NATIONAL FEDERATION OF MUSIC CLUBS
Junior Keynotes Winter 2015 • Vol. 87, No. 2
Junior Composers Contest www.nfmc-music.org Visit the Competitions & Awards page for more information.
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W H AT ’ S I N S I D E
TA B LE OF CONTENTS
WINTER ISSUE, 2015 Vol. 87, No. 2
4 Staff Directory 5 President’s Message 6 NFMC Biennial Convention – Fargo, North Dakota 10 Festivals Bulletin 11 Festivals Report 14 Junior Chairman 15 Junior Composers 16 Theory Chairman 17 Editor’s Note / Rating Sheet Chairman 18 Dance Chairman 19 American Music / President’s Cup Winner 20 Summer Programs
A DV ER T I S ERS’ I ND E X 2 Willis Piano Music 3 Clavier Companion 5 MTNA 13 Hal Leonard 15 NFMC Junior Composers Contest
22 Junior State Convention News
18 NFMC 58th Biennial Convention Fargo, North Dakota
23 National Music Week
24 Tish Rogers
24 Scattered Notes
24 Noteworthy Publications
26 Imagination Nook / Do You Hear What I Hear?
Winter 2015
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JUNIOR KE YNOTES 3
S TA F F D I R E C T O R Y
NFMC Junior Keynotes Directory National Federation of Music Clubs, Inc. • Chartered by the Congress of the United States (ISSN 0022-6629) HEADQUARTERS
National Federation of Music Clubs 1646 W. Smith Valley Road Greenwood, IN 46142 317-882-4003 Fax 317-882-4019 email: nfmc@nfmc-music.org www.nfmc-music.org President Carolyn C. Nelson 1 2nd Street South #5-402 Fargo, ND 58103 Phone: 701-235-5161 Mobile: 701-238-4053 nelson1125@gmail.com
No./So. Central/Western Regions: Jan Hansen, Chairman 101 Rio Mesa Drive Grants Pass, OR 97527 541-956-1659 jhansen3536@gmail.com
Joyce Walsh Award Anita Blackmon, Chairman 1101 S. Ricky Road Kennett, MO 63857 573-888-3998 abblackmon@att.net
Claire Ulrich Whitehurst Piano Solo Award Claire Frances Whitehurst, Chairman Coral Gate, 3360 SW 18th Miami, FL 33145 305-445-2128
Junior Club Rating Mary Thomason, Chairman 130 Creekside Drive Boerne TX 78006 mary@icanlearnmusic.com
Stillman Kelley/Byrum Nathalie Steinbach, Chairman 15 Mount Vernon Avenue Fredericksburg, VA 22405 540-368-6352 ymfred@earthlink.net
Mary Alice Cox Award Matt Miller, Chairman 13819 W. National Avenue New Berlin, WI 53151 262-786-0487, Ext. 743 mattmillerbass@aol.com
Wendell Irish Viola Award Dr. George R. Keck, Chairman 421 Cherry Street Arkadelphia, AR 71923 870-246-5076 keckg@obu.edu
Music for the Blind Awards Lee Ann Cummings, Chairman 146 W Pinebrook Drive Brandon MS 39047 601.992.9330 cummings-lee28@att.net
Dance Gay Dill, Chairman 814 South Second Street Atwood, KS 67730 785-626-9434 gdill1@att.net
Improvisation Dr. Leon Whitesell, Chairman 5117 NW 161st Street Edmond, OK 73013 405-715-1636 lwhitesell2@cox.net
Festivals Bulletin Sandra Preysz, Editor/Chairman 2174 E. Loisdale Drive Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121 801-944-1808 sandrapreysz@msn.com
Theory Dr. Cherisse Miller, Chairman 6221 Yorkshire Dr. Columbia, SC 29209 803-783-0657 rissey88@gmail.com
Thelma A. Robinson Ballet Award Judy Barger Edgell 4023 Hazelridge Road, NW Roanoke, VA 24012 540-563-4782 jbarger1234@cox.net
Lynn Freeman Olson Composition Awards James Schnars, Chairman 331 Cleveland Street #804 Clearwater, FL 33755 727-400-4305
Festival Cup Award Gloria Lien, Chairman 6738 W Kimberly Way Glendale, AZ 85308 623-561-2989 Gloria.hope.lien@gmail.com
Junior Division Linda D. Lind, Chairman 8905 Longmead Court Burke, VA 22015 703-569-0014 linda.lind@cox.net
Festivals Jodie J. Jensen, Chairman 5475 Flag Way Colorado Springs, CO 80919 719-262-0394 jodiejens@yahoo.com
Junior Keynotes Magazine Pat Grantier, Editor 107 W. Avenue A. Bismarck, ND 58501 701-222-0970 patg@bis.midco.net Summer Music Camps Odee Maier, Chairman 6292 13th Circle South Fargo, ND 58104 701-280-2437 odmaier@cableone.net
Heather Rathnau, So. Cent. Chairman 6639 Sutters Creek Trail Missouri City, TX 77459 281-208-3799 hrhr308@earthlink.net Lisa Smith, SE Chairman 3774 Barbizon Circle S. Jacksonville, FL 32257 904-886-4188 lcspiano@hotmail.com Linda Maurhoff, NE chairman 203 Downieville Road Valencia, PA 16059 724-625-1761 Lindamaurhoff@consolidated.net
Advertising Jennifer Griffin, Chairman 1646 W. Smith Valley Road Greenwood, IN 46142 Phone: 317-882-4003 Mobile: 317-771-5369 Fax: 317-882-4019 jenniferk@nfmc-music.org National Music Week Essay Mary Ellen Ulmer, Chairman 168 East Branch Road Mercer, PA 16137 724-946-2877 ulmerme@hotmail.com NE, SE Regions: Julianne Edwards, Chairman 11907 Springfield Lane Apt. Bldg. 23 Fishers, IN 46038 561-613-7237 jmedwards103@gmail.com
Peggy Radmer, NC Chairman 1930 Sunnyside Drive Waukesha, WI 53186 262-547-2607 Pegs88keys@wi.rr.com Debbie Wiser, Western Chairman 8412 N. Rainbow Vista Prescott Valley, AZ 86315 928-772-6931 djwiser@gmail.com
Junior Composers Karen Bourne, Chairman 397 Riviera Circle Dakota Dunes SD 57049 712-274-7284 kjbourne@cableone.net
Martha Marcks Mack Junior Vocal Award Naomi Sanchez, Chairman 671 Ashbury Street San Francisco, CA 94117 415-378-1447 Knsanchez@hotmail.com Lana M Bailey Piano Concerto Award Dee Blaser, Chairman 4404 Heritage Drive Lawrence, KS 66047 785-843-8776 dblaser@sunflower.com
Marilyn Caldwell Piano Solo Award Marilyn Caldwell, Chairman 2011 St. Francis Street Kennett, MO 63857 573-888-5274 mcaldwell6@att.net Periodicals Connie Randall, Chairman PO Box 522 Kaufman, TX 75142-0522 248-921-7032 connierandall@yahoo.com
Angie Greer Music in Poetry Contest Dr. Marie Speece, Chairman PO Box 1 Union Grove, NC 28689 704-539-5243 mariespeece@yadtel.net
The National Federation of Music Clubs is a tax-exempt, non-profit philanthropic and educational organization dedicated to music education and promotion of the creative and performing arts in America since 1898. The Federation was designated on the Official Roster of the United Nations in 1949, the only music organization thus accredited as a NonGovernmental Organization (NGO), and was chartered by the U.S. Congress on August 9, 1982. The mission of the Federation is to support and develop American music and musicians.
4 JUNIOR KE YNOTES
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Winter 2015
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Memo from the President by Carolyn C. Nelson
Our juniors are preparing for festivals and some are applying for our NFMC or local club awards. You will be reading about some of our winners in this issue of Junior Keynotes. Have you ever visited any of the music centers where we have awards? Each is unique but the students enjoy the opportunities provided to them. Yes, there are many other excellent summer music opportunities, NFMC just doesn’t have endowed awards at those places. We certainly would entertain proposals to set up additional award endowments. There is a long article in this issue about preparing for the festival online program implementation. I advise that you read it carefully and that states get organized so that it works well. There will be an opportunity for individual instruction on the system at the Fargo Convention. If you have a creative writer in your junior club, please encourage him/her to enter the National Music Week essay contest. That deadline is soon and the theme is “Music…
JoininUs
Heartbeat of the Soul.” That is also the theme of the Fargo Convention. If North Dakota is the 50th state on your Visit America list, you will want to attend the 58th Biennial convention in Fargo, ND, June 16-20, 2015. Take some extra days and see the vast prairies, the badlands, some outdoor musicals, the new state Heritage Center or just relax in the land of nice clean air. I hope to see some new faces at our celebration. Check the Directory page of this issue to find my new mobile cell number; please delete the one you previously used as it doesn’t exist anymore. Have a very happy 2015!
NFMC’s 32nd President
Lady Jeanne Galway Sir Jameands Galway
Evening Recital
Evening Recital
Lang Lang
Canadian Brass
Ann Schein
Scott McBride Smith
For the 2015 MTNA National Conference Advanced Piano Master Class
Evening Recital
Visit www.mtna.org For More Details
Intermediate Piano Master Class
#MTNAinVegas
Winter 2015
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JUNIOR KE YNOTES 5
FARGO
NORTH DAKOTA NFMC 58 TH BIENNIAL CONVENTION | JUNE 16-20, 2015
Music... Heart beat On behalf of the North Dakota Fe deration of Musi members to atten c Clubs, I wish d the 2015 NFM to extend an inv C Convention in itation to all Fargo, North Da We are planning kota. a fun-filled week of mu sic and entertainmen the history of the t that will includ Red River Valle e a presentation y, which is where artists, handbell on Fargo is located, choirs, string gro experience music ups, and much mo by jazz re. A tour will includ e a trip to the Fa rgo Theatre where which is the large you will hear the st organ between Mighty Wurlitz Seattle and Minn er Organ silent movie) the eapolis, (we’ll ev Scandinavian M en throw in a sho use um an rt d a Stave Churc one in Norway, h, and the two major which is an exact colleges in the are replica of the a, North Dakota Fargo is a lively Sta te University, an , cultural comm d Concordia. unity with a varie museums, and art ty of things to see studios in histor and do. We have ic do wn unique shopping town. Restaura Mexican, Thai an , restaurants, nts range from sim d many others. ple to elegant, e.g Or you can enjoy ., sushi bars, Ita the many coffee lian, houses or tour on e of our winerie From pioneer vil s in the area. lages and Vikin g ships to candy – Fargo has it all stores and an ind . You may want oor ferris wheel to view the celeb Moorhead Conv rity Walk of Fame ention and Visit at the Fargoors Bureau in Fa have the Roger rgo . For the sports Maris Museum enthusiasts we ho use d at West Acres Mall from the hotel an located across the d the Maury Wills street Museum locate how about a trip d at Newman Ou to the zoo? tdoor Field. Or, You will experie nce a warm welco me to the North Fargo has a reputa Country which tion for being a is very diverse. friendly city and open arms. Man always welcome y people who mo s visitors with ve he re never want to lea “think” about lea ve – well, they ma ving when the the y rmometer drops will be gone wh be low zero. We pro en you arrive! mise the snow If you are plann ing to extend yo ur stay, you may Canyon, the Ba want to drive we dlands, or visit M st to the Painted edora and take in which is dedicate a western-style d to the legacy of outdoor musical Am eri ca’ s 26th President, and the time he spent in the Badla Theodore Roose velt, nd s of the Dakota to do in our great Territory. Wha state, it will be a tever you decide memorable time. you to North Da We look forward kota and we hope to welcoming your stay will be a fun one.
Vivian J. Acuff
President, NDFM C
6 JUNIOR KE YNOTES
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Winter 2015
BUREAU www.fa rgomoorhead.org
So u l
PHOTOS COURTE SY FARGO-MOORH EAD CONVENTIO N AND VISITORS
Dear NFMC Fri ends,
of the
OFFICIAL CALL NFMC 58 TH BIENNIAL CONVENTION | JUNE 16 - 20, 2015 | HOLIDAY INN, FARGO, ND AN OFFICIAL NAME BADGE IS NECESSARY FOR ATTENDANCE AT EVERY NFMC BIENNIAL CONVENTION FUNCTION. Full Registration $100.00 - Entitles the registrant to a program book, admittance to all open meetings and programs, evening concerts and receptions. Daily Registration $50 - Entitles the registrant to a program book and admittance to all open activities for a single day/evening. Student and Junior member Full Registration $25. Junior Day registration $25 - This is a one day registration for Saturday activities only.
American Express, Diners Club, Discover, MasterCard or Visa credit cards. Group rates per night plus tax: $119 for king/ double queen room. Check in is 4:00pm; check out is 11:00 am. Conference rates are available for 3 days prior or 3 days following on a space available basis. The Holiday Inn Fargo participates in the IHG Rewards Club program.
PARKING AND AIRPORT SHUTTLE
Registration hours: Tuesday, June 16, 1:00pm -5:30pm; Wednesday – Friday, 8:00 am-2:00 pm.
There is complimentary hotel parking. The hotel offers a free shuttle from the airport. On arrival, call 701-282-2700 and ask for airport shuttle service. The shuttle usually stops to the right of the main airport entrance door. The North Dakota Hospitality group will usually have someone at the airport to meet arriving Federation guests.
ATTENDANCE
HOTEL AMENITIES
No charge for an official name badge for a single meal function.
All sessions except for the executive committee meetings are open to all registrants. Each state is encouraged to have at least one representative attend each session. The business meeting of a division or committee is for official business and observers can attend but the chairman will control participation. There will be multiple sessions in most time slots to fit the interests of the attendees.
BOARD ATTENDANCE
(NFMC Bylaws, Article VI, Section 2C): An unexcused absence from more than one Board session shall be considered a resignation. Board members are asked to inform the recording secretary if they must request an excuse for an absence. The excuse must be received before the conference starts.
NFMC CONFERENCE LOCATION HOLIDAY INN FARGO 3803 13 Ave S, Fargo, ND Phone 1-701-282-2700
Group Block Name: 2015 NFMC Convention Hotel Reservation cutoff date: 5:00 pm on May 15, 2015. Each person is responsible for making his/ her reservation. Call 1-701-282-2700, ask for reservations. If special services are required, please mention them at the time you make the reservation. The negotiated rate will be honored after May 15, 2015 only if standard rooms are available. The hotel accepts
All rooms will have complimentary Internet; there is also a fitness center and pool with water park. Your room will have an ironing board, hair dryer, alarm, coffee pot, cable television. Safety deposit box is available at front desk.
HOTEL RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
There is a restaurant and lounge in the hotel as well as a coffee shop that sells gifts, snacks and beverages. There are numerous restaurants nearby and a grocery store across the street.
SHOPPING AND ACTIVITIES
There is a large regional shopping mall across the street and several smaller strip malls nearby. Check the Fargo-Moorhead Convention and Visitors Bureau website for other activities.
WEARING APPAREL
This is summer on the northern prairie. The hotel is air-conditioned. Comfortable business attire is expected to be worn at all sessions. The final dinner IS formal. State presidents will process with escorts in formal attire; individual pictures will be taken. For the Thursday tour, you may want to wear slacks and walking shoes. American Festival Chorus: White shirts or blouses, dark slacks or skirts, men wear dark ties.
VOTING CREDENTIALS
Credentials will be available from the NFMC registrar. You can send the application with your registration.
PROPOSED BYLAWS
Bylaw changes will be posted in MCM spring issue (30 day notice is required by the bylaws) and on the NFMC website.
MEMORIAL SERVICE CONTRIBUTIONS The memorial breakfast is Saturday morning. Memorial contributions should be sent to the national memorial chairman, Susan Tury, using the form that appears in this issue of MCM or online.
REPORTS
State presidents should bring a synopsis of the year’s activities for sharing at the Presidents Council. No reports will be read at general session meetings. However, all officers and chairmen are expected to have written reports prepared for publication in hard copy or on a CD. The deadlines are as follows: May 15 is postmark deadline for Committee chairmen to email or mail one page report to his/her Division chairman May 25 is postmark deadline for Division chairmen to send compilation of Division committee reports to NFMC Headquarters May 25 is postmark deadline for Officers to email or mail one-page report to headquarters. Reports will be compiled for all convention registrants to read at their convenience. CDs and hard copies will be available at the registration desk for convention registrants. Division Chairmen will be introduced at a general session; they will then introduce their committee chairmen in attendance. No reports will be presented but attendees are encouraged to obtain the packet of reports or the CD, attend Division meetings and meet with chairmen.
REMEMBER: 5:00 pm on May 15 is the deadline for hotel reservations. June 1 is deadline for registration and meal reservations.
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JUNIOR KE YNOTES 7
TENTATIVE
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS NFMC 58 TH BIENNIAL CONVENTION | JUNE 16 - 20, 2015 | HOLIDAY INN, FARGO, ND TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2015
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Registration
7:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Election of members-at-large
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Online festival training – See p.11 for special application.
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM
Investment committee
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Hospitality
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Registration
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Budget
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
General session
1:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Protocol
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
General session
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Finance
10:00 AM – 11:15 AM
Competitions and Awards
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Regional VPs old and new
10:00 AM – 11:15 AM
Memb & Educ Division
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Festival chorus rehearsal
11:15 AM – 11:30 AM
Pre luncheon concert
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Exec comm
11:30 AM – 1:15 PM
Rose Fay Thomas luncheon
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Sergeants at arms
1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Tour
5:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Dinner on own
5:00PM – 6:00PM
Festival chorus rehearsal
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Concert
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Richard Glazier presentation
8:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Reception
FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2015
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2015
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Registration
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Registration
8:30 AM – 9:25 AM
NEW Board meeting / election of officers
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Formal opening
9:30 AM – 10:25 AM
Business meeting
9:00AM – 9:30 AM
Concert
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Treasurers workshop
9:30AM – 9:50 AM
Conclusion of opening
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Music contests and loss
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
General session
10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Browse and Buy
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Presidents with Board
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
FAMA
10:00 AM – 11:15 AM
Board of Directors
11:00 AM – 12:15 PM
Festival chorus dress rehearsal
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Presidents Council
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Festival chorus concert
11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
Festival chorus rehearsal
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Finance Division
12:15 PM – 1:45 PM
Regional lunch
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Presidents Council
2:00 PM
Announce YA winners
5:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Line up and pictures
2:10 PM – 3:00 PM
General session
6:00 PM – 7:45 AM
Formal banquet
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Headquarters/Office
7:45 PM – 8:15 PM
Installation of officers
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
American Music Division
8:15 PM – 9:15 PM
Final concert
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Student Division
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Farewell reception
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Arts Division
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Festival committee
4:00 PM – 4:25 PM
Nominee meet and greet
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Bylaws
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
YA comm
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Public Relations Div
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Junior Division
8:00 PM – 9:15 PM
Concert - Young Artists, 2015-2017
9:15 PM – 10:00 PM
Reception
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Winter 2015
SATURDAY, JUNE 20, 2015 8:00 AM
Registration
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Memorial breakfast
9:00 AM – noon
Junior Day
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
NEW Board & Exec
1:00 PM
Adjourn
ACTIVITY & MEAL RESERVATION NFMC 58 TH BIENNIAL CONVENTION | JUNE 16 - 20, 2015 | HOLIDAY INN, FARGO, ND The NFMC Conference registration fee does not include meals or tours. Tickets for meal functions and activities must be ordered in advance; a packet of tickets will be held at the NFMC Registration Desk. Registration cancellations cannot be accepted after June 8. Neither meal nor tour refunds can be made after June 1 unless the tickets can be resold. A meal ticket is required for admittance to all meal functions. All persons attending the Conference are required to register; an official name badge is required for admittance to all events. There is no charge for an official name badge of a single meal function. Those attending more than one function (meal or presentation, workshop or concert) must register. Make check payable to: NFMC – Fargo 2015. Postmark deadline for ticket order is June 1, 2015. Mail check and registration to Jennifer Griffin, 1646 W Smith Valley Road, Greenwood, IN 46142.
REGISTRATION FEES:
Cost
X
Full Session Registration
$100
Daily Registration
# Tickets
=
TOTAL
x
=
$
$50
x
=
$
Junior or student member Registration
$25
x
=
$
Junior Day registration only (Saturday, June 20)
$25
x
=
$
$24 $20
X X
= =
$ $
June 18 Thursday Rose Fay Thomas Luncheon Filet of Walleye with salad
$30
X
=
$
June 18
$25
X
=
$
June 19 Friday Presidents’ Dinner 1. Grilled Salmon 2. Boursin Capped Filet Mignon 3. Butternut Squash Ravioli (vegetarian)
$42 $42 $35
X X X
= = =
$ $ $
June 20 Saturday Memorial breakfast
$15
X
=
$
CD of Convention Photographs
$25
X
=
$
MEAL/TOUR RESERVATIONS/PICTURE CD: June 17 Wednesday Regional Luncheon ( Region___________________ ) 1. Chicken Oscar with vegetable and rice 2. Pasta Primavera (vegetarian)
Thursday
Fargo-Moorhead tour (LIMIT 150 PEOPLE)
GRAND TOTAL: $
Name (Print Clearly)_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email address__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________ City___________________________________ State______ Zip Code__________ Federation Office/Chairmanship _________________________________________________________ Date of arrival____________________________________ Guest Name(s) for meals_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Circle any Special Dietary Needs:
Vegetarian
Kosher
Allergy (specify) __________________
Plan to sing with the American Festival Chorus? Yes ___ No____
Gluten free
other ______________
If yes, please indicate vocal part_______________________
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JUNIOR KE YNOTES 9
F E S T I VA L S B U L L E T I N
OnLine Festivals Management System Update by Sandra Preysz, NFMC Festivals Bulletin Editor/Chairman Last year, Alpha testing accomplished exactly what is was supposed to do. The basic system worked! Bugs were discovered in the tested features and they have been eliminated. The Alpha Testing was a success. Already I can feel that the system will alleviate so much stress from Festival Administrators and from individual teachers. Since we in the Salt Lake City Piano Festival Area are in the second year of using the system, our Festival Chairman and assistants no longer need to worry about verifying Festival registrations. When teachers in Salt Lake registered for Ensemble and Concerto Events in November, they did not need to stress about correlation of levels or partners in ensemble. Teachers did not need to verify that concerto registration was within the parameters of the solo levels. The Online
HELPFUL TIP! Learned from Alpha Testing Make sure teachers understand the purpose and function of the Google verification. In order for the teacher to be authorized for “NFMC Sign-In”, the e-mail listed in the teacher record must match exactly with the e-mail registered with Google verification. This is how we make sure the teacher is truly that teacher. Once gaining access, each teacher only sees the information for his/her individual studio. View the PowerPoint for further clarification and website links to register with Google. My e-mail, sandrapreysz@msn.com, is the e-mail I use to access the system. Notice it is not a “gmail” address. Contact me with questions.
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registration did its job and only gave them options that were in compliance with the rules. What a huge amount of work that has taken off of our shoulders as administrators. The JR3-3 and JR3-4 reports last year were a breeze. After the ratings were entered, I just clicked on the report option and it was done. (Well, it took awhile to calculate with over 1,000 entries, but I didn’t have to do it. I just left the computer to run and went off to do something else.) Success! This is the year of Beta Testing for the On-Line. We learned a lot through the Alpha testing and things have been streamlined. Beta testing should run more smoothly and be easier than it was the first time around for the Alpha testing groups . Everyone who participates in the Beta testing will be part of the team that develops this system. Beta testers will likely discover some more bugs in the system. They will also have suggestions as to how to improve it. This feedback is exactly what Beta testing is to accomplish. All Beta Testers need to approach this year in the spirit of development. It is not yet a system without flaws. Rather Beta testing is another year of working on a much improved system but there will still be ways to improve the system. We now have a separate website for the Online Program. https://www.nfmc-festivals. org (https means it is a secure site). This was no simple task and took about 6 months to complete.
THERE ARE TWO SECTIONS TO THE WEBSITE: NFMC SIGN-IN AND ONLINE MANUAL The NFMC Sign-In is only for those Federation members whose Area Festival has already uploaded their data. These teachers are authorized to access the system to register or check point history records for students in their studio. To date, there are only a tiny few in this category. If your Festival area has not yet submitted the point history data, there is NOTHING for you to see on this side of the website.
The Online Manual side of the website is available to everyone. It is growing with more pages being added each week. It also includes: • Excel spreadsheet for data preparation available for download • PowerPoint presentation providing a summary of the development to date. The big focus now is preparing local Festival areas to access the system. For most Festivals, the point history data is the challenge this year. I feel it is important to cut and paste from my article of a year ago because now it will make much more sense. I have added a few clarifications from our experiences this past year. Area Festivals should prepare the data from previous Festivals so it can be uploaded into the Online Festivals Management System. • A very detailed document is available on the NFMC Festivals website. The computer tech in your Festival area can access this from the OnLine Manual side of the website. The computer tech has the option to request a Microsoft Excel file or an XML schema file in specifically designed formats. The data must be entered in this special file. ANY alternations to the format in ANY way will make it so the data cannot be successfully uploaded. It will be a good idea to prepare a small sample of your data and submit it for verification that the formatting is being done correctly. That has worked well for a few areas because then they feel comfortable proceeding once their work has been reviewed. We do have one area Festival that started from scratch and successfully prepared the point history data without a glitch. Success the first time! The developer wants to make sure we understand this is NOT typical. Plan ahead and give yourselves plenty of time. The
F E S T I VA L S B U L L E T I N
normal time has been closer to 60-90 days because of the time needed to resubmit the data several times until it was in the proper format. • If it is determined that the computer tech cannot prepare the data in the format required, it will be worthwhile to hire someone locally to help prepare the data. There is probably another teacher or a parent who is trained in Excel and this person or persons can help. Because this expense will be the responsibility of each local area, each Festival should choose what works best for them. • IDEALLY, the data will include point histories dating back to include those students who will be 18 years of age next year. IDEALLY IDEALLY IDEALLY. Some areas may decide that they will start as if the first year of participation in the system is the first year period. Then, the Administrator of the Festival Area can enter previous point history data event by event, student by student, using the online. This can be a year long process or even longer if need be. It will be a tedious process but well worth it when it is finished. Until point history data has been loaded into the online system in one way or another, administrators will need to refer back to the records of previous years to calculate reports and check progression. • For those who do not yet have data in the computer, but are still dealing with a paper or card filing system of some type, a 3rd option is available. Data can be entered manually into the online system. The Festival Chairman or designated Administrator will need to become an “authorized person” in order to access the secure side of the website.
www.nfmc-music.org
NFMC Online Training Workshop June 16, 2015 • Fargo, North Dakota NFMC will be sponsoring a workshop to train Administrators for the Online Festivals Management System. The workshop will be Tuesday, June 16, 2015, the day prior to the start of the NFMC Convention in Fargo, ND. There is no fee for the workshop. THE WORKSHOP WILL BE A 90-MINUTE SESSION AND FOUR SESSIONS WILL BE OFFERED: 8:30am -10:00am 10:30am – noon 1:00pm – 2:30pm 3:00pm – 4:30pm The same material will be covered in each session. Attendance will be limited to 12 people per session and will require an application prior to the Convention. This signup will be open beginning February 1 and will close on April 30, 2015. Participants can find the link to the sign up on the NFMC website > Online Festivals Management System. Applicants will be accepted on a first come basis, but priority will be given to those with more computer qualifications and to those with large responsibilities in Festival Management. Our goal is to train at least one person from each state so they can, in turn, train those within their state. Each state should think carefully about whom to select to receive the training. This person or these persons should be quite computer literate so that they will be able to learn the details of the Online Festivals Management System from the administrative side. Participants should bring their own laptop. Either a Mac or PC works well but antique computers have proven problematic. Remember that the Online System cannot yet be accessed from an iPad or mobile device. A precondition to being confirmed for participation in the workshop is that point history data has been successfully imported into the online system. At a bare minimum, the point history for two studios needs to be imported for the participant’s area. This should be the administrator’s studio and one other so that the administrator can learn to impersonate. Please begin preparation ASAP as this has been a time consuming process for most everyone. After being confirmed, the following items will need to be completed prior to June 16 so the workshop can run smoothly. • Java 7 (or latest version) installed on computer. • e-mail registered with Google for identify verification • e-mail listed with nfmc-festivals.org website (making the person authorized for access) Because of the limited airline schedule into Fargo, those who will be flying to the Convention will probably need to plan on arriving on Monday, June 15th. Sandra Preysz, NCTM
Your source for all the latest NFMC news! Winter 2015
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F E S T I VA L S R E P O R T
Collaboration is Key for On-Line Festival Registration by Jodie Jensen, NFMC Festivals Chairman Much has been discussed, during the past few NFMC Conventions, regarding the OnLine Festival Registration program. Alpha Testing, Beta Testing, entering data and such are on the minds of our Festival participating Senior Club members, Area Festival Chairman and National Festival Committee. I can assure you, the NFMC Festiva Committee is deeply involved in the Beta Testing process and making suggestions and giving praise to the On-Line Registration developer. This is a massive project! Since nearly all of the members of the NFMC Festivals Committee act as Area and/or State Festival Chairman, we understand your concerns and want to help in any way possible to make the On-Line Festival Registration Program clear and as user-friendly as possible. Since we will be using the system, and will be involved in data entry process to prepare our Area Festivals to use the system, let me share a few words and phrases that will help you in your data entry preparation program.
COLLABORATION “The most valuable resource that all teachers have is each other. Without collaboration, our growth is limited to our own perspective.” - Robert John Meeham You might ask, “How can collaboration assist my Area Festival with preparing data for participation for the On-Line Festival Registration Program (OLFRP)?” The answer is quite simple. Collaboration between teacher members in your Area Festival will enable you to support one another in the learning/ information gathering/ entry process. Without your help and cooperation data will have a hard time being prepared to allow you and your students to be a part of the program. Most of our Area Festivals already have the data for Juniors on computer and ready for entry. However, it is the teacher information, I have found during my preparation of data for my Area Festival, that is so difficult to obtain. Assisting each other with the following items is essential:
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• Obtaining a Google gmail account • Looking over your own Junior and Adult entry data to ensure correct data • Giving quick responses to requests for information • Helping those without computer skills with learning the Registration process With your help, your Area Festival Chairman/On-Line Administrator/Data Entry Person will be able to build your Area Festival Data base and enable you to participate.
STARTING SMALL After some very frustrating days entering information for my own Area Festival, I placed a call to our OLFRP Chairman Sandra Preysz. I asked whether all the data from all previous years had to be entered. Sandra suggested starting small. Eventually, you will want to enter all your Area Festival data, but for your first year, start small and enter just the previous year’s Junior and Adult performance information. We want you to be a part of the program. Take small steps and you will avoid frustration in entering data.
ASK FOR HELP It sounds so simple to ask for help. But overuse of your Area Festival Chairman to honcho the entry process is not a good use of your Area’s resources. Add the job of OLFRP Administrator to one of your job titles and ask for a computer savvy individual to fill this position. It is the whole collaboration thing with a little bit of empathy/charity involved. No one, no matter how much free time they have on their hands, should feel they must do all the work for data entry. The work will take time and require second and third sets of eyes to review your Area Festival’s data. I asked for a reprieve as the Festival Chairman for this year to focus on entering data and act as the OLFRP Administrator. So far, my Area Festival Senior members have been stellar in assisting the process. Asking for help from others, paying for assistance or sharing the load can help during the data entry program.
I am not comfortable asking a teenager to handle the sensitive information for our Area Festival. There are college students who desire work for a few hours to earn funds to supplement their education who might be right for this kind of job. They will need some guidance and a privacy statement asking for confidentiality regarding your Area Festival’s information entry, but help can ease the burden on our Area Festival Chairman.
BE FLEXIBLE Flexibility is not one of my strong points. With Beta testing and continued use of the OLFRP, there will be changes to assist with speed, the look of the program and other tweaks to the system. Change is part of life and will be a part of building the OLFRP, so be flexible.
BEING A PART OF IT ALL During a call or two to Sandra, one of the most delightful stories about her own Area Festival’s Alpha Testing process was the gathering of teachers to learn a new way of doing things. There was positive energy in learning about the program. From my own experience, calls to our Area Festival teachers have given us a chance to connect, find out what is happening in each other’s musical life and share personal tidbits that connect us to one another. Those little bits of information help us to support each other. When we feel we are a part of something bigger than our own studios, we are able to be compassionate, kind and supportive during our Area Festivals. Since NFMC Festivals are non-competitive, we are then able to cheer each and every Junior in our Area Festival as they go on to achieve great things. We all want a whole and joyous experience for our Festival participants. The OLFRP, with the helpof all our Teacher/ Senior Club members, can be the start of something quite remarkable. Don’t think of the OLFRP as Mission Impossible. Think of it as a Mission Full of Possibilities.
JUNIOR CHAIRMAN
What Does This Mean?
Terms for Everyday Use in the Junior Division by Linda Lind, Junior Division Chairman Some questions have arisen about some of the terms we use in the Junior Division. Let’s see if we can simplify them. First let’s think about $$$ and eligibility for participation in Federation Festivals. NFMC BYLAWS – Article XII. FINANCE Section 4. DUE DATE A. PAYMENT DEADLINE. 2. All dues for Junior Organizations, Junior Individual, and Junior Associate Groups shall be received by the NFMC Headquarters and are due on or before February 1 annually.
JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP DUES – NFMC PORTION ONLY: • Organization Members. Federated Junior Organizations shall pay annual dues at the rate of 70 cents per capita on all classes of members, with a minimum of $15.00 for 1-20 members. Six dollars ($6.00) of this amount shall be used for a Junior Keynotes Subscription. For 21 members and above, the rate shall be $.70 per additional member. The total amount of the stated dues shall be paid to NFMC. Any additional dues a State may wish to establish for this membership is left to the discretion of the State. (Standing Rules J-9)
FESTIVALS/ELIGIBILITY (JUNIORS): • Each Junior Festival entrant must be a junior member of the National Federation of Music Clubs. (NFMC Festivals Bulletin – page 1 – Eligibility.) Group entrants may be associate members of the State and National Federations. (Standing Rules K-1)
FESTIVALS/ELIGIBILITY (ADULTS): • Adult entrants must be members of an active Student or Senior Club or be a Student or Senior Individual Member. (Standing Rules K-1)
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FESTIVAL FEES: • Required National and State fees must be paid to the area Festival chairman by each entrant for each event entered. In addition to the required NFMC entrance fee, a per capita “surcharge” may be added when needed to cover only Festival expenses, provided it is not combined with any other fees. After all expenses are paid, any remaining amount may be held towards the next year’s Festival expenses; may be applied to Junior Scholarships and Awards or used at the states’ discretion as approved by the states’ Board of Directors. Fees due to National must be paid before receiving Festival certificates and/or Festival cups. FESTIVAL FEES ARE SEPARATE FROM MEMBERSHIP DUES. (Standing Rules K-2)
What does this mean? Simply that the National deadline for payment of Junior Membership Dues is February 1 annually. There is no exception to this rule. It is binding by the NFMC Bylaws. Failure to comply with this rule means – NO PARTICIPATION IN FESTIVAL, NO CERTIFICATES, NO CUPS. This deadline does not affect a state’s deadline for payment of Festival Fees. That deadline may be set by the state depending on the timing of Festivals in that state.
ADDITION TO STANDING RULES: • A Standing Rule (K-2) was passed in June 2014 stating: “Teachers may not charge festival entry fees in excess of the amount established by the area festival chairman/ committee. State Boards may set a financial penalty for failure to comply.
What does this mean? Simply that Festival teachers who add any form of administrative fees must disclose those fees as such and not advertise or include them as Federation Festival fees. This is in compliance with the IRS rules governing 501(c)
(3) organizations. In other words, there can be no co-mingling of studio charges, etc. and Federation Festival Fees.
NFMC FESTIVAL CUP AWARD: • Any participant entering an event in the NFMC Festival, including Junior Composers Contest and Musicianship is eligible to enter the Festival Cup Award Plan. Participation is optional but points earned must be in conjunction with the NFMC Festivals. NFMC Cups are awarded on a point system based on Festival ratings. Gold cups are earned only in the Junior Division (up to age 19) and Silver Cup points are earned only in the Adult Division (age 19 and above). Points in each Division are totaled separately. (Standing Rules K-2) • The Federation Festivals Bulletin outlines, on page 8, the Accumulation of Points: When a total of 15 points has been earned, the First Cup is awarded. When each additional 15 points has been earned, the next larger cup is awarded.
What does this mean? Simply that only the official NFMC Cup may be awarded for Federation Festival. No other cups are acceptable and any points earned using cups other than the official ones may not be applied to any NFMC cup to include the 15 through 90 point cups.
SIMPLIFY?
My, oh my. The intent here was to put to rest some of the questions about membership, festival, and cups. The important thing is that we are all on the same sheet of music and can get on with the care and nurturing of our NFMC Juniors. They are the number one focus of all we are doing!
What does this mean? Simply that we have just one life. . . keep it simple. . . keep it musical.
JUNIOR COMPOSERS
Composition Corner by Karen Bourne, NCTM National Junior Composers Chairman Composition time again! Students submitted wonderful compositions last year. I am looking forward to seeing and hearing many more fine entries this winter and spring. If you are interested in applying for the contest, be sure to check online for the latest forms and rules. This year we are allowing digital format entries as well as CD’s. How exciting! Be sure to check with your state to determine the deadlines. In states with no composition chairman, it is possible to enter individually. Check with your regional chairman for the procedure. The website address is most easily found by going to the www.nfmc-music.org website and putting Junior Composers in the search box. Please do not hesitate to ask questions. Isn’t our new poster breathtaking? Thanks to Deborah De la Torre (Colorado) and Jennifer Griffin at headquarters for spearheading this project. The poster is available in PDF form for your use or may be ordered from headquarters. Many thanks go to the regional chairmen who are working hard to make our Junior Composers Contest a success. They include: Judy Dewette, Elin A Havrilla, Arlene Lewis, Sherry Frush and Deborah De Le Torre.
Name
Age Limit
Entry Fee
Amount of Award
Application Deadline
Class I
9 and under
$1.25 per entry plus state entry fee
$100, $75, and 2 incentive awards of $50. Funded by Valentin
Feb.1 to State Chairman
Class II
10-12
$1.25 per entry plus state entry fee
$150, $100, and 2 incentive awards of $50. Funded by Valentin
Feb. 1 to State Chairman
13-15
$1.25 per entry plus state entry fee
$150, $100, and 3 incentive awards of $50. Funded by Valentin $125 John and Margeret Pierson, funded by a memorial gift from Mrs. Malcolm Denise.
Feb. 1 to State Chairman
$1.25 per entry plus state entry fee
$200, $100, and 4 awards at $50. Funded by Valentin $200 Outstanding string composition. Funded by Valentin$50 Outstanding piano composition, Laura K. Wilson Memorial Award honoring Dorothy Dann Bullock. Funded by Pittsburgh Piano Teachers Assoc. & Friends. $50 Olga Klein Nelson Award.
Feb. 1 to State Chairman
Included in fee above Not to be applied for Separately
Class IV: 3 awards at $50 in the five Regions Class III: 3 awards at $50 in the five Regions Class II: 2 at $50 in the five Regions Class I: 2 at $50 in the five Regions
Class III
Class IV
NFMC Oscar Valentin Regional Awards
16-18
2014 North Central Regional Oscar Valentin Composition Winners CLASS I Kirsten Stuber, Shakopee, MN Eliza Young, Elkhorn, NE
Junior Composers Contest
CLASS II Samuel Hanson, St. Paul, MN Isadora White, Minneapolis, MN CLASS III Andrew Cannestra, Greenfield, WI Evren Ozel, Minneapolis, MN Ian Ridenhour, Bismarck, ND CLASS IV Luke Gion, White Bear Lake, MN Max Lin, New Berlin, WI Elizabeth Ophoven, Grand Rapids, MN
www.nfmc-music.org Visit the Competitions & Awards page for more information.
NFMC Junior Composers Contest Poster.indd 1
8/12/14 4:25 PM
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THEORY CHAIRMAN
Theory Time! by Dr. Cherisse Miller, NFMC Theory Chairman Great News! The final revisions for the 2015 Theory Tests are in the works at this moment and that’s not the only good news! A proofing committee was appointed and approved by the Jr Division at the NFMC Convention in Portland this summer. This team of seven conscientious and proficient teachers are reviewing every test level and answer key to present our Juniors with a clean and accurate test. My gracious thanks to them for inspecting every word and musical example, comparing test to answer key and offering suggestions for clarity and accuracy. It is always good to have extra eyes and brains with a task as large as this project.
THAT IS THE THEORY EVENT? Maybe you were not aware that the federation has a theory event or just have never taken the opportunity to check it out. Our theory tests have evolved into a comprehensive exam that we can be proud of, yet only a small percentage of those entering in the solo events are taking the theory tests. I encourage you to find the guidelines and requirements in the Federation Festivals Bulletin on pages 247-250. We offer twelve levels that are cumulative, with specific requirements utilizing notation, rhythm, scales and key signatures, terminology, intervals, chords, transposition, composition and harmonization, instruments, music history, and forms/genre that are listed in each level.
THE TESTS CHANGE EACH YEAR ALTHOUGH THE REQUIREMENTS STAY THE SAME. Below is the correction in the 2014-2016 Bulletin for Levels 1-3 under the category “Pitch Notation.” An error was made in the column breaks but are shown correctly here. All other categories in these three levels are shown correctly in the bulletin. CATEGORY Pitch Notation
LEVEL 1
LEVEL 2
Musical alphabet; line vs. space notes; higher/ lower
Sharps, flats, line and space names on staff, treble clef only.
LEVEL 3 Treble and bass clef; names on all lines and spaces; stem placement.
PREPARING JUNIORS FOR TAKING THE TESTS How can we incorporate theory into the lessons while also preparing students for the festival theory event? You may be wondering how to add something new into the lesson time when you never seem to have enough time at the lesson to accomplish everything you want to do in the first place. Here are some suggestions to help you get started and teach smart: 1. Start with beginners and/or elementary age students If you are new to the Theory Event, this age group may be easier to approach as you learn the ropes. However, older students in band and orchestra may also be learning theory at school. 2. Download practice tests at NFMC-music.org The Practice Tests will give you and the students an idea of the types of questions and format of questions offered. These tests can be used in the lesson, group class or done at home. You may need to practice a level several times with individual students. If you don’t use a
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computer, the tests and answer keys are also available from your State Festival Chairman for $2.50 per packet of 12 levels. You should have received notification from him/her in placing your order. 3. Select appropriate level Choose a level based on a student’s theory knowledge. Begin with one of the lower levels for first time entrants. The Practice Test is an excellent resource for determining the appropriate level. Even if student is in Medium or above class in the Solo Event, you may need to start in a lower level for theory. There is NO rule for theory placement based on performance level; however, students must advance to the next level after a superior rating. 4. Know the requirements ALWAYS refer to the requirements for each level in the Bulletin. The practice tests do not necessarily have all of the concepts and information included in each test. Tests are cumulative, so you will need to prepare for all the information listed in each category plus information from the lower levels. 5. Teach Smart Once you become familiar with the requirements being tested, then find other ways to incorporate these concepts at the piano with students while learning method book pieces and solos. Use current or old music to study these concepts. You don’t necessarily need to make worksheets. Learn to do a simple analysis with current pieces. • Find examples of concepts in the music they are learning and have students circle in the music. (i.e., notes on lines/spaces, intervals, key signatures, chords, etc.) Ask students to acknowledge note names, kinds of notes, etc. • Write out beats/counts in the music. • Use manuscript paper or dry erase boards to write out intervals, scales, chords, and key signatures. Practice writing these each week, so they feel comfortable with this technique. • Use iPad (if available) to drill note names, intervals, chords and scales. • Find cadences in music. The authentic V-I cadence can be learned early. • Practice writing out transposition by giving or copying a four measure phrase from music books from a lower level and ask student to write out transposition in the required key(s) for their level. • Always talk about chords or inversions whether they are vertical or horizontal in music being learned. Major and minor in levels 1-6 and including Augmented and diminished in levels 7-12.
These are just a few ways to prepare your students for the Theory Event. I know many of you have been involved with the Theory Event a lot longer than I have and may have more ideas. If so, I would love to hear from you and how you teach theory in the lesson and prepare your students for this event. Please write to me at rissey88@gmail.com and I will include your helpful hints next time. Always make time for theory during the lesson, Theory Time!
E D I T O R ’ S N O T E / R AT I N G S H E E T
Who is this editor, Pat Grantier? Pat’s father, Kenny Mann, was her musical role model. He sang every day of his life whether at work, in the car, or at the dining room table. He once accepted an alumni award by simply singing, “Smile, and the world smiles with you…etc.” He played the clarinet and when he attended Interlochen Music Camp in 1931, sponsored in part by the St. Cecelia Music Club of Dickinson, ND, John Phillip Sousa conducted the final camp concert. An optimist, he was a day-brightener, an organizer, and a supporter of musical groups and events. Pat spent her childhood in Dickinson, ND. She began informal piano lessons at age four with a lovely next-door neighbor and continued taking lessons from the Benedictine nuns through high school. Although she performed and accompanied musical groups through high school, she majored in English and Education at the University of Colorado, and taught high school English in Colorado for many years before completing a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of Denver. She then was a high school counselor for some years before retiring in 1998 and returning to her native North Dakota. She lived in England for one year, and has also lived in South Dakota, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Colorado and has traveled to most states. All along she has continued piano work for church services and received her NFMC Fifty years Service in Sacred Music Certificate. Since her retirement she has taught adjunct classes at a local college, completed a minor in piano performance, and volunteered on many boards and organizations. Among them is the Westerners for whom she wrote and edited a monthly newsletter. She currently serves on the boards of the State Historical Society Foundation of North Dakota and the Bismarck Library. She is a past president of the St. Cecelia Federated Music Club of Dickinson, ND, and is a current member of Bismarck/Mandan, ND Thursday Music Club. Immediate Past President of NDFMC, Pat has served as a news gatherer for MCM and Junior Keynotes, and is awed by the hours of volunteer work put into the federation by everyone who is part of it. For fun, Pat attends live music and theater performances, participates in two book clubs, and attends antique auctions. She enjoys cooking for gatherings of friends and family. Pat’s five generation family includes her 98-year-old Irish mother, two sisters, two sons, one daughter, seven granddaughters, and one great-grandson.
From left, Great Grandmother Patricia Mann Grantier, Great-Great Grandmother Mary Wherley Mann, Mother Lauren Sugihara Daniels with Jacoby Masuo Daniels, Grandmother Virginia Grantier Sugihara
www.nfmc-music.org Your source for all the latest NFMC news!
Dear Junior Club Counselors: Claim the recognition your studio deserves! by Mary Thomason, Junior Club Rating Sheet Chairman Claim the recognition and credit you and your students have already earned! Simply fill out the NFMC form JR 1-1 Junior Club Rating Sheet and for your efforts, you will receive a beautiful certificate decorated with seal, ribbons, and more! Worthy of hanging on your studio wall! Most of us are accustomed to the Ratings Sheets our students receive when they are adjudicated at Festivals, but few of us actually evaluate our own junior clubs and report our activities to NFMC. We have over 5000 Junior Clubs within NFMC’s ranks and I’m looking forward to a flood of reports arriving in my mailbox next June! When you submit the JR 1-1 form, you will receive a certificate worthy of hanging on your office or studio wall that demonstrates your Junior Club’s participation in NFMC events and activities in support of NFMC’s mission. The number of ribbons and jewel-like stars that are affixed to the certificate reflects the number of points totaled on your report. Start documenting your points today and the form will only take a few minutes to complete and submit by June 1st. This report is one of a myriad of ways that NFMC tracks and reports its Junior Division activities and maintains its non-profit status, so please take the time to prepare and submit your club’s Rating Sheet. If you have any questions about completing the JR 1-1, please don’t hesitate to contact me by phone at 210-471-8984 or by email: mary@ icanlearnmusic.com . Download your JR 1-1 and JR 1-2 Junior Club Achievement and Ratings Sheet documents today and start tracking your accomplishments now! http://www.nfmc-music.org/clientuploads/directory/ publications/Junior_Division/JR-1-1.pdf http://www.nfmc-music.org/clientuploads/directory/ publications/Junior_Division/JR-1-2.pdf
Here’s hoping that I’ll need a larger mail box!
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DANCE CHAIRMAN
A Prima Ballerina in-the-waiting by Gay Dill, NFMC Dance Chairman The dance world may wait a little bit longer when eleven-year-old Tatiana Sinelnikova metamorphoses into the lead dancer of a major ballet production. At a very young age, she has already placed her mark in that extraordinarily beautiful universe called ballet. In November 2013, at age ten, she was invited to audition for the Paris National Ballet School, and in the spring of 2014, barely eleven, Tatiana auditioned for the NFMC Junior Dance Award. Her doll dance in Copppélia, music by Léo Delibes, choreography by Arthur Saint-Léon, won her a second place in Junior I, ballet category. The judges were unanimous in acclaiming Tatiana as having a brilliant future… a prima ballerina in-the-making. Tatiana started dance lessons as soon as she was able to walk. She is a student of Russian ballet dancers and teachers, Nurlan and Aygul Abougaliev. Tatiana has participated in a number of charitable concerts organized by HOPE with Us (http://www.hopewithus.org) and The Art of Music & Dance. Inc. (http://www.artmusicdance.org). She is a fifth grader at McKnight Elementary School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Wendell Irish Viola Awards by George Keck, Chairman Now is the time to plan for the upcoming Wendell Irish Viola Award competition, the annual competition for young viola performers. This Junior Award was given by Past National President Dr. Barbara Irish and her husband Wilmot Irish in memory of their son, Wendell, who played the viola. The endowment provides a first-place award of $1,000, a second place award of $750, and one award of $250 in each of the five regions of NFMC. Juniors should enter first in their state competition by the deadline of February 1, 2015. Download the application form and read the requirements at our NFMC website, nfmc-music.org. Or contact the state Federation president or the national chairman for information. The state competition chairman sends the winner’s application and performance CD to the national chairman for adjudication.
Tatiana, her mother and older sister, Anna, have been involved for several years with NFMC and the Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs. Anna was the 2011 Junior Dance Award Tatiana Winner; Tatiana was invited Sinelnikova to dance at the 2014 PFMC State Convention. She is taking piano lessons with her mother, Tatiana Mester, and earned her second Gold Cup in Piano solo and Patriotic Folk Events and her first Gold Cup in Piano Concerto. She also earned her first Gold Cups in Ballet and Jazz. Tatiana is dedicated to her two passions, ballet and piano, and is constantly trying to improve her skills in these arts. She sees both music and dance as the universal language and vehicle of bringing joy and relief to others.
FARGO
NORTH DAKOTA at e b t r a e . . H . c Musi of the oul S
NF MC 5 8 TH B IENNIAL CO NV ENTIO N JUNE 1 6-20, 201 5
No specific repertoire is required, but the CD should include at least two contrasting compositions. The performance should not exceed twenty minutes in length. I encourage and challenge Juniors who play the viola to apply for the Wendell Irish Viola Award. The first or second place prizes will go a long way toward continued study of the viola, summer music center tuition, a new instrument or bow, or any number of other uses. Good luck with the competition and keep practicing your instrument.
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For more information, visit www.nfmc-music.org
AMERICAN MUSIC
William Bolcom: An American Treasure by Deborah Freeman, American Music Division Chairman I find it quite interesting, that I’m writing this article on Halloween night and listening to Graceful Ghost Rag. If you’ve never heard it, you’re in for a treat, and you won’t be able to get it out of your head all day! It’s an elegant, wistful melody played out in syncopated rhythms, composed in memory of Bolcom’s father, who was like the music, graceful and gentle. My students really enjoy this piece, but there is so much more I want everyone to know about William Bolcom. National Medal of Arts, Pulitzer Prize, and Grammy AwardWinner William Bolcom is an American composer of chamber operatic, vocal, choral, cabaret, ragtime, and symphonic music. Born in Seattle, Washington, May 26, 1938, he is treasured by musicians the world over. He began composition studies at the age of 11 at the University William Bolcom of Washington, and later studied under Darius Milhaud and Olivier Photo by: Peter Smith Messiaen. He joined the faculty of the University of Michigan’s School of Music in 1973, was named the Ross Lee Finney Distinguished University Professor of Composition in 1994, and retired in 2008 after 35 years. As a pianist, Bolcom has performed and recorded his own work frequently in collaboration with his wife and musical partner, mezzo-soprano Joan Morris. Their primary specialties in both concerts and recordings are cabaret songs, show tunes, and American Popular Songs of the 20th century. He won the Pulitzer Prize for music in 1988 for 12 New Etudes for Piano. As a composer, Bolcom has written four violin sonatas; nine symphonies; three operas, plus several musical theater operas; eleven string quartets; two film scores; incidental music for stage plays; fanfares and occasional pieces; and an extensive catalogue of chamber and vocal works. He truly believes in hands- on collaboration with performers, “We are only alive as composers if the performers espouse our music.” In the late 60s and 70s, William Bolcom was part of a ragtime revival group. His own ragtime compositions was the result of a search for the score of a then-forgotten opera by Scott Joplin called Treemonisha, which he had only heard mentioned. Bolcom saw rags as a wonderful escape, and inspired Joshua Rifkin, known now for his interpretation of Bach, to make his famous recording of Scott Joplin’s Piano Rags in 1970. That recording made waves that culminated in the use of Joplin’s The Entertainer by Marvin Hamlisch for The Sting. At the age of seventeen, Bolcom wanted to set the complete 46 poems of Songs of Innocence and of Experience by William Blake to music. This three-hour work for soloists, choruses, and orchestra, is a culmination of twenty-five years of work, and won four Grammy Awards in 2005. The realization of needing different styles in order to complete the music, bolstered his ideas that genres of music should not be placed in a hierarchy. He incorporated a variety of different musical styles and genres, including modern classical style using pentatonic scales, tonal classical style, bluegrass, country, soul, folk vaudeville, rock musical, and reggae. In order to make the genres sound more convincing, he incorporated instruments not usually used in a traditional orchestra, but are used in the genres he chose: saxophones, guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, harmonica, electric violin, with country, rock, and folk singers. William Bolcom has performed and recorded with his wife, mezzo-soprano Joan Morris, for 40 years, frequently giving master classes focusing on classic American popular songs. The duo has 24 recordings to their credit, including their Grammy-nominated debut “After the Ball.” Visit their website and enjoy the videos – it’s great fun! http://bolcomandmorris.com/as_video Celebrating American Music from sea to shining sea...
PRESIDENT’S CUP WINNER Pianist Madeline Bauer, Lenoir, North Carolina, was recently honored by the National Federation of Music Clubs as recipient of the President’s Cup Award for excellence in piano performance. The 90-point trophy is awarded to outstanding musicians who have earned at least as many points in the annual Festival Spring Auditions. Miss Bauer earned a total of 93 points during her 14 years in the Festival, with a perfect record of Superior ratings in the piano solo/piano concerto events. Miss Bauer is the first student in North Carolina to earn this very prestigious award. She has been a student of Hickory pianist and teacher Robert Setzer, whose students number a long list of state, regional and national winners in competition events. Madeline, age 19, is the daughter of Dr. Brian and Cynthia Bauer of Lenoir, and is a May graduate of the Caldwell Early College High School. She was a state winner in the North Carolina Federation of Music Clubs scholarship awards auditions in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2013. Aside from her classical skills, Madeline has also served as keyboardist for the youth and adult praise team of the Flemings Chapel Baptist Church in Lenoir. Madeline is currently a freshman at Furman University.
Madeline Bauer
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SUMMER PROGRAMS
Spotlight on Junior Composers Summer Camp Program at U of MN By Pat Steege, Administrative Director The Junior Composers summer camp program (JC), although held in Minneapolis, is open to students of composition from all over the country. The North Central Region of NFMC sponsors this one or two week camp for students aged 14-20 held at the University of Minnesota Minneapolis. The camp experience is intense, yet very gratifying, for these young composers/musicians. The first week is labeled “Studio” and is spent focusing on one aspect of musical form. In 2014, film music was that focus. The Studio students stay for the second week and are integrated into the Institute. Plans are underway to highlight wind ensemble music in 2015. Junior Composers 2014. Final Salon, 7/19/14, Ultn Hall, School of Music, U or MN, Minneapolis. The Institute week (second week) provides program than these last statistics. It’s gratifying to know we are helping the core compositional experience that we always offer, which might these kids find their niche. include orchestral pieces, small ensemble pieces or songs. The camp We truly benefit from generous patrons! Twenty-two of the 31 offers teens a chance to be around other young people who love to students received some kind of scholarship. Eleven students received compose and perform music. Daily theory classes, time on computers scholarships from NCR states; ACAP provided scholarships for 13 using notation software, social time, performing time, presentations students; private donors contributed towards three other students. by guest speakers and time spent one-on-one with a genuine composer The two final salons on Saturday, July 19, showcased the amazing make up the week’s activities. work that had been accomplished in one week. Students’ compositions I just described a fantastic program culminating many hours of were premiered by their peers in Ultan Hall at the U of M campus. organizational work into one short paragraph. Now let me tell some of Our JCers continue to shine all through the year. You will see the interesting details about the 2014 camp. their names mentioned in the Junior Keynotes magazines as winners In 2014 we had 31 in the National composition contest, they go on to major in music students, ages 13-20, or composition in college and they distinguish themselves in their from eleven US states. communities. Several years ago we had Grant Luhmann (Minnesota) (MN 13, WI 6, IA 2, IL with us at camp. He went on to win an ASCAP award and is currently 2, other states 8). We had studying at Indiana University. 24 males and 7 females. This year’s winner of the Minnesota Sinfonia Jay Fishman contest Studio students totaled 12, was Max Friedman (Memphis, TN). We enjoyed beautiful weather Institute students totaled and camaraderie at the Lake Harriet Bandshell on July 19th when we 13 and Songwriters totaled heard Max’s piece premiered. Conductor Jay Fishman continues to use 6. Three students received the winning pieces from previous years in Minnesota Sinfonia concerts recognition for having throughout the year, and the young composers receive royalties. attended the camp for five Campers enjoying an evening of ice After Dr. Seth Custer puts together the 2015 program featuring wind years. At least 17 of the 31 cream and burgers at Annie’s Parlour in ensemble and secures the guest artist, we will update the website http:// students were returning. I Dinky Town with laughter and hearty www.juniorcomposers.org/ and print a brochure. The dates for next year don’t know what speaks appetites. This outing is a standard JC are July 12-25, 2015. The North Central Region NFMC board always more highly of our feature that we absolutely must have!
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meets the final two days of the Institute and attends the salons the final Saturday. Board members plan their summers around these dates! Thanks to all of you who contributed to the success of Junior Composers 2014, those of you who contributed personal finances for scholarships, teacher stipends and general program needs, and those of you who volunteer at the state level to promote composition. You are witnesses to the statement that MPR proclaims, “All music was once new.” Our JC kids are the future American music makers. Odee Maier, co-founder and longtime supporter of the project, funded purchase of a high-tech portable recorder enabling the quality sound capture of music sessions. Counselor and alumnus, Yue Lor, demonstrated and used this device to help students listen critically and review their sessions. New to Junior Composers this year was the teacher training component, something that I personally wanted brought to fruition. Pat Plude of Avivo (in black sweater) was contracted to lead a workshop the same weekend as the final salons. Twelve teachers attended and were inspired and energized. One attendee stated: “This workshop reinvigorated me and has given me so many new ideas to try with my students.”
Brevard Music Center is, at once, a place, a summer institute, and a festival The Music Center is situated on a wooded 180-acre campus in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Founded in 1936, the Music Center has matured into one of this country’s premier summer training programs and festivals. More than 400 gifted students, ages 14 through post-college, come to the Music Center to study with members of a distinguished artist faculty and with renowned guest artists. For seven weeks, students participate in a vigorous program of instruction that includes ensembles, private lessons, and chamber music. www.brevardmusic.org.
Agnes Jardine Scholarships Awarded to Six IMC Students by Carma Kulish, NFMC International Music Camp Representative Reprinted from the Prairie Notes ND Newsletter, Mavis Ness, editor Six International Music Camp students were recipients of the Agnes Jardine Scholarships presented at Federation Day July 26, 2014, at the International Music Camp (IMC). Tim Baumann, IMC co-director, presented the recipients with their awards. They were: Cherilyn Muilenburg (flute), The Pas, Manitoba; Michelle Archibald(oboe), Killarney, Manitoba; Tara Troxel(flute), Minot, N.D.; Lauren Wander (flute and piccolo), Moorhead, Minn.; Katriana Mehlhaff (oboe), Detroit Lakes, Minn.; and Grace Sullivan (flute), Rochester, Mn. Muilenberg, 18, graduated this spring. Along with flute, she plays piano, fiddle, and alto saxophone. She has attended IMC for the past seven years in 17 different sessions. Archibald, 18, is both an oboist and a pianist. She has played oboe in her high school band, the Brandon University Symphonic Band, and has been a member of the Westman Honour Band for the past six years. Troxel, 17, plays both the flute and piano. Her band experience includes marching in the 2014 Macy’s Great American Band, and participating in honor bands such as the North Dakota All State, UND Honor Band, and the International Northwest Music Festival. Wander, 16, has played the flute for over six years. She has also taken seven years of piano lessons. She has spent time working at an instrument repair shop, and has been in over 15 Honor Bands and Choirs. Mehlhaff, 15, plays the oboe, and has taken piano lessons for 10 years. She began playing the English Horn last year, and plays in her church’s Handbell Choir. She also has played in her high school band, community band, and began playing in the Fargo-Moorhead Area Youth Symphony this fall. Sullivan, 16, not only plays the flute, but also is involved in her church’s choir. She has participated in several musicals. Because of her love of animals, her future plans include attending Animal
Behavioral College and becoming a dog trainer. “Although I don’t plan to make music a career, it will always be a huge part of the joy in my life,” she said. Camp Directors Tim and Christine Baumann were pleased with the community’s attendance for the six Friday night concerts. A Saturday night concert was added for the adult camp. This year there were 1,930 campers, which is up 280 from last year. Campers came from seven provinces and 17 states. There were 232 staff/ faculty members along with seven volunteers. Eleven countries were represented this year. The directors focused this year on visits in North Dakota and Manitoba to build relationships with teachers, students and schools. Next year they plan to focus on South Dakota, Saskatchewan and Winnipeg.
NFMC Agnes Jardine PNP Scholarships Back row: Tim Baumann (cocamp director) Katrina Mehlhaff, Cherilyn Muilenburg, Christine Baumann (co-camp director) Front row: Vivian Acuff (NDFMC President), Tara Troxel, Michelle Archibald, Lauren Wander, Grace Sullivan, Carolyn Nelson (NFMC President).
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J U N I O R S TAT E C O N V E N T I O N S
Junior State Convention News ALABAMA To the Beating of the Drum... by Samantha Strunk, Alabama Federated Junior Music Clubs newsgatherer The skies were cloudy, but the notes were clear. The scattered thunderstorms threatening rain were no match for the concert prepared by a handful of the most dedicated musicians from across the state. Young, hard-working musicians are the key component that made the AFMC Junior Convention the memorable gathering it became. What is it that makes a Convention successful? Is it the fun activities, the awards and inductions, or the music itself? Perhaps it is the combination of all three that allow us to experience the wonder of music and dance to the same beat – if only for a few hours. Many of those present were experienced with music in some way, but how many
AFMC President, Marsha Harrow Installed the following officers: Madison Williams, President (Winston County Piano Artists JMC); Nikki Nandwe, Vice President (Betty’s Young Musicians JMC); Katie Humphries, Secretary (Winston County Piano Artists JMC); and Samantha Strunk, Newsgatherer (Magic Fingers Junior Music Club).
THE MARILYN CALDWELL SOLO PIANO AWARD THE FIRST PLACE AWARD IN 2015 HAS RISEN TO $600, AND SECOND PLACE TO $300. Prepare your students early to enter this piano competition with entries to be received by March 1, 2015. Check the NFMC website now for rules and application forms JR 19-1 AND 19-2.
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attendees were familiar with the art of rhythmically moving in time to music? I certainly had a great deal to learn in the field of dance. Two dance representatives from Rhythm ‘N Motion Kids and Adult Dance Studio presented a dance demonstration engaging everyone in the room. The presentation took us through the ages with dances ranging from the salsa to the western. It was undoubtedly educational and an all-around excellent experience. At the conclusion of the presentation, the audience was invited on stage to participate in familiar dances including the “Cha Cha Slide” and the “Cupid Shuffle.” Needless to say, the dancing was a blast, but we also distributed awards and installed the next year’s officers at the Convention. Those installed were a new president, vice president, secretary, and newsgatherer (pictured). Alabama had two Presidential Cup winners, Emily Smith and Joseph Summerlin, for the 2013-2014 year. Alabama also had a successful year in gold cup numbers and festival attendance. Overall, this was a great year for AFJMC! Awards and festivals are important, but there would be neither without the musicians behind it. It is necessary to remember that while the Convention is a great opportunity for the myriad successes throughout the year to be recognized, it could not take place with the junior musicians of Alabama. The tremendous talent of these musical students was wellrepresented in the Honors Recital. Student after student from all over the state sauntered up to the piano and simply lost himself/herself in the music that so much work had gone into to prepare. Anyone could bear witness to the affect on musician and audience alike. Every piece was different, and every performance was great. There is a cause for celebration to see a sanctuary full of people of all ages in love with music. The Convention certainly lived up to its theme of Music: The Dance of Life. From literal dancing to award recipients’ “happy dancing,” to fingers dancing on keys, the dance came alive. While running through life and busy schedules, it is imperative to stop, dance, and listen to the music that deserves to be heard. The AFMC Junior Convention provided a wonderful opportunity to do just that, and we are looking forward to future conventions as successful as this one.
PENNSYLVANIA Try an International Approach to Your Next Junior State Convention by Joan Stanisha, Pittsburgh District Chairman Are you searching for a theme for your next convention or event? Look no farther than the musical traditions of your communities. Every state or district has multiple nationalities that have settled in their region. Often they have striven to keep the cultural traditions and music alive, so why not display this cultural diversity as a theme for your next convention? Our convention theme was “Pittsburgh – A Musical Melting Pot.” We began with a marvelous yodeler from Switzerland, Conrad Ostertag, to start off the evening Board Meeting. The next morning, the convention opened with a bagpiper, Gary Neugebauer, to accompany the posting of the colors. Our first session began with an expert demonstration of eastern European “Exotic Flutes.” Andrei Pidkivka owned over 200 of these. Before dinner the musical interlude brought us two women with origins in either ends of the world. Lois Tamplin used her 15 minutes to display artifacts from her native Wales along with a few Welsh songs, and Viju Madhavan performed on her “veena” while seated on the floor in her beautiful silk Indian Sari. The evening concert featured our own statewide talented artists who were urged to keep with the international theme. The following day, before lunch, Lucy Henry became ‘Fraulein Heinrich” giving us a German lesson with the famous drinking song “Schnitzelbank.” After lunch our resident Japanese ladies, Yoko Motoyama and Tamiko Iida, performed a Japanese Tea
Viju Madhaven holding her “veena,” an ancient Indian instrument constructed of hollowed wood.
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Ceremony, which left our membership speechless at its simple meditative beauty. The evening brought on “The Entertainers” with Polkas and Czardas’s from eastern Europe to lead into the “Procession of Presidents.” This was followed by a delicious banquet of ethnic offerings. The evening concert was the “piece de resistance” of the convention. Our Young Artist, Alvin Zhu, regaled us with music from several countries, ending his program with Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody #2 to a thunderous standing ovation! To wrap up the convention on the last morning, the international award-winning “Irish Bell Dancers” and the Eastern European Junior Tamburitzans “Hrvatski Folklore Ensemble” performed for one another and our fascinated membership before lunch. The last event featured winners of our State “AikensCadman Competition,” one from each Pennsylvania District Although you may not have the good fortune of having so many ethnic groups in your area, even a few would enlighten and stimulate your members, leaving them, as they did ours, with delightful, treasured memories.
The Annual NFMC Martha Marcks Mack Junior Vocal Award
0, 2015 1 3 Y A M
l a n Natio
c i s Mu e k We of rtbeat a e H – Music
ul the So
CALLING ALL JUNIORS! CALLING ALL JUNIORS! THE NATIONAL MUSIC WEEK CONTEST DEADLINE IS APPROACHING.
First Place: $1500 // Second Place: $500
The new theme is “Music…Heartbeat of the Soul” Entries must be postmarked by January 15, 2015.
High school students in grades 10, 11 and 12 may apply. Audition by CD. Complete rules and application are available online at:
Our theme this year is one that allows us to share the depth of music and its influence on our innermost thought and feelings. It allows anyone to explore music as it affects our lives and our very being. I cannot wait to see these essays filled with originality and inspiration. Each student entrant represents a different perspective and ideas to consider.
www.nfmc-music.org Naomi Sanchez, chair | knsanchez@hotmail.com
Rembering Bill Walsh Bill Walsh passed away at the Cape Girardeau Veterans Home on November 19th, 2014 at 92. One of Bill’s greatest accomplishments came from his pure joy of giving. In 1984, with his salesmanship personality and Joyce’s unshakable determination to open new opportunities for the disabled, they embarked upon a new adventure, selling t-shirts with a specially designed musical logo and the words “My Heart Belongs to Music” to raise money for young musicians by creating the Junior Scholarship for the Handicapped through the National Federation of Music Clubs. Over the next seventeen years they traveled across the United States to every National Federation of Music Club Convention. Because of their efforts, thousands of dollars of scholarships are awarded each year to disabled musicians all over the United States, with an endowment of almost $200,000. Both were honored at the National Federation of Music Clubs Biennial Convention in 2001 for their contribution to the Junior Scholarships for the Handicapped. Bill’s dedication and devotion has blessed so many lives. Bill will be greatly missed.
We encourage you to share this theme with them. All students in grades 7 - 12 are eligible to enter this contest. They do not have to be a member of NFMC. It is their opportunity to share the influence of music in their lives. Please let any youth you know, whether they be your student, a home school or a public school student, that there is an opportunity for them to share their thoughts and feelings about music and life. There is a prize of $50 for each declared state winner by the national judges. Applications are on the NFMC’s website (nfmc-music. org) under Competitions and Awards: Annual Junior Awards; National Music Week Essay Contest. The rules are included and the chairman’s name for your region. The deadline for essays to be postmarked for submission is January 15, 2015. A picture of the entrant must accompany the essay. The current year’s theme and the entrant’s name must appear on the first page. Also the telephone number for the teacher or contact person should be included. We have found this to be valuable in several situations. Mary Ellen Ulmer, National Music Week National Chairman
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S C AT T E R E D N O T E S
Scattered Notes KENTUCKY
NORTH DAKOTA
Every April the PPA of Lexington Federated Music Club (LFMC) arranges an audition day for Junior musicians to determine who will be the recipients of scholarships to attend summer camps. Dr. Schuyler Robinson from the University of Kentucky’s Music School served as judge and after careful deliberation selected 6 students from the 14 entrants. They varied in age from 7-14. The winners included three violinists, one violist, and two pianists. In October the winners performed for the LFMC program with compositions from J.S. Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart, Chopin, Debussy, Seitz, and Kreisler.
Bismarck/Mandan Thursday Music Club Juniors Present Sunday Musicale On a lovely October Sunday afternoon, music students gathered to perform at Bismarck’s First Presbyterian Church. The Quatre Cloche Bellringers kicked off the program playing “Let There Be Peace on Earth” and “Cross-Stretch.” Violinists Brittany Bearsheart and Emily Robinson performed Vivaldi and Bruch. Vocal performances by Christian Bowlinger, Jane Gowan, and Jacob Ehrmantraut, and piano work by Elijah
Gray, Lane Ternes, Jane Gowan, Rachel Bandy completed the day’s event leading to refreshments and visiting in the church hall. Thanks to accompanists Julie Schwartz and Rhonda Gowen for their work, too. What a nice respite from football for an hour or two on Sunday afternoon! Minot, ND Music Club’s Monster Concert The Minot Piano Teacher’s Club starts organizing ideas about a theme in the fall, makes a selection and lets all teachers know so they can start looking through their music to find pieces at all levels that would fit the theme.Then in late November we meet with teachers, going through their music, plus the music that the club owns from previous Monster concerts. We organize pieces from very beginners up through teacher level. Initially we choose
Quatre Cloche: Anna Person, Madison Deics, Allison Werner, Sarah Bruschwein.
David Ma, Andy Du, David Moore, Emerson Farrar (front), Madeline Farrar, and Eliana Shapere. Lane Ternes delights the crowd.
North Dakota Music Club’s Monster Concert
I N N O V AT I V E , I N D E P E N D E N T M U S I C P U B L I S H E R S
“Do we have to do the lesson book? Your music is more fun!”
Noteworthy Teachers’ choice for choice pieces.
– Student
Recitals on a Theme Piano Solos/Vocals/Wedding Music EASY ACCESS
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Publications
by View first pages FREE!
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Contact Carole Flatau, Editor Noteworthy Publications 701.845.0068 noteworthypublications@hotmail.com | www.noteworthypublications.com
S C AT T E R E D N O T E S
about 20 -22 pieces and then go back through them again, deleting any that might not fit, getting down to about 16 pieces. We then make about 12-14 packets of practice copies for each teacher to take them to her students in January. Students work on them until the Monster Concert which is usually in early April. Long ago we’ve reserved the hall at Central Campus High School and contacted Dennis Jacobsen for the seven pianos that he will bring in for us. He contacts Yamaha with the concert information. We must have seven originals of each piece for the seven pianos, so we order any that we need. For the last few years, Karen Atwood has presented an improvisation during the Free Will Offering. Also, one of the teachers will direct the concert and another will be the MC. Teachers send notes home with their students, we put notices in the paper, and sometimes appear on the TV Noon Show promoting the concert. We also sell large cookies and mini-waters in the entry before the concert. They are a big hit!
SOUTH CAROLINA
Greenville, SC Melody Club (Grades 5-8) President Eliza Pagel and Vice-President Justin Harms, presented their recent NFMC Award of Merit to the club.
WASHINGTON
Greenville Tempo Club, SC (Grades K-4) Club officers proudly presented their recent NFMC Award of Merit to the club.
VIRGINIA
Greenville, SC Harmony Club (Grades 9-12) President Catherine Mershon, and Junior Keynotes Chairman Toby Pasui, proudly presented their recent NFMC Award of Merit to the club.
musicians at the camp. Josiah presented a program for his own Jr. Club in November, playing some of his works. He was in concert at Virginia’s Hollins University November 2 playing one of his original compositions with the Valley Chamber Orchestra. Josiah is an accomplished pianist and has earned superior in the Federated Festival for 8 years. His teacher is Jean Williams. Josiah’s home club and state federation will follow this young composer as he enters college, one more step to fulfilling his composition aspirations.
Josiah Sprankle, a member of Thursday Morning Music Jr. Club in Roanoke, Va., was accepted to Brevard’s Summer Music Institute in the composing department, Josiah Sprankle an experience he termed “amazing.” He, along with 9 other students, some in college and one doctoral candidate, worked on several projects during the 6 weeks camp. His works were recorded by fellow
At our Washington State Federation of Music Clubs September meeting, we were privileged to start the meeting off with a beautiful a capella singing of The Star Akemi Takahashi Spangled Banner by one of our juniors, Akemi Takahashi, a vocal student of Nancy Bos. We had a few other juniors in attendance at our workshop on “Composition Clever-Crafting” by NFMC Regional Junior Composers Chairman Deborah De La Torre. It was so heartwarming to see juniors join their teachers to learn more about music and composition. Salena Sok, member of the junior club Westside Dizzy Fingers, and student of John Van Lierop, member of the Greater Seattle Club, earned her fourth gold Salena Sok cup in the WSFMC Junior Festival. Salena, who studied piano with John for 13 years, is pictured here with all of her gold cups and her high school diploma. Congratulations Salena!
The Lana M. Bailey Annual Piano Concerto Award The Lana M. Bailey Annual Piano Concerto Award is for high school seniors planning to enter university, college or conservatory as a music major in 2015. Two awards are available; first place $750, second place $200. These awards are endowed with funds to honor Past-National NFMC President Lana M. Bailey. For detailed information, see the NFMC website at nfmc-music.org. Click on Publications and see JR-20 and JR-21. Deadline for entering is May 1, 2015. Questions will gladly be answered by Dee Blaser at: dblaser@sunflower.com.
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I M A G I N AT I O N N O O K
Let Your Imagination Go! Walking to Town by Carolyn Carson Born with an expansive nature, New York City native Carolyn Pennello Carson began her piano studies with Joseph R. Martucci, prominent organist and pianist, then later worked extensively with Anne Ewell at the Conservatory of Music in Norfolk, Virginia. Ewell was a pupil of Joseffy and Leschetizky. Carolyn attended Manhattan School of Music, where she coached with Dora Zaslavsky, the University of Memphis, Rhodes College at Memphis (Myron Myers and Lois Mayer) and the University of San Diego. She augmented her training by attending seminars presented by Lilli Kraus, Georges Syndor, Soulima Stravinsky, Daniel Pollack, Sidney Foster, Irwin Freudlich and Ruth Slenczynska. A pioneer in the teaching of Class Piano, her methods have been successfully demonstrated in programs in the Memphis City Schools,
the Santee, CA, Recreation Department and recently, in Pensacola, FL, for the Escambia County School Board. She has presented workshops for teachers on the music of Anton Bilotti in San Diego, Orlando and Mobile, as well as seminars on class teaching at numerous state conventions. She appeared as soloist with the North Coast Symphony in San Diego County in 1992 and has been a recording artist for Educo Records, Ventura CA. Her popular series, Keyboard Kids, Santorella Publications, which embraces the Kodaly genre, has proven successful for a wide range of beginning piano students including autistic children. Her popular “Opus Series‚“ consisting of pedagogically correct supplementary pieces can be obtained at her web site: www. carolyncarsonpiano.com.
Do You Hear What I Hear? by Lori Jessen, President of the Iowa Federated Music Clubs If you ask that question to Alejandra Riviera-Mizner, the answer would be a definite “no,” but not for the reasons that you might think. We all listen and hear things in different ways based on our preferences or our experiences (I always like to pick out the alto line in vocal music). But in Alejandra’s case the reason is because she is deaf. She was born profoundly deaf in both ears. But Alejandra’s deafness doesn’t keep her from loving music or being involved in it. Alejandra states, “I love to feel the vibrations. It just makes me happy.” After participating in the sign choir that performed with the Middle School Choir at Dakota Valley Schools in North Sioux City, SD, Alejandra decided that for high school, she would be in band. “I really enjoy music. There are so many kids in the band, all working together. I love being part of a team and teamwork,” she says. “The kids treat me normally. They don’t treat me any different. We have a lot of talented musicians here and they help me when I need it.” The band director, Iowa Federation member Daryl Jessen, couldn’t have been more pleased. “ I try to create a ‘family’ atmosphere in the band. We are all learning to accept each other and work together. Everyone has something to offer to the group. I knew that Alejandra would be a definite asset to the band program here at Dakota Valley. I was positive she had the determination to overcome any obstacles she might face.” Alejandra is an energetic young lady with a sparkling sense of humor. She is conscientious and a hard worker—an A student. And passionate about the things and people she loves. No one knows that better than her interpreters, Vicki Warrad and Amy Powell. This
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mother/daughter team has been working with Alejandra for 5 years. Accustomed to figuring out challenging situations in their occupation, they Alejandra (center) marches in a learned early on that the parade with the Dakota Valley marching band was going to Marching Band. be very different than sign choir. For rehearsing the field show, the interpreter simply stood on the sidelines and interpreted. But as the band would rehearse their street marching around the school’s track, the interpreter needed to walk backwards, facing Alejandra in order to be able to communicate. “Who would have thought I’d have to learn to walk backwards for so long?” said Vicki. “You’re doing all the parades,” she says to her daughter, “You’re younger.” Alejandra says an emphatic “YES” when queried about remaining in band all through high school. “I love to fellowship with my friends.” She would also encourage any other deaf person to be in band. “I would say go for it! You can do it! Just be yourself and don’t let any one keep you down.” For marching band Alejandra played the cymbals. She has also taken a turn on the bass drum and is learning auxiliary percussion and xylophone. The Dakota Valley Band is now rehearsing for their upcoming Winter Concert. First on the program? “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Seeing the title, Alejandra just smiles.
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WALKING TO TOWN
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Winter 2015
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JUNIOR KE YNOTES 27
National Federation of Music Clubs 1646 West Smith Valley Road Greenwood, IN 46142
NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE
PAID TWG, INC.
Junior Keynotes
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