensemble Festivall
All-State Band Festival
April 15-17, 2010 - Auburn University
Summer In-Service Conference
June 23-24, Hilton Garden Inn, Orange Beach
January 29-30.....................................Brewer High School
February 19-20...............................Bob Jones High School
February 24-26..............................................Huntsville HS
March 24-26......................................................Decatur HS
April 10..........................................Liberty Middle School
April 24............................................Hartselle High School
January 16..................................Jacksonville High School
March 26-27.................................................Gadsden State
February 24-26.........................Gadsden City High School
April 3 .........................................................................TBA
May 8..........................................Jacksonville High School
January 30...............................Muscle Shoals High School
February 19-20.................................Cullman High School
March 9-10.......................................Cullman High School
February 11-12.................................Florence High School
April 24 University of North Alabama
January 16....................................................................TBA
January 29-30...............................Homewood High School
February 23-25............................................................TBA
March 9-11..................................................................TBA
December 1..................................................................TBA
April 3..........................................................................TBA
May 8...........................................................................TBA
January 30........................................Echols Middle School
February 19-20.......................University of West Alabama
February 24-25...................Moody, University of Alabama
March 27..........................................Prattville High School
April 27.........................................Hillcrest Middle School
January 30..........................................Opelika High School
February 26-27..............Central High School, Phenix City
February 10-12...................................Opelika High School
March 6.................................. Auburn Junior High School
April 10................................................Trinity Presbyterian
January 16.......................................Davidson High School
March 16-19......................................Daphne High School
April 24......................................Alma Bryant High School
May 1...........................................................................TBA
January 30....................................................................TBA
TBA
February 24-25............................................................TBA
May 1...........................................................................TBA
VII
Fall Workshop - September 11-12, 2009 - Dawson Memorial Baptist Church, Birmingham
All-State Show Choir Auditions - October 1-3, 2009 - Birmingham
Honor Choir Screening - November 2-13, 2009
AMEA/Honor Choir/Show Choir - January 21-23, 2010 - UA Tuscaloosa
All-State Auditions - January 29- February 5, 2010
State Performance Assessment -March 22-24, 2010 - Birmingham
All-State - April 15-17, 2010 - Samford University, Birmingham
October 2 – AMEA Elementary Music Festival, Wright Center at Samford University
October 3 – AMEA/AL AOSA Fall Workshop with Sue Meuller, Greystone Elementary 9:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.
November 12-15 – AOSA National Conference, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
January 21-23 – AMEA In-Service Conference, Tuscaloosa
February 20 - AOSA Spring Workshop with Laurie Zentz 9:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.
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When I think about the current trends in education, specifically the lack of support for music education, I find that there is a commonality within our ranks that is contributing to this travesty. It is our lack of individual purpose or PHILOSOPHY. Many of us can talk about our advocacy for music education; however, we are not able to state our philosophy of music education. Take a minute to think how you would defend music education to the school board that is currently looking at eliminating band, chorus, orchestra, or elementary music in your county/district. What can you say that will make them think twice about the intrinsic and extrinsic value of learning about music? Yes, the extrinsic values are easily described. There are the tangible trophies, plaques, certificates, and performance venues (Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, etc.) that are outstanding “things” we can show the public. However, it is the intrinsic values that we must highlight and encourage our peers to passionately endorse and engender.
“The arts are an integral component of our educational system in developing the attitudes, characteristics, and intellectual capacities required for students to participate successfully in today’s society and economy. The arts teach selfdiscipline, reinforce self-esteem, foster thinking skills and creativity, and promote teamwork and cooperation. Most notably, though, the arts are important in and of themselves in that they are a vital and vibrant part of our personal, social and cultural environment.” Dr. Shirley Neeley (Texas Commissioner of Education, 200407)
Dr. Neeley’s statement is both a strong advocacy statement and philosophical statement that is supported by the state of Texas. Another statement that is thought provoking is one made by Tim Lautzenheiser.
“Music accesses a part of the mind unique to every individual. It is a language unto itself; music can only be explained by
music. It is, quite literally, feeling described in sound.” Tim Lautzenheiser, Teaching Music through Performance in Band, vol. 1, (Chicago: GIA Publications, Inc. , 1997), 62.
These position statements by Lautzenheiser and Neeley are both magnificent and monumental in scope. If we all take this to be part of our philosophy, then we will encompass the core of what matters most… our students! We will help them realize their unique musical abilities that will impact their lives and will help continue to transform others through their like experiences through the performance of music.
We can find other great examples of philosophical statements throughout the country. Let me recommend that you search for the welcome address to freshman at Boston Conservatory, given by Karl Paulnack, pianist and director of the music division at Boston Conservatory. There are two statements from his speech that are especially meaningful to me. The first is, “…Someday at 8 PM someone is going to walk into your concert hall and bring you a mind that is confused, a heart that is overwhelmed, a soul that is weary. Whether they go out whole again will depend partly on how well you do your craft.” The second is, “If there is a future of peace for humankind, if there is to be an understanding of how these invisible, internal things should fit together, I expect it will come from the artists, because that’s what we do.”
“Teaching is a gift and a responsibility that one must take very seriously. An educator is a facilitator who brings together resources and opportunities enabling students to make their own discoveries through the unique process of music education. In addition to delivering instruction, the educator counsels, and mediates for the students. I believe it is imperative to create a sense of community, which allows mutual inquiry that engenders student learning. Music education is an interactive process that encourages all students to be independent/creative thinkers and this process validates them as a person who is not just a sponge or receptacle for information.” James J. Smisek, D.M.A “Three Critical Concerns” (paper presented at the AMEA Convention, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 10-12 January 2008), Smisek Personal Collections, Samford University, Birmingham.
The most important statement at your individual school is the one that you profess. You are the expert at your school and you are the one all others look to for defending music education! Take time to compose your philosophical statement that can be read to the school board, administration, or state board of education. Your statement should be a passionately conceived document that will convince the most hardened critic of the importance for music education. Carpe diem!
Jim Smisek is the Director of Bands and Chair of Instrumental Studies at Samford University.
For an aspiring young clarinetist in the South, late March was an enlightening time to be at Troy University in Troy, Alabama. Dr. Timothy Phillips, the clarinet professor at the John M. Long School of Music, hosted the Second Annual Troy University Clarinet Day on March 27-28, 2009. It involved a fine lineup of inspiring guest artists from across the United States. Sponsors included: Buffet Crampon, Canyes Xilema, Redwine Jazz and Vandoren Paris.
The event commenced on Friday evening with a recital in Troy University’s Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall. Troy faculty clarinetists Dr. Timothy Phillips and Dr. Katrina Phillips began the event by performing Mendelssohn’s Concert Piece No. 2 for two clarinets and piano.
Next to perform were the members of the “C-4” Clarinet Quartet from the Band of the United States Air Force Reserve from Warner Robins, Georgia. The ensemble included: MSgt Martha Garcia, MSgt (retired) David Garcia, TSgt Kara Frank, and TSgt Anna Andrew. They played works by Mendelssohn, Debussy, Uhl and others. Few could resist smiling at the sounds of the “Bordel 1900” from Histoire du Tango by Astor Piazzolla. To conclude the first half, they played the spirited Klezmer Wedding by Mike Curtis.
Benjamin Redwine’s portion of the program included French works for clarinet and piano by Poulenc and Debussy, as well as Ravel’s Pièce en forme da habanera, in which Redwine added his own personal touch. Lastly, the “C-4” Clarinet Quartet accompanied Redwine in his versatile playing of a medley (arr. by Dan Drew) of some of the best-known melodies of American jazz clarinetist Artie Shaw. As an encore, Redwine performed After You, Mr. Gershwin by Bela Kovacs.
Over sixty clarinet students from Alabama, Florida and Georgia registered on Saturday to play in a large clarinet choir and attend informative lectures. Dr.
Timothy Phillips captivated students during the clarinet choir rehearsals with his kind demeanor and sensitive pacing as the group worked toward a musically fulfilling performance. His sound rehearsal and conducting techniques were highly effective in this pursuit. Students also benefited from the guest artists who opted to play along. The repertoire represented many eras in music history providing opportunity for contextual learning. For example, a work by Carl Maria von Weber lead to discussion of the composer’s numerous contributions to the solo clarinet repertoire; and the work Three Renaissance Madrigals (arr. by David Marlatt) lead to learning about style from an era when the clarinet (as we know it today) had not yet been developed. The two other pieces this group worked on, and later performed, included: a lighthearted rag by Scott Joplin (which had great appeal to the players and audience alike), and a march by Sousa (which was fitting for a performance at Troy University, a school with a strong band heritage).
Clinics were interspersed between clarinet
Katrina PhillipsIn the afternoon, the “C-4” Clarinet Quartet provided an informative workshop on becoming a better chamber musician. They discussed and modeled techniques for acquiring precision in ensemble playing. Next, the “C-4” members invited a college clarinet quartet from Troy University (Christina Banks, Casey Fariss, Tiffany Reeves and Kathryn Zehner) to perform and receive feedback.
Between rehearsals and clinics, students could explore displays of mouthpieces, reeds and instruments. Montgomery based Capitol Music brought a variety of clarinets for trial. Students were also given a chance to talk to the guest artists over breaks and lunch (which was provided for all attendees and artists).
An evening concert was the culmination of the event, allowing the audience (consisting of parents, family, band directors, private teachers, as well as Troy faculty) to witness the achievements of all involved. The Troy University Clarinet Choir began this concert. A highlight was Fool’s Dance by Kristen L. Denny with its vivacious quality. Next, the college group
choir rehearsals. In the morning, Benjamin Redwine intrigued students with his philosophy of optimal clarinet sound production and provided practicing tips for improving clarinet fundamentals. He also pointed out the importance of proper adjustment of clarinet keys for best response and tuning.
welcomed Redwine, who demonstrated his adept improvisational skill as soloist for the jazz standard All of Me (arr. by R. Barrett). Lastly, the large Clarinet Day Clarinet Choir performed their selections with great success and left all involved looking forward to the Third Annual Troy University Clarinet Day of 2010.
P.O. BOX 11513
Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu Bandmasters Fraternity is happy to offer compact discs of the all-state exercises. These CD’s are prepared by competent university teachers and offer an excellent study guide for the all-state audition. Individual CD’s are $15.00. Complete sets of 14 CD’s are $175.00. Please return this order form with check or school purchase order to the above address. For information, contact D. D. Black - Phone: (334) 281-2249 Fax: (334) 288-3595 Email: w4prf@charter.net
Postal rates have increased but the price remains the same. ( ) Band Director ( ) Student
Name______________________________________________________________________________________________________
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School______________________________________________________Home Phone ( ) _____________________________
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Note: Please indicate number of each selection below:
JUNIOR HIGH RECORDINGS
( ) Set of 14 Junior High CD’s - $175.00 (Individual CD’s are $15.00 each)
( ) Jr. High Piccolo( ) Jr. High Bass Clarinet( ) Jr. High Trombone
( ) Jr. High Flute( ) Jr. High Alto Saxophone( ) Jr. High Euphonium BC/TC
( ) Jr. High Oboe( ) Jr. High Tenor Saxophone( ) Jr. High Tuba
( ) Jr. High Bassoon( ) Jr. High Trumpet( ) Jr. High Percussion
( ) Jr. High Bb Clarinet( ) Jr. High French Horn*Alto Sax may be used for baritone sax practice.
SENIOR HIGH RECORDINGS
( ) Set of 14 Senior High CD’s - $175.00 (Individual CD’s are $15.00 each)
( ) Sr. High Piccolo( ) Sr. High Bass Clarinet( ) Sr. High Trombone
( ) Sr.. High Flute( ) Sr. High Alto Saxophone( ) Sr. High Euphonium BC/TC
( ) Sr. High Oboe( ) Sr. High Tenor Saxophone( ) Sr. High Tuba
( ) Sr. High Bassoon( ) Sr. High Trumpet( ) Sr. High Percussion
( ) Sr. High Bb Clarinet( ) Sr. High French Horn*Alto Sax may be used for baritone sax practice.
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