ELECTIONS 2024 President-Elect Candidate Holly MacDonell

ELECTIONS 2024

President-Elect

Holly MacDonell CMEA Vice President

Holly MacDonell grew up in Orange County, California performing viola in school ensembles and for the Orange County Youth Symphony, and during the summer at music camp. After high school, Holly moved to Northern California to attend Humboldt State University where she obtained Music Education and Literature degrees and her single subject music teaching credential.

After receiving her credential, Holly moved to Northeastern Oregon to teach K-12 general music and band for two years. Holly also performed, and was Assistant Conductor with, the Inland Northwest Musicians community orchestras and choirs based in Pendleton, OR.

Holly moved back to Humboldt County in 2008 and has taught K-8 music in before-, during- and after-school programs. Holly works with her local section’s festivals as chairperson of the North Coast’s Solo and Ensemble Festival and their All County Music Festival’s Junior String Orchestra. Currently she teaches K-8 general music, strings, ukulele, and music technology at Fieldbrook School, where she also presides over the School Site Council.

Holly is a Past President of CMEA’s North Coast Section and the current Vice President on CMEA’s State Board. Her experience on CMEA’s Board of Directors has nourished Holly’s inspiration and strengthened her determination to bring the highest quality musical experiences to every student from one end to the other of our diverse state.

Holly performs viola and violin for groups all over the North Coast, where her colleagues depend on her leadership, including Eureka Symphony, All Seasons Orchestra, Symphony of the Redwoods, and a new chamber group, Bach On! She also enjoys experimenting with synths, loops, and DAWs. Holly states:

I am dedicated to advancing music education in California, to ensure that every student across California has access to the highest quality musical experiences.

I am acutely aware of the transformative power of music and its ability to foster creativity, collaboration, and personal growth. As a Past President of CMEA’s North Coast Section and the current Vice President on CMEA’s State Board, I have had the privilege of being actively involved in shaping the future of music education in our diverse state. Together, CMEA strives to create a California where every student is encouraged to realize their potential through the pursuit of their creative passions. By advocating for comprehensive music programs, equitable resources, and authentic learning opportunities, we aim to empower students from one end of our state to the other.

My primary goal is to foster an inclusive and empowering environment where students can thrive, irrespective of their backgrounds or circumstances. By supporting music educators, facilitating professional development, and championing the value of music education, CMEA can help empower the next generation to embrace their unique talents and unlock their boundless potential.