SecondVP'sColumnTomMuller SecondVice-President

OMEAConference2005 —MusicForaLifetime!

Ihope you all have had a successful start to your school year! A lot has happened with the planning for OMEA Conference 2005. The area chairs have been working very hard to find incredible conductors, and the sessions appear to be full of valuable hands-on information. I invite all of you to browse through the program on the OMEA website at www.oregonmusic.org. Information is being updated all the time, so continue to check back.

Along with the conference planning, a call for volunteers has been made to help with chaperoning All-State students and to pre - side over sessions. If you would like to help out with either of these, please contact me at tom_muller@reynolds.k12.or.us or call Reynolds Middle School at 503.665.8166 x3540.

I have learned so much over this past year about how this organization functions. Many times we hear about how we all should get involved. I would like to add my own spin to this. A director who has influenced me greatly once said, “If not me then who, and if not now, then when?” It was this statement that got me involved with OMEA, and I have truly enjoyed watching its evolution. My time as the Middle School Band Chair enabled me to develop relationships with the guest conductors, many of which continue to this day. As Second Vice-President, I have been exposed to the inner workings of the organization and have found newfound respect for those who have organized prior conventions. The time has come for more people to help with this organization. In other words: Get involved! Talk to your district chairs; help with the conferences; get in touch with any members of the Executive Board; and ask how you can help.

I have found that some believe they must be seasoned veterans to have a say in OMEA. This is not true. When I first started serving on the Board, I was in my fourth year of teaching and very, very green. Great ideas come from those willing to take the risk of offering an opinion.

I want to thank all of the fine teachers who have volunteered and helped with the upcoming conference. Without your assistance it would not look as exciting as it does.

I will see all of you in Eugene!