February/March 2020 AlaBreve

ala breve February/March 2020 The Official Publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association Inside this issue... Alabama Celebrates 200 Years ABA & AVA All-State Schedules and Clinicians AMEA Election Candidates 2020 AMEA Conference Photos and Awards Never Take No from an Inanimate Object: A Guide to Teaching Oboists Technology Tools for Concert Band Rehearsals Collaboration Through Performance: The Alabama Winds and Alabama Voices Purpose, Community, and Opportunity: A New Year’s Reflection www.myamea.org



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ala breve the official publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association February/March 2020 Features... 9 AMEA Governing Board Directory 13 Changing Our Thinking About Advocacy by Rob Lyda 17 General Music Reviews by Deanna Bell 19 AVA All-State Clinicians 20 AVA All-State Schedule 21 Industry/Institutional Members 22 ABA Legislation 23 ABA All-State Clinicians 24 ABA All-State Schedule 29 Candidates for AMEA Election 32 Alabama Celebrates 200 Years by David Raney 34 Phi Beta Mu: Technology Tools for Concert Band Rehearsals 36 Purpose, Community, and Opportunity...by Matt Leder 38 Never Take No from an Inanimate Object... by Kathleen Bell 43 Band Music Reviews by Randall Coleman 44 Collaboration Through Performance by Elizabeth Haynes 46 Schedule of Events 48 Choral Music Reviews by William Powell Departments... Advertisers Index Smoky Mountain Music Festival..............17 All-National Honor Ensembles ................30 UA Bands Crimson Festival of Winds ....42 6 .....................President American College of Musicians ...............31 UA Honor Bands ......................................12 8 .....................Registrar Arts Music Shop, Inc ..................back cover UAB Music...............................................28 10...........................AOA AU Music Department .............................41 UNA Department of Music ......................25 15 ..........................HED AU Bands .................................................35 University of Montevallo .........................12 16 ..................Elem/Gen Gadsden Music Company...........................4 University of South Alabama Bands ........51 18 .............................AVA Huntingdon College Bands.......................50 University of South Alabama Music ..........2 20 ...........................ABA John M. Long School of Music (Troy) .....11 Yamaha.......................................................3 31 .....................cNAfME MIOSM.....................................................37 Samford University ..................................49 ala breve 5

Greg Gumina, AMEA President Happy 2020 AMEA! Wow! What a Conference. If you great experiences is because the personal and twice as effective. Mr. missed it, and not many of you did, you Division leadership is so strong and Satterfield finished his thoughts on definitely missed a life-changing devoted. Thanks and congratulations Advocacy by making the point that we experience. We once again achieved are indeed in order for the leadership need to begin the process with the end historically high attendance numbers teams from all our Divisions. result in mind. Our end result is that which shows your dedication to our policymakers, decision-makers, and profession. One popular definition of ADVOCACY funding sources already know us and are Professional is “working and behaving in a position to help when we ask in such a way that others think of you as Dave Satterfield’s Keynote Address at because they are familiar with our competent, reliable, and respectful. our conference was so well prepared, programs and their benefits. Let’s all Professionals are a credit not only to delivered, important, and on point. make a commitment to spend some themselves but also to others.” We Particularly of interest was his message time building relationships with checked this box. Development is regarding Advocacy. The idea that there decision-makers and taking action on defined as, “a specified state of growth is “no new money” and that “the Advocacy for our profession, our art or advancement.” We checked this box competition for the money that does form, our programs, and most as well. And Conference can be defined exist is fierce” were both points well importantly our students. as, “a formal meeting that typically takes taken. Dave suggested four fundamental place over a number of days and principals for Advocacy and showed Arts Alliance Summit involves people with a shared interest, that they are the same whether speaking especially one held regularly by an to local, state, or federal policymakers, On April 2, AMEA President-Elect association or organization.” We district officials, potential donors and David Raney, ABA President-Elect Joel definitely checked this box in supporters, or even the media. The first Henson, Elementary/General Division Montgomery. Our 2020 Professional was documenting the accomplishments President Betty Wilson, and I will attend Development Conference was truly a and achievements of our groups, the Alabama Arts Alliance Pre- group of dedicated Professionals students, and schools. This is often the Conference Summit. The event will gathered together with shared interests thing we neglect because of our already gather leaders from all areas of Arts specifically for the purpose of growth taxed schedules and real-life obligations. Education in our state for a day of and advancement. Thank you to all who But, we must do it. We must quantify learning, brainstorming, and performed, presented, presided, what we accomplish. Dave went on to cooperation. The sessions will be exhibited, volunteered, and/or attended. reminded us that Advocacy begins at facilitated by the Alabama State I think we all owe a collective standing the local level and that no matter who Department of Education Arts ovation to Dr. Carl Hancock, Pat we talk to, they all have a vested interest Education Specialist Andy Meadows Stegall, and Mary Ann Stegall for the in our successes. His third point on and promise to be another opportunity best registration process in the history Advocacy was to make it personal. to coordinate and fellowship with our of AMEA! And thanks to all of you Invite the Superintendent, School Board fellow Arts Educators. who pre-registered which made the Members, Local Elected Officials, and process so efficient. Our conference is State Elected Officials to visit you in Vote! actually six simultaneous conferences, your classroom quarterly. If they don’t and the reason we are able to have such immediately respond, keep trying This is a voting year for us, both at the because at some point they will, and state (AMEA) and national (NAfME) then the relationship can become levels. Please read through the bios of 6 February/March 2020

our in-state candidates for President- Resort and Convention Center in most out of our stay in Montgomery Elect and Recording Secretary which are Orlando, Florida. Ensembles include next year while thinking of ways to included in this issue of the Ala Breve. Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, make our Birmingham experience more Voting will be conducted online by Mixed Choir, Jazz Ensemble, Guitar similar to Montgomery. I would email link. Please make sure you are Ensemble, and Modern Band. Please respectfully ask that each of you think receiving emails from AMEA so that see the NAfME website for more of ways we can make Birmingham more you will be able to vote. Voting will information. March is Music in Our like Montgomery, and then send those open on March 1st and close on April Schools Month. What do you have ideas to your Division Presidents. The 1st. In the last issue of the Ala Breve, I planned? It would be a great Board has agreed to talk about this at challenged you as an organization to opportunity to start working on some our meeting in June. I would like to both achieve the highest voter turnout in initial Advocacy efforts in your congratulate and thank Susan Smith for AMEA history. I hereby repeat that community. The NAfME website has a her six years of faithful service on the challenge. Voting at the national level is lot of resources and information to help AMEA Governing Board. She is a true now open as well. You should have us celebrate Music in Our Schools professional and always keeps the needs received at least two emails concerning Month, including lesson plans. of the students as her top priority. I the elections from NAfME already. We wish all of you a great 2020 filled with are electing our National President- Wrapping it up awesome lesson plans, beautiful Elect and Southern Division concerts, collegial professionalism, and President-Elect, plus we are voting on The AMEA Governing Board met many student success stories shared two proposed By-Law Amendments. I following our convention and one of with others. urge you to make your voice heard in all the recurring themes of the these voting opportunities. conversation was how much we all enjoy Music education AWESOME in having our event in Montgomery. As Alabama! News from NAfME you know, we will be returning to Montgomery for our 2021 Convention, Respectfully Submitted, Applications for the 2020 All-National which will also be our 75th Anniversary Greg Gumina, AMEA President Honors Ensembles opened on Friday, Celebration. The convention will then January 31. The event will take place on return to Birmingham for the following November 5-8, at the Gaylord Palms two years. So we all need to make the ala breve 7

Pat Stegall - AMEA Registrar From the Registrar Thanks to everyone for being prepared with your tickets for Wednesday. We had 950 paid attendees for the conference. registration and check-in at the 2020 Alabama Music That is not a record, but that is a strong showing! Let’s Educators Professional Development Conference! The increase next year’s attendance by inviting our members that process we are using now is very quick as long as you have did not attend this year. A special thank you to Dr. Carl pre-registered for the conference and joined/renewed your Hancock for his help with the technology. This has really NAfME membership. Opening the check-in on Wednesday made a difference for our conference registration. Let me evening allowed us to get a head start. We checked in about know of anything that you can think of that could help us 120 members that night which really helped. I encourage more make the process even better. PS members to take advantage of this if you arrive on AMEA Presidents - Past to Present 1946 Yale H. Ellis 1972 Frances P. Moss 1996 Johnnie Vinson 1948 Walter A. Mason 1974 George Hammett 1998 Michael Meeks 1950 Vernon Skoog 1975 Frances P. Moss 2000 John McAphee, Jr. 1952 John J. Hoover 1976 S. J. Allen 2002 Tony Pike 1954 Lamar Triplett 1978 W. Frank McArthur 2004 Becky Rodgers 1956 Carleton K. Butler 1980 Paul Hall 2006 John Baker 1958 Mort Glosser 1982 Lacey Powell, Jr. 2008 Pat Stegall 1960 Wilbur Hinton 1984 Johnny Jacobs 2010 Steve McLendon 1962 Lacey Powell, Jr. 1986 Merilyn Jones 2012 Sara Womack 1964 G. Truman Welch 1988 Ronald D. Hooten 2014 Carl Hancock 1966 Jerry Countryman 1990 Ken Williams 2016 Susan Smith 1968 Floyd C. McClure 1992 Dianne Johnson 2018 Greg Gumina 1970 Jerry Bobo 1994 James K. Simpson 8 February/March 2020

AMEA Governing Board 2019-2020 President President-Elect Treasurer/Registrar Greg Gumina David Raney Pat Stegall Shades Valley High School Sparkman High School AMEA Registration 6100 Old Leeds Road 2616 Jeff Road PO Box 3385 Irondale, AL 35210 Harvest, AL 35749 Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 (205) 956-4638 256-837-0331 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] President, ABA Immediate Past President Recording Secretary Terry Ownby Susan Smith Carla Gallahan Florence High School 104 Smith Hall 113 Long Hall 1201 Bradshaw Drive Troy, AL 36082 Troy University Florence, AL 35630 (334) 670-3322 Troy, AL 36082 (256) 768-2200 [email protected] (334) 670-3502 [email protected] [email protected] President, AOA President, ELEM/GEN Guy Harrison President, AVA Betty Wilson 218 Goodwin Music Building Megan Jones Deer Valley Elementary Auburn University, AL 36849 Decatur High School 4990 Ross Bridge Parkway (334) 844-8192 1011 Prospect Drive Hoover, AL 35226 [email protected] Decatur, AL 35601 (205) 296-3311 (256) 552- 3011 [email protected] President, AMEA Collegiate [email protected] Jackson Vaughan [email protected] Industry Representative AMEA Collegiate Advisor President, Higher Education Becky Lightfoot Edward (Ted) Hoffman Mildred Lanier Arts Music Shop University of Montevallo Jefferson State Community College 3030 East Blvd. Station 6670 (205) 983-5309 Montgomery, AL 36116 Davis Music Building 308 [email protected] 334/271-2787 Montevallo, AL 35115 [email protected] (205) 665-6668 Alabama Department of Education [email protected] Arts Education Specialist Executive Director Andy Meadows Editor, Ala Breve Assistant Executive Director 50 North Ripley Street Garry Taylor Rusty Logan Montgomery, Alabama 36104 1600 Manor Dr. NE 2020 Janabrooke Lane (334) 353-1191 Cullman, AL 35055 Auburn, AL 36830 [email protected] (256) 636-2754 (334) 663-1702 [email protected] [email protected] ebruary_2020_AlaBreve_Layout 1 1/30/2020 11:10 AM Page 1 February/March 2020 On the cover: The Alabama Bicentennial Marching Band. a l a b r e v eThe Official Publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association Photo by David Raney. See page 30 for the full story Garry Taylor, Editor & Advertising Manager ADVERTISING & COPY DEADLINES Inside tAhAAli2aBsNM0bTAiCe2asEev0oms&cAeluhClarAaEenoTbC.Vlo.neao.AelcfokrletaegeAirotbyeliNnlorn-TaoSncCtoetefToaarsoPhntlse2mrhdo0fSoiodu0atcraognhYtCsheeeInosdaPaannurenscdlreiefmsoArtrawamBtnaeaadrnnOdCcdsblejiRen:weciTcwhth:ieaweAan.AmrsGslyaauablimsdaeema.taoorWgTeinadcshianngdOAbloabisatms a Voices 1600 Manor Dr. NE Fall - August/September (Back to School) issue: July 15 Cullman, AL 35055 Winter - October/November (Conference) issue: September 15 (256) 636-2754 Spring - May/June (All-State) issue: January 15 [email protected] Summer - May/June (Digital Only) issue: April 15 Unless otherwise indicated, permission is granted to NAfME members to reprint articles for educational purposes. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of AMEA or the Editor. All announcements & submissions are subject to editorial judgement/revision.The Alabama Music Educators Association is a state unit of NAfME: The National Association for Music Education, a voluntary, nonprofit organization representing all phases of music education in schools, colleges, universities, and teacher-education institutions. Active NAfME/AMEA membership is open to all persons engaged in music teaching or other music education work. Ala Breve is published four times a year (August, October, February & May) by the Alabama Music Educators Association and printed by Hardwick and Son Printing in Dothan, Alabama. Subscription for members is $4.00 per year as part of annual NAfME/AMEA dues. Subscriptions for non-members is $15.00 per year. Bulk rate postage paid at Dothan, Alabama. ala breve 9

Guy Harrison - President, Alabama Orchestra Association Spring Renewal What a fantastic AMEA Conference! From sessions to By the time this edition of Ala Breve arrives in your mailbox or performances, there was certainly enough to keep everyone busy. inbox the AOA will have concluded its annual All-State Orchestra The AOA once again made a point to sponsor sessions that aimed Festival. We would like to once again thank the University of to reach a broad audience within the AMEA membership. Our Alabama for hosting the festival! This year’s winner of the AOA headline clinician, Richard Meyer, was inspirational with his sessions Composition Contest was Samford University’s Dr. Mark Lackey on beginning strings, and tips for highly effective and efficient with his piece Reef, which will have its North American premiere rehearsals. However, his session on giving BCAH to the community performed by the Festival Orchestra on February 9. In case you was probably the highlight of the conference for me as we learnt missed it in a previous issue, our clinicians this year are Dr. Thomas about ways in which we can provide opportunities for our students Heuser, Music Director of the Idaho Falls Symphony in Idaho to share their love of music with those less fortunate. We were also Falls, Idaho, and the San Juan Symphony, based in Durango, excited to have Dr. Jason Sulliman (Troy University) return with a Colorado, Mr. Creston Herron, Director of Orchestras at Klein session on the pedagogy of timing, and Dr. Anne Witt (University ISD (Houston, TX), and Dr. Rebecca MacLeod (University of of Alabama) discussed the ins and outs of working with North Carolina - Greensboro), Associate Professor of Music administrators. Daniel Kirk (Reinhardt University) joined us this Education and Director of the UNCG Sinfonia. We are excited to year with tips on how to maximize your ensemble’s performance by have such a talented line up of conductors to work with our playing more than just what’s on the page and James Rogers focused students! I also need to take this opportunity to thank the members his attention on our pre-service teachers with tips and advice on of the AOA Board for all their hard work in bringing our All-State finding and preparing for that first job interview. festival to fruition. Without such a great team effort we would not be able to put forth this opportunity for the students in our state. A big shout out also has to the go to the Baldwin Middle School I would also like to thank all of our District Chairs for their work Chamber Orchestra (Montgomery) for their lobby performance. in recruiting students and running the auditions for this year’s Directed by Laura Walters the ensemble played an eclectic program festival. that was very well received by those that attended. The AOA would like to encourage more of our state string/orchestra programs to Last, but not least, the AOA will be hosting our 5th Music consider applying to perform in 2020! Performance Assessment event on April 3 at Gadsden City High School. I would like to thank Keith LaBenne and the Gadsden City High School administration for their willingness to host us this year. More information about the event can be found on our website – www.alabamaorchestra association.org. MUSIC I hope that your year is filled with great music making, student Changes success, and professional satisfaction. Please reach out and let us know how the AOA can better serve you and your students. I look LIVES forward to seeing you at one of our remaining spring events. ® Regards, MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS MONTH® Guy Harrison, President 2020 Alabama Orchestra Association Learn how you can celebrate Important Spring Dates: your music program this March! Registration Deadline for MPA – Orchestra: March 6 Visit nafme.org/MIOSM #MIOSM | #MusicChangesLives MPA – Orchestra Event: Friday April 3 @ Gadsden City High School 10 February/March 2020



Young Musicians’ Camp June 7-12, 2020 BAND • CHOIR • GUITAR • PIANO STRING ORCHESTRA • MUSIC TECHNOLOGY SCHOLARSHIP REGISTRATION GENERAL REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 1 DEADLINE: May 8 (205) 665-6670 • montevallo.edu/ymc [email protected] • facebook.com/umymc

Rob Lyda, AMEA Advocacy Chair Changing Our Thinking about Advocacy I would be willing to bet many of you well-rounded education. thinking. Often, our advocacy efforts have received similar advice my focus on being reactive. Something grandmother gave to me – “In most Over the past few years, I have been happens or is about to happen that will circles, you should never discuss politics”. thinking about how we can move forward impact education or our programs and we Most people do not like it when teachers as an association to have a positive react. We rally the troops, tweet, share get political. In fact, during the last advocacy impact. One area that we can impassioned Facebook posts and try to legislative session I and a few other always work on is strengthening our ties enact quick changes. There will never be teachers engaged with one of our elected with other Arts Education organizations a time when we aren’t having to be officials on Twitter. Once he realized we in our state. There is definitely strength in reactive, but all of our advocacy efforts were not going to relent, he contacted our numbers. You may consider attending the shouldn’t be focused on reacting. When superintendent and suggested that we, Alabama Alliance for Arts Education’s we only think from a reactive stance, we teachers, needed to spend more time on statewide Arts Summit in Birmingham never are able to think beyond the present our students and classrooms and less time April 2 & 3. You can learn more about moment. on social media. Unfortunately for him, this opportunity at www.alartsalliance.org.. contacting our superintendent made us If we are lucky, we have periods where we even more determined in our advocacy Another area we can leverage is social can be proactive in our advocacy efforts. communication. media. When I speak to decision-makers, Each summer a delegation of Alabama I always point them to Twitter and music educators visit Washington, D.C. to While my grandmother’s advice above Facebook to see the amazing work being participate in NAfME’s National might be good for keeping friends and done in classrooms in Alabama. Seeing Assembly. One of the hallmark events of not gaining enemies, it is not realistic children engaged in meaningful the National Assembly is Hill Day where advice for today’s educators. Music experiences with music education tells the we are given the opportunity to meet with education philosopher Estelle Jorgenson story better than any of us can. Thank our Senators and Representatives. offers this perspective in her book, you to the teachers that have been telling NAfME usually has some kind of Transforming Music Education (2003, p. 117): your program’s story on social media. I national legislative ask, but primarily our “Teachers also need to be more skillful as would encourage others to join along by role is to make connections. After politicians, willing to work with their using our advocacy hashtag - attending the National Assembly for colleagues to demand and secure #ala4musiced. several years, we have built connections appropriate support, recognition, and with staffers in several legislative offices. remuneration for their work. Building Modes of Advocacy Thinking: In fact, some of these staffers follow us support for music or any sort of Reactive - Proactive - Predictive on Twitter and keep up with the music education comes at a price. It cannot be The one thing we can’t do is produce education story in Alabama. While left to others to defend. Rather, it additional time. The plague of most national advocacy is fantastic, we need to requires teachers who are apt, skillful and teachers is time. We seem to never have find ways to be more proactive in our courageous enough to insist that the enough time to accomplish our curricular state. requisite support be given to their work goals much less external advocacy goals. A new way I have been thinking about so that it can be done with integrity.” Advocacy efforts are usually one of those advocacy efforts is by being predictive. things we know we should do, but we just Thinking from a predictive stance requires I am not suggesting that we need to meet don’t have time to do. However, I believe us to look beyond the now and examine in Montgomery to picket. You do not that if we begin to approach our advocacy systems, people, organizations, and laws need to leave your classroom to run for efforts from different modes of thinking to predict what could happen. This is not public office. However, you do need to we can work smarter and find additional some crystal ball method of forecasting be involved in advocacy efforts for your time. advocacy, but rather a way to think individual programs and for all children in through the what-ifs of our advocacy Alabama. Music educators must develop Traditionally, thinking on advocacy has work. Every law that is passed has a clear vision and unify our voices as an primarily centered around two areas, but consequences; some of these are intended association to ensure every child in recently I have been expanding my consequences and some are unintended. Alabama receives a comprehensive and thinking to include a new mode of Predictive thinking requires us to continue ala breve 13

to be proactive while also forecasting Alabama Literacy Act could morph into dedicated advocates. Our collective short and long term impacts. something that denies children the energy is better served building opportunity to participate in music relationships, highlighting successes, and An example of predictive thinking can be education. Examining reading proficiency building advocacy capital. applied to the Alabama Literacy Act results on the 2018 Alabama Scantron (HB388) that passed during the 2019 Assessment, only 48% of 2019-2020 Final Thoughts legislative session. Similar literacy bills sixth-graders were proficient. What There are always going to be people that have passed in surrounding states over the would our secondary music programs in do not agree with us, that see our past several years. It is important to note, Alabama look like if 52% of the student advocacy efforts as self-serving, that do that with any bill, implementation is population weren’t even given the chance not know the value of providing a dependent on individual and/or group to enroll in music classes? These are, comprehensive music education, and do interpretation of a bill. Interpreting bills quite possibly, questions we will be faced not know that a well-rounded education is another example of proactive and with during the 2024-2025 school year includes music. There may even be some predictive advocacy work that our when our current first graders enter sixth that think music education will take away association should be involved in. To grade. As an association, we need to get from other areas. Some may claim that by predict the potential impacts of the ahead of the curve and begin predictive pushing music education we are short- Alabama Literacy Act, we need to advocacy work. sighted, are focusing on a frill, and do not examine how literacy bills in other states see the importance of children reading on have been implemented. What can we do? grade level. We must remain resolute in Modes of advocacy thinking do not exist our belief that every child in Alabama For instance, the Florida literacy bill in isolation. We will always have situations deserves a comprehensive music prevents students entering middle school that require us to react. However, if we education. from enrolling in elective courses if they are proactive in our efforts and are able to are not performing on grade level in math predict where we need to be then our Children in Alabama should not be and/or reading. A colleague shared with advocacy efforts will be more fruitful. I denied a well-rounded education because me that since Florida’s literacy bill was believe that we should focus 10% of our of zip code, poor legislation, monetary passed his beginning band enrollment advocacy work being reactive, 80% being deficits, or for any other reason. We are went from 150 sixth graders a year to only proactive, and 10% being predictive. not saying that reading, math, or any other 65 sixth graders being eligible to take Accomplishing our advocacy goals will subject is not important, but collectively, band. I am not sure if this is a direct take all of us working together. Below I we affirm that music education is just as result of language in the bill. I do know have listed some areas that, I believe, we important as other subjects. We know that, like the Alabama bill, students not should focus. Some of these areas will be that it doesn’t have to be an us versus proficient in reading by third grade are not easily accomplished personally and some them situation. There is room at the table allowed to progress to fourth grade. of these areas will take individual for everyone and every subject area. Restricting access to music education for divisions and the entire association to students not proficient in reading /math accomplish. It’s time that Alabama realizes every child by fifth grade may be a symptom of a deserves a comprehensive well-rounded poor interpretation of the bill. As you can see, the majority of our work education. It’s up to all of us to ensure Reactive Advocacy Proactive Advocacy Predictive Advocacy 10% 80% 10% Follow local and Connect with local and state decision-makers on a regular basis. Examine bills passed and see if similar state legislative issues and act Connect with music industry partners. bills have been passed in other states. when needed. Connect with other Arts and professional music organizations. Collaborate with advocacy experts at Host a Hill Day in Montgomery for music education. NAfME. Invite decision-makers into classrooms to see daily music learning. Collaborate with other MEAs on Invite decision-makers to concerts and other events. advocacy. Establish a clear advocacy plan that includes all divisions. Collaborate with other MEAs that have Connect with decision-makers through social media. received the CMA advocacy grant. Invite decision makers to AMEA for concerts and possibly a reception. Work to change the Foundation program Work with the Country Music Association (CMA) to obtain an advocacy grant. in Alabama to include a certified music Create a “Friend of Music Education” Award to be given at AMEA each year. teacher in ever school. Alabama first-graders of the 2019-2020 should center on proactive advocacy. that the next generation reaps the benefits school year are the inaugural There will be times that we must be of music education. I’m ready to keep consequential class of the Literacy Act. reactive. However, constant reactive fighting the good fight. I hope you will If we do not start being proactive with advocacy drains our focus, divides more join with me. our advocacy efforts, I am afraid that the than unites, and exhausts even the most 14 February/March 2020

Mildred Lanier - President, Higher Education Division “Our division is stronger and AMEA is stronger when we all identify our way to serve.” What do you get when you bring together education when it flows from the heart of are here to serve you and to serve with amazing scholars, showcase excellent those who love it and want to share it with you. When you perform, share your choral and instrumental talent, stay in a others. I am very proud of our AMEA. expertise by presenting a session or great location, and can’t wait to do it develop your students by presenting them again? What you get is the 2020 AMEA As President of the Higher Education on the division recital, you are serving. Professional Development Conference? Division for the past two years, I want to When you are willing to take a leadership There was no shortage of energy nor express my sincerest gratitude to my role, you are serving. And our division is enthusiasm from students and music colleagues and fellow Higher Education stronger and AMEA is stronger when we faculty as we all made our way to the Division Officers Dr. Katrina Phillips and all identify our way to serve. myriad of sessions and performances Dr. Michael Zelenak. Their collaborative from morning until night. spirit made it a pleasure to serve and the Thank you AMEA Officers and Higher Education Division stronger. Governing Board for modeling There was one highlight after another Soon it will be time for me to pass the outstanding leadership and service. It has throughout the conference because of the baton to Dr. Zelenak from Alabama State been my honor to serve as President and genuine passion of all faculty and University, and I have full confidence that to serve with each of you. I look forward students who attended. I was artistically our Higher Education Division will be in to identifying a new way to continue to inspired and intellectually stimulated, good hands. serve our extraordinary Alabama Music which is the power of music and Educators Association. The Higher Education Division Officers Vote in the AMEA Election - See pages 27 and 28 for candidate bios. Watch your email for a link to the ballot. Voting begins on March 1st and continues through April 1st Candidates for President-Elect Candidates for Recording Secretary Chris Cooper Rob Lyda Carrie Cruz Carla Gallahan ala breve 15

Betty Wilson -  President, Elementary/General Division News from the Elementary/General Division Conference Review District 8 – Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Coffee, We recently had the opportunity to “sharpen our saws.” I hope Conecuh, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, you enjoyed the sessions from our wonderful presenters at the Houston, and Pike recent AMEA Professional Development Conference. Our featured clinician, Jim Solomon, brought many tried and true Your District Chairs are: strategies for drumming and elementary music education, while District 1: Lea Hoppe & Viktoria Truesdail  Laura Butler and Janet Nelson helped us to expand our thinking District 2: Karla Hodges & Karen Morgan with music games that enhance literacy. Reading sessions by Lea District 3: Deanna Bell and Kate Donaldson Hoppe and singing rounds with Deanna Bell filled our hearts as District 4: Kristina Sisko we participated in making great music. We experienced and were District 5: Kari McIntosh inspired by an amazing performance from Hillcrest Elementary’s District 6: Christy Clark Choir, In Harmony, directed by Sarah McLendon. From the District 7: Alicia Luttrell & Joylynn Ruffin youngest (Dr. Julie Bannerman-Preschool Music) to the oldest District 8: Hilda Hagins (Dr. Rob Lyda and Dr. Becky Halliday- Creating Musical Communities) there was something for everyone to enjoy and We would also like to welcome Erica Lutz to our elementary learn from. Most importantly, it was a time for you to renew board. She will be filling the Hospitality Chair for the 2020 and your spirit and connect with other music educators who 2021 school years. Feel free to reach out to your district chairs understand what you do and why you do it. and executive board throughout the year to let us know what is happening in your school and school system. Please keep your I would like to thank our amazing Alabama Music Educators email updated with us: [email protected] . There are Association Elementary Board for their hard work. Their many important announcements in our Board Meeting minutes teamwork and dedication is second to none! Thank you for your including information about grant opportunities and the help in presenting a wonderful conference. In case you were not upcoming AMEA board elections (Dr. Rob Lyda and Carrie able to attend the conference, you may still view handouts and Cruz) and all of the upcoming workshops (AOSA, SHAKE, board meeting minutes through the Guidebook app and this link Young Voices festival, etc). You may also connect with other https://tinyurl.com/AMEAJan2020, respectively. District music educators using our AMEA Elementary and the Alabama reports are also available through the link above. In case you Music Educators Association Facebook pages. Remember, the don’t know what district you are located in, the District Chairs 2020 Elementary Music Festival will be October 16, 2020 at and Co-Chairs are by county as follows: Eastmont Baptist Church. Please tell Melissa McIntyre if you have suggestions for clinicians: [email protected]. The District I – Colbert, Cullman, Franklin, Jackson, 2020 AMEA Joint Workshop will immediately follow on Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Morgan, and October 17, 2020, also at Eastmont Baptist.  Please read those Winston minutes and take advantage of all the opportunities Alabama has to offer its elementary music educators. District 2 – Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Lamar, Marion, Pickens, Shelby, Tuscaloosa, and Walker Thank you again, for your hard work, dedication and continued support of the Elementary/General Division of the AMEA and District 3 – Jefferson  the children of Alabama. I can’t wait to see you soon. District 4 – Blount, Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, DeKalb, Etowah, Marshall, St. Clair Sincerely, District 5 – Chambers, Clay, Coosa, Elmore, Lee, Betty R Wilson, President Macon, Randolph, Russell, Talladega, and Tallapoosa Elementary/General Division District 6 – Autauga, Chilton, Choctaw, Clarke, Dallas, Hale, Lowndes, Marengo, Montgomery, Perry, Sumter, and Wilcox  District 7 – Baldwin, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe, and Washington 16 February/March 2020

General Music Reviews “Ring, Dance, Play: First Experiences with Choirchimes and Orff Schulwerk.” by: Griff Gall and Paul Weller A book review by Deanna Bell, Music Teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary East and Adjunct Professor at UAB A few years ago I attended a session that premiered this book at the Orff National Conference. I was so impressed, I bought the book. This book integrates choir chimes into Orff activities. It contains sections that include: Instrument Considerations: What do I have and what can I do with it? Range of your classroom bell sets Two and Three Octaves explanation Ringing Technique and Damping Technique History, Philosoph, Introduction, and Process of the Orff Approach This book divides the activities into: Primary (K-1); Intermediate (2-3); and Upper Elementary (4-5). It also includes an appendix with manipulatives that can be used with the books. Each activity includes a lesson plan and a detailed explanation of the activity. With permission from the authors, here is a sample lesson from the book: Musical Wishes to you! An educational festival Deanna Bell for elementary, middle, & high school students in ala breve band, choir, & orchestra 2020 dates: April 3 April 17 April 24 2021 dates: April 9 April 16 April 23 www.SMMFestival.com or call:1-855-766-3008 17

Megan Jones - President, Alabama Vocal Association AVA Updates AMEA Conference Recap Birmingham-Jefferson Convention All-State general membership meeting.” It was great to see many of you at the Complex. While I know there will be AMEA conference in January. We had some kinks to work out, I think that this The Executive Board has nominated some wonderful performances and move is going to open up a lot of Hilen Wilson for the office of President- sessions and also enjoyed having Michael opportunities for our students. One of Elect and has nominated our current Hanawalt from Florida State University the opportunities that I am most excited Recording Secretary, Margaret Heron, to join us as our clinician. I hope you were about is the ability to invite collegiate-level remain in her role for another term. all able to take some new strategies and choirs to perform for our students during Hilen Wilson is currently the choral ideas to use with your choirs. our convocation. This year, we are director at Paul W. Bryant High School thrilled to have as our guests the and the Tuscaloosa Fine Arts Academy. We also enjoyed performances by the University of Alabama and Birmingham She is in her seventh year of teaching at Alabama Honor Choir and the Alabama Concert Choir under the direction of Dr. the secondary level. Mrs. Wilson has All-State Show Choir. Thank you to all Brian Kittredge and the University of served as the District II Chairman for the of you who had students audition and Montevallo Concert Choir under the Alabama Vocal Association for the last 6 participate. The behavior, focus, and direction of Dr. Melinda Doyle. years. Hilen has several years’ experience work ethic of all of the students was with the Alabama American Choral excellent. The Honor Choir learned some Our festival schedule is slightly different Directors Association where she currently excellent repertoire with Dr. Gary this year due to our new location, so serves as the Children's Choir Repertoire Packwood in a really short amount of please make sure to look at it early and and Resources Chair. She has also served time and put on a great Friday night make plans especially for the meal breaks. on the Mentoring Committee, Summer concert. The Show Choir’s performance Thank you to Cathy Spence, director at Conference Committee, and Student on Saturday morning was definitely a the Alabama School of Fine Arts in Representative at the state level. highlight of the conference for me. downtown Birmingham, for compiling a Thank you to Ginny Coleman and list of nearby restaurants for us. The deadline to make additional Cameron Weiler for all of their nominations is February 20. organization and planning and to AVA Officer Elections Nominations may be sent to the AVA everyone who helped out behind the The AVA Bylaws, Article I, Section 1.1 board at [email protected]. The scenes. states “A nominating committee vote will take place during the AVA consisting of the current year’s Executive general membership meeting on Friday, Bylaw Change Board will select one qualified candidate March 6 at 8:45am during the All-State During the general membership meeting (Constitution Article VI, Section 6.1) for Choir Festival. at AMEA, the membership voted to the office of President-Elect and one change Article VII, Section 7.1 of the qualified candidate for the office of I hope that your semester is filling with AVA Bylaws to read “The Executive Recording Secretary. These candidates great music and memory making with Board will appoint All-State adjudicators. will be presented to the Board at the AVA your students and I look forward to Adjudicators will not judge their own board meeting at AMEA. Upon approval, seeing you all very soon at All-State! If students.” The membership asked the the candidates will be presented at the you have any comments, suggestions, or AVA board to create qualifications for All- general membership meeting at AMEA at concerns, please contact me at State adjudicators. The board will work which time nominations of qualified [email protected]. on developing the list of qualifications candidates will be accepted for a during the AVA summer board meeting predetermined time period. The Thank you, and we welcome any feedback from the membership will have time between Meg membership regarding this. AMEA and All-State to voice questions and concerns regarding candidates. All-State Choral Festival Officers shall be elected by a plurality of I am really excited about our move to the those members present and voting at the 18 February/March 2020

2019 All-State Choir Clinicians Jing Ling Tam, High School SATB Carolina Baroque Orchestra in performances Naxos, which was hailed by infodad.com as a JingLing-Tam from the of the Magnificat by J. S. Bach. As a performer, recording “sung with great beauty of sound University of Texas at he has been a featured soloist in Carnegie and excellent articulation ... a CD to cherish” Arlington has garnered Hall, and was choir soloist for the Grammy- and by National Medal of Arts recipient international recognition winning Oregon Bach Festival choir as well as Morten Lauridsen as “superb, a splendid through her engagements the International Bach Academy, conducted recording, highly recommended.” During her in North America, Europe by Helmuth Rilling. In addition to his work at work with the Westminster Symphonic Choir, andSoutheast Asia. One of Wingate and with the Charlotte Master Dr. Quist collaborated with the New York America's most sought Chorale, he serves as Choral Conductor at Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, and the after choral conductors, Covenant Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, Dresden Staatskapelle. She also serves as Professor Ling-Tam has North Carolina. As a clinician, Dr. Potter has Chorus Master for the Philadelphia Orchestra conducted state-wide festival choirs for Chorus. Dr. Quist’s role as Chorus Master for conducted All-StateChoirs and Honor Choirs NAfME and ACDA in Florida, Georgia, the premiere of Toshio Hosokawa’s opera throughout the United States and appeared as Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Matsukaze at the Spoleto Festival USA and the conductorand clinician at the American and West Virginia as well as in Nairobi, Kenya Lincoln Center Festival garnered praise from Choral Directors Association's regional and and Johannesburg, South Africa. His The New York Times and Charleston City Paper, national conventions. Her standing-room-only compositions are published by Hinshaw who described the chorus’ performance as workshops have held educators Music, Choristers Guild, and Santa Barbara “beautifully prepared, gripping,” a “gossamer andconductors spellbound with her inventive, Music Publishing and he is founder and editor web of voices” and “bridging the vocal and humorous, and highly creative approach to of Wingate University Music Press, which instrumental textures with perfect intonation.” vocal and conducting techniques. Under her publishes Folk Songs of South Africa, a series of Dr. Quist was Director of the Westminster direction, UTA Chamber Singers has pedagogical resources that he co-authored Vocal Institute, a highly regarded summer performed in Mexico, Canada, Taiwan, Hong with Dalene Hoogenhout, conductor of the program for talented high school students, Kong and Austria. They have also appeared Wits Choir of Johannesburg. He holds and Director of Choral Activities at San José on the programs of regional and degrees from Florida State University, State University. Her other honors include the nationalAmerican Choral Directors Portland State University, and the University James Mulholland National Choral Award and Association conventions and the Texas Music of North Carolina at Greensboro resides in the Audrey Davidson Early Music Award. An Educators Conventions. A native of Taiwan, Charlotte with his wife, Heather, and their active guest conductor and clinician, her she holds advanced degrees in Piano children, Syl and Calvin. recent and upcoming appearances include the Performance and VocalPerformance from the NAfME All National Honor Choir, All State New England Conservatory and the Amanda Quist, High School SSA High School & Collegiate Honor Choirs University of NorthTexas. In addition to her Dr. Amanda Quist is the throughout the country, and serving as a duties at UTA, Professor Ling-Tam is the Director of Choral headliner for music conferences in the US and Artistic Director/Conductor of the American Activities for the Frost abroad. Dr. Quist is the National ACDA Chamber Choir and Associate School of Music at the Repertoire & Resources Coordinator for Conductor/ChorusMaster/Principal Coach University of Miami. Dr. Collegiate Activities, and her choral series is Pianist with the Fort Worth Opera Quist was previously Chair published through Walton Music. Association. Her past conducting of the Conducting, Organ, appointments include the American Institute and Sacred Music Cara Tasher, Middle School Treble of Musical Studies (Graz, Austria), and the Department, and Associate Dr. Cara Tasher has served Arlington Choral Society (Arlington, Texas). Professor of Conducting as Director of Choral A brilliant pianist and mezzo-soprano, she is Studies at the University of in demand for vocal recitals, chamber music at Westminster Choir College. Dr. Quist is the North Florida since 2006. and oratorios. recipient of Westminster Choir College of There, she conducts the Rider University’s 2014 Distinguished Chorale and Chamber Kenney Potter, High School TTBB Teaching Award, the 2018 Mazzotti Award for Singers, teaches the Kenney Potter is the Women’s Leadership, and she is the Carol F. conducting curriculum Director of Choral Spinelli Conducting Fellow. Dr. Quist was including the Summer Activities at Wingate recently invited to be a conductor for the UNF Conductor’s Studio University and serves as the ACDA International Exchange Program, Artistic Director of the clinician for the 2019 ASPIRE International and Choral Artists, and oversees the choral Charlotte Master Chorale. Youth Music Festival in Australia, juror for the department and its leadership team. At UNF, At Wingate, he oversees a Penabur International Choir Festival in she was awarded the 2010 Outstanding program that is recognized Indonesia, and clinician for the Interkultur Undergraduate Teaching Award, the 2016 for its artistic excellence. International Choral Festival. Westminster Outstanding International Leadership Award, His choirs have received Kantorei, winner of the 2018 American Prize and in 2019, received a faculty scholarship in College & University Choral Performance, grant for her work with the Jacksonville wide-spread acclaim including winning the has performed at the American Choral SINGS! Refugee Chorus and inclusion Grand Prix for best choir in the Pärnu Directors Association’s (ACDA) Eastern training. In addition to her work at UNF, she International Choral Festival in Pärnu, Division Conference, Boston Early Music collaborates frequently as Director Huesped Estonia. This year, he will conduct the Festival, American Handel Festival, and with the Opera de Bellas Artes in Mexico City. Charlotte Master Chorale in performances of Interkultur. The choir recently released its first She has performed and recorded with Brahms Ein Deutsches Requiem and Handel’s commercial recording, Lumina, distributed by conductors Claudio Abbado, Daniel Messiah as well as collaborate with the North ala breve 19

Barenboim, Christoph Eschenbach, James her to over ten states and over twenty “Hometown Hero” by KOLR, Springfield Levine, Robert Shaw and Sir Georg Solti. countries for concerts, competitions, festivals, Rotary Award for Outstanding Community Tasher has been professionally associated with and workshops. Global and cultural Service, honoree for Springfield Business the Atlanta Symphony Chorus, Chicago competency is a focal point of Tasher’s Journal’s 40 Under 40, quarterfinalist for the Symphony Chorus, Conspirare, Jacksonville teaching, and she tours internationally with GRAMMY National Music Educator Award, Symphony Orchestra, Portugal's Vocalizze her choral ensembles on a regular basis. and the recipient of the Missouri Choral Festival, Trinity Choir-Wall Street, Xavier Directors Association Podium Award. aniel’s University, and the Young People’s Chorus of Daniel Gutierrez, Middle School Mixed speaking engagements include presenting for New York City. Her training took place in the Daniel is a choir director at TEDx, presenting for regional and National Glen Ellyn Children’s Chorus, at the Nixa High and Nixa Junior ACDA(American Choral Directors University of Cincinnati College- High School. Daniel is an Association) conferences, and other choral Conservatory of Music, University of Texas active conductor, clinician workshops nationally. Daniel's Choral at Austin, Paris IV-La Sorbonne, and and presenter throughout ensembles have won music festivals and have Northwestern University. Dr. Tasher is highly the country. Daniel has received numerous invitations to perform at active within the American Choral Directors received accolades for his the Missouri Music Educator Association Association, International Federation of work as a teacher, being Conference, Southwest American Choral Choral Music, and the National Collegiate named Teacher of the Year Directors Association Conference, the Choral Organization in various leadership for Springfield Public National Conference for MS/JH Choral capacities. Proficient in several languages, Music, and the National American Choral Tasher's engagements as singer, conductor, Schools and Southwest Missouri (also a Directors Association Conference. master teacher, and adjudicator, have brought finalist for the state TOTY award), Springfield 2020 AVA All-State Choral Festival Schedule Thursday, March 5, 2020- 12:00-12:45pm Student Registration in Assigned Rehearsal Rooms 1:15-2:15pm Convocation, Concert Hall MS Treble, North Meeting Rooms G-I 2:30-4:15pm MS Mixed, North Meeting Rooms C-E MS Treble, North Meeting Rooms G-I ( HS SSA, Forum A-B final MS rehearsal) HS TTBB, Forum Theater MS Mixed, North Meeting Rooms C-E HS SATB, Forum G-I (final MS rehearsal) SSA Rehearsal, Forum A-B 12:00-2:00pm Director Registration, Forum C TTBB Rehearsal, Forum Theater SATB Dress Rehearsal, Concert Hall 1:00-4:30pm Rehearsal, assigned rehearsal rooms 4:30-6:00pm 4:30-7:00pm Dinner Break SSA Dress Rehearsal, Concert Hall TTBB Rehearsal, Forum Theater (cont.) 7:00-9:30pm Rehearsal, assigned rehearsal rooms 7:00pm SATB Rehearsal, Forum G-I 11:00pm Curfew 7:30pm Call Time for Middle School Concert Middle School Concert, BJCC Concert Hall Friday, March 6, 2020- Saturday, March 7, 2020- 8:30-9:45am MS Treble Rehearsal, North Meeting Rooms G-I 10:00-11:15am 8:45-9:45am MS Mixed Dress Rehearsal, Concert Hall HS SSA, Forum A-B SSA Warm-Up, Forum A-B HS TTBB, Forum Theater TTBB Dress Rehearsal, Concert Hall HS SATB, Forum G-I SATB Warm-Up, Forum G-I AVA General Membership Meeting, 11:15am Doors Open to Audience North Meeting Rooms G-I 12:00pm High School Concert 10:00-11:15am MS Mixed Rehearsal, North Meeting Rooms C-E MS Treble Dress Rehearsal, Concert Hall HS SSA, Forum A-B (cont.) HS TTBB, Forum Theater (cont.) HS SATB, Forum G-I (cont.) 11:15am-1:15pm Lunch Break 20 February/March 2020

AMEA Industry/Institutional Membership 2019-20 AMEA would like to express appreciation to the following partners who have joined AMEA in our efforts to promote music education in Alabama. Please support these industry/institutional members who support you as music educators! All4One Fundraising LLC 1205 Randolph Ave SE, Huntsville, AL 35801 Arts Music Shop 3030 East Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36116 Halftime USA Band Front Camps P.O. Box 66, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Huntsville Youth Orchestra 116 Shalerock Dr, Madison, AL 35756 JW Pepper 9053 Riverside Pkwy, Lithia Springs, GA 30122 Southeastern Performance Apparel 142 S. Woodburn Drive, Dothan, AL 36305 Troy University 109 Long Hall, University Ave, Troy, AL 36082 Southern Performances P.O. Box 6852, Gulf Shores, AL 36547 University of Alabama at Birmingham 950 13th Street S., Birmingham, AL 35294 University of Alabama in Huntsville 301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, AL 35899 University of South Alabama LPAC 1072, 5751 USA Drive South, Mobile, AL 36688 ala breve 21

Terry Ownby- President, Alabama Bandmasters Association “We are ABA and together we can do great things!!” This year’s conference was outstanding with As we have just finished district all-state All-State and the All-State Solo Festival so many opportunities for professional auditions, we must learn from the process to registration will begin on February 7 and close development. Wednesday began with the ABA benefit our students. For any ABA event, read on March 1. Please make sure you read the Executive planning meeting, the AMEA the handbook on that section. The most directions. For the all-state festival please board and ABA board meetings to finalize the recent edition can be found on myamea.org. I provide PARENT EMAILS for each student conference and planning for the future. Thank recently reread the handbook and still found registered. Registration for these events is not you to the bands who presented outstanding things that I needed to know about how we complete until you print the invoice and mail concerts: Mortimer Jordan High School – do what we do. Make sure that you are the check to the executive secretary by the Craig Cagle, Pizitz Middle School – Kim Bain informed so that you can be the best advocate deadline. and Leah Seng, Wicksburg High School for your student and so that you stay on top Symphonic Band, Lori Hart, Grissom High of deadlines and procedures that are in place This is your association. Let us all strive to School Symphonic Band 1, Theo Vernon, that help us all operate in a professional make it better so that we can serve the James Clemens High School Percussion manner. students and the bands in our state better. We Ensemble, Keith Anderson, Albertville are ABA and together we CAN do great Middle School Advanced Band, Missy Lindley, MPA is our next big event for the association. things!! See you at All-State!! and Nathan Haskew, Tuscaloosa County High Take a moment a look over the new stage and School Wind Ensemble, Mike Guzman and sight-reading sheets that will be utilized this Terry Emily Gray, and the Troy University year. The UIL sight-reading criteria are Symphony Band, Dr. Mark Walker. Many available on myamea.org site so that you can thanks to all the clinicians for sharing your know what will be expected of your band in wonderful talents. As you begin preparing for the sight-reading, we well as a guidelines page MPA consider applying to perform next year. that helps guide you through the process used We have great bands in this state at all levels. in the room. If you have any questions about The deadline for this application is June 1. the process, reach out to someone who has been through it and ask questions. Legislation 2020-5 Legislation 2020-6 Legislation 2020-7 ABA Redistricting Proposal Redistricting Proposal 4-Year Cycle Submitted by Blake Ferguson 1. Move Limestone County to District 3 In reviewing student participation from each Rationale: The ABA executive secretary’s salary 2. Move Morgan County to District 3 county, we developed a map that helps to distribute does not match other state organization secretary 3. Move Lamar County to District 5 students. The committee elected to put forward a salaries. The current annual salary for the AVA 4. Move Fayette County to District 5 proosal to allow the board to adjust the map. executive secretary position is $13,000. To better Remove Article 19 Add align the salary of the ABA executive secretary, I propose that the annual salary for the ABA The Alabama Bandmasters Association Board of executive secretary be $13,000. Directors will evaluate the need to assign counties in the 8 districts every 4 years giving emphasis to Delete: Article VII. Duties of Officers student participation in each county. The Board of Directors, by a two-thirds majority vote, will Section 7. The Purpose of the ABA assign counties in the 8 districts every 4 years. Executive Secretary Rationale: The Executive Secretary shall receive an -The words “student participation” encompasses honorarium not to exceed $10,000.00 all state-sanctioned events. annually. The Board of Directors shall set the salary. 4 Years: Replace with: Article VII. Duties of Officers -All-State is a 4-year cycle. Review data from the 4 Section 7. The Purpose of the ABA years. Executive Secretary -If a District/County has 1 poor year of The Executive Secretary shall receive an participation, it has less impact. honorarium not to exceed $13,000.00 annually. The Board of Directors shall set the salary. 22 February/March 2020

2020 All-State Band Clinicians Red Band Blue Band Colonel Thomas Palmatier culminated a Corey Spurlin serves as Marching Band Director and distinguished military career spanning more than 37 Associate Professor at Auburn University. In years as the Leader and Commander of The United addition to his work with the Sudler-winning States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” the largest Auburn Marching Band, Dr. Spurlin conducts the military music unit in the United States and was the Concert Band and teaches courses in music history senior musician in the U.S. Armed Forces. He is and marching band techniques. Under his direction, now able to dedicate his efforts to music education the Auburn University Marching Band, with 380 and to maximizing the success of arts organizations students, has the largest membership in university as a clinician, guest conductor, and consultant. history and has performed twice at the Southeastern Previously he commanded the Musical Ambassadors of the Army, The Conference Championship and BCS National Championship Games, U.S. Army Field Band, being the first Officer to command the Army’s as well as the Sugar Bowl, Chick-fil-a Bowl, Outback Bowl, two top premier bands. Other postings included the founding Birmingham Bowl, and overseas at the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Commandant (dean equivalent) of the U.S. Army School of Music, Dublin, Ireland. Commander and Conductor of the U.S. Army Europe Band and In addition to his work at Auburn, Dr. Spurlin serves as the Southern Chorus, Commander and Conductor of The U.S. Continental Army Division Chair for the National Band Association, and he is active Band, and Associate Bandmaster of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s throughout the U.S. as a conducting and marching band clinician and Own” where he directed The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets and The adjudicator. He has conducted collegiate honor bands at the University Army Brass Band. Colonel Palmatier is an active clinician, guest of Georgia (JanFest), West Virginia University, and Southern Illinois conductor, and consultant on organizational structures and leadership University, and he recently served as a marching band adjudicator for around the world. He was founding Music Director of the Virginia the University of Missouri and for UIL Texas State Finals in the Alamo International Tattoo, Producer/Director of the Rochester Dome in San Antonio. He is published in four volumes of Teaching International Tattoo, and led the Dominion Brass Band to the Honors Music Through Performance in Band, in the National Band Division championship of the North American Brass Band Association Journal, and he is a contributing author for the marching Association. He was Director of Symphonic and Jazz Bands at the band textbook The System by Gary Smith. In addition, he serves as the Czech Youth Music Camp and a Guest Conductor at the Blue Lake head drill design clinician and lecturer at the Smith Walbridge Camps Fine Arts Camp. He is also a Conn-Selmer Educational Clinician and at Eastern Illinois University. writes a monthly column for SBO Magazine. Colonel Palmatier has received numerous awards and recognitions. Military awards include Middle Schoool Band the Army Distinguished Service Medal, three awards of the Legion of Randall Standridge (b.1976) received his Bachelor’s Merit, and seven Meritorious Service Medals. He was the first Army of Music Education from Arkansas State University. Music Officer to earn both Parachutist and Air Assault badges and  During this time, he studied composition with Dr. earned the right to wear a Combat Service Identification Badge for Tom O’Connor, before returning to Arkansas State service in El Salvador and Iraq. He is a member of the American University to earn his Master’s in Music Bandmasters Association and a Director of the John Phillip Sousa Composition, studying with Dr. Tom O’Connor and Foundation, as well as an Honorary Life Member and Past President Dr. Tim Crist. In 2001, he began his tenure as of the North American Brass Band Association. He has been inducted Director of Bands at Harrisburg High School in Harrisburg, Arkansas.  into several “Halls of Fame” for his achievements. He left this post in 2013 to pursue a career as a full-time composer and marching band editor for Grand Mesa Music Publishers.  Mr. White Band Standridge is currently published by Grand Mesa Music, Alfred Music, Brian Balmages is an award-winning composer and FJH Music, Wingert-Jones Music, Band Works Publications, Twin conductor whose music has been  performed Towers Music, and Northeastern Music Publications.  Mr. Standridge’s throughout the world with  commissions ranging music is performed internationally.   He has had numerous works from elementary schools to professional orchestras. selected to the J.W. Pepper’s editor’s choice. His composition Snake World premieres have included prestigious venues Charmer, published by Grand Mesa Music, was included in Teaching such as Carnegie Hall, the  Kennedy Center, Music through Performance in Band Vol. 8, and his work Gently Blows and Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. His music was also the Summer Wind is included in Teaching Music Through Performance in performed as part of the 2013 Presidential Inaugural Middle School Band.  His works Steel, Gadget, Snake Charmer, The Prayer Service, which  was attended by both Rowan Tree, Still Still Still, That Old Hound Dog Rag, Danse President  Obama and Vice President Biden. He is a  recipient of Bohémien, Aggressivo, When the Spring Rain Begins to Fall, Danse the prestigious A. Austin Harding Award from the American School Carnivale, Ruckus, Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Angelic Band Directors  Association and in 2016 was awarded the Celebrations, Extremis, Darklands Legends, DarkHeart, Companion James  Madison University Distinguished  Alumni Award from the of My Voice, Kinetic Dances, Brave Spirit, Frogs, Under the Cherry School of Visual and Performing Arts (the first year the award was Blossoms, Dark Ride, Four: On a Remix of Beethoven, Imaginarium, given). In the same year, he was commissioned by his other alma mater, and In the Court of the King have been performed at the Midwest the University of Miami, to compose music for the inauguration of Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.  In addition to his career as a composer, Mr. the institution’s 6th president, Dr. Julio Frenk. Currently, he is Director Standridge is active as a clinician.  He is also in demand as a drill of Instrumental Publications for The FJH Music Company and designer, music arranger, and colorguard designer for the marching Assistant Director of Bands and Orchestras at Towson University.  arts, as well as a freelance artist/photographer and writer.  He lives in Jonesboro, Arkansas with his family. ala breve 23

2020 ABA All-State Band Festival Schedule Wednesday, April 22 Solo Festival, University of Alabama at Huntsville Solo Festival Check in 8:00 A.M. Preliminary Competition 8:30 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. State Solo Festival Finals Concert 7:00 P.M. Band Hosts Meeting 9:00 P.M. Thursday, April 23 - All-State Auditions and Meetings East Hall 2 3:00-8:00 P. M. Exhibits Open (Directors visit our event sponsors) Director’s meeting (all directors must attend) Chapel FBC Huntsville 12:00-12:45 P. M. Tabulation room (assigned personnel only) Warm-Up Parlor 1:00-5:30 P. M. All-State Auditions Lifecenter & Fellowship Hall 12:00-5:00 P. M. FBC Huntsville 1:00-5:00 P.M. ALL-STATE BAND REHEARSALS 6:30-9:30 P. M. East Hall 1 Red Band East Hall 3 White Band North Hall 3 Blue Band North Hall 1 Middle School Band ABA Executive Board Meeting Embassy Suites 7:00-9:00 P. M. Audition results will be posted at the entrance to each band’s rehearsal location immediately following the chair placement auditions. CURFEW FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS - 11:00 P. M. Friday, April 24 East Hall 2 8:30-11:30 A. M. and 12:00-5:30 P.M. EXHIBITS OPEN ALL-STATE BAND REHEARSALS East Hall 1 Red Band 8:30A.M.-12:00 PM East Hall 3 White Band 8:30A.M.-12:00 PM 8:15 A.M.-11:45 A.M. North Hall 3 Blue Band 8:15 A.M.-11:45 A.M. North Hall 1 Middle School Band North Hall Salon 3 8:30-9:15 A.M. ABA General Business meeting North Hall Salon 3 9:30-10:15 P.M. All State Percussion process interest meeting North Hall Salon 3 10:30-11:30 A.M. ABAFEST 2.0 North Hall 2 11:45 A.M.-1:30 P.M Lunch for participating students South Hall Ballroom 1 12:00-1:00 P.M. Phi Beta Mu Luncheon Rehearsal Locations (See above) 1:15-5:00 P.M. Blue Band and Middle School Band Rehearsals Rehearsal Locations (See above) 1:30-5:00 P.M. White Band and Red Band Rehearsals North Hall Salon 3 1:30-2:30 P.M. Marching Band Committee Panel Discussion TBA 3:30-4:30 P.M. MPA Adjudicators committee meeting TBA 3:30-4:30 P.M. ABAFest 2.0 BOARD ONLY University of North Alabama Wind Ensemble and Studio Lab Band Concert - First Baptist Church 8:30-9:30 P.M CURFEW FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS - 11:00 P. M. Saturday, April 25 VBC Propst Arena Middle School Rehearsal 8:00-8:45 A. M. Blue Band Rehearsal 8:45-9:30 A. M. White Band Rehearsal 9:30-10:15 A. M. Red Band Rehearsal 10:15-11:00 A. M. Von Braun Center North Hall Salon 1 9:00-9:30 A. M. ABA Board Meeting (Directors-please remain outside until the board meeting has concluded) North Hall Salon 1 9:45-10:45 A.M. ABA General Business Meeting VBC Propst Arena 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm All-State Band Festival Concert (All Bands) 24 February/March 2020



CONFERENCE PHOTOS 26 February/March 2020

AMEA AWARDS and Recognition Deanna Bell is presented the Lacey Powell Outstanding Music Educator Award 2020 AMEA Hall of Fame Inductee Melinda Bobo accepts the AMEA Hall Harry McAfee (center) with AMEA of Fame plaque on behalf of her late President Greg Gumina and husband, Jerry Bobo Immediate Past-President Susan Smith FAME Scholarship recipient Jackson Tucker AMEA Young Composer Finalists National Board Certified Teachers (Class of 2019) AMEA Honor Roll Kirsten Hill, Dakota Bromley, Karla Hodges, and Erica Lutz John M. Long - 70 Years John Cooper - 30 Years accepted by Mrs. Mary Lynn Long David Curren - 30 Years Alabama Bicentennial Band Staff John Foster - 30 Years David Allinder, Mason McFarland, Stephanie Ezell, David Raney, Glenn Spiller - 55 Years Thomas Francis - 30 Years Anne Witt - 55 Years Martha Jean Harris - 30 Years Regina Raney, Rusty Logan, Garry Taylor, Robert W. Smith, Detrick Hodges - 30 Years Andy Meadows, Greg Gumina, and Chris Lindley James Knight - 50 Years Clarence Janes - 30 Years Wanda Thompson - 50 Years Russell Logan - 30 Years ala breve Jane Powell - 30 Years Allen Gillespie - 45 Years Regina Raney - 30 Years Carl Kauffman - 40 Years Leslie Welker - 30 Years Michael Stough - 40 Years Carl Hancock - 25 Years David Brewer - 35 Years Curtis Hollinger - 25 Years Melissa Lindley - 25 Years Rick Coggin - 35 Years Damon McAllister - 25 Years Thomas Holland - 35 Years Clayton Sloan - 25 Years Pam Smith - 35 Years Randell Wallace - 35 Years David Bearden - 30 Years Linda Byrd - 30 Years 27

DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC MUSIC THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR WORLD

Candidates for AMEA President-Elect Christopher D. Cooper is in his twenty- Rob Lyda is the music teacher at Cary fifth year of teaching and has been at Woods Elementary in Auburn, AL and Homewood City Schools for the past an adjunct instructor at Auburn twenty. This year Mr. Cooper has taken University. He has taught a variety of over the 400-member Homewood instrumental, vocal, and general music Patriot Band at Homewood High courses for students in grades K- School. The past twenty years Mr. undergraduate. Dr. Lyda received the Cooper has led the Middle School Band B.M.E. from Troy University and the Program in Homewood which is made M.Ed. and Ph.D. in Music Education up of over 575 students from a school from Auburn University. In addition to of 916. They have performed for the his academic degrees, Dr. Lyda has Alabama Music Educators Conference completed certification studies in in 2002, 2006, 2012, and 2016 and the Kodály, World Music Drumming, Southeastern United States Concert TI:ME, and is an Orff-Schulwerk Band Clinic at Troy University in 2003 (Levels I-III) certified teacher at the and 2006. Homewood High School Band has grown significantly since Master level. Dr. Lyda regularly presents research on technology Mr. Cooper’s arrival in Homewood, from 140 students to now around integration, creativity, and general music education at state, regional, 411 students in the high school band program. Next year the and national conferences. He is a sought-after clinician for professional Homewood Patriot Band will be featured in the Tournament of Roses development workshops, particularly for topics related to elementary Parade in Pasadena, California. music education. Ensembles under his direction have performed at Walt Disney World, The Alabama Association of School Boards In 2014, Mr. Cooper was chosen as the Homewood Grown Impact conference, and throughout the local community. Currently, he is the Teacher of the year by the Homewood City Schools Foundation of director of the Auburn Ukulele Band. His efforts have been recognized Education. In 2009, Mr. Cooper was chosen to be the guest clinician through awards that include Teacher of the Year at the school and for the Association of China and Mongolia International schools district level, the Phi Kappa Phi Love of Learning Award, and the Honor Band held in Tianjin, China. During his 10-day stay in China, Alabama Music Educators Association’s 2019 Lacey Powell Mr. Cooper rehearsed the honor band and worked with several Outstanding Music Educator. His writings can be found in the Ala International Schools while in Tianjin. In 2004, Mr. Cooper was chosen Breve, General Music Today, and the International Handbook for as the Teacher of the Year at Homewood Middle School, Homewood Middle-Level Learners. He has contributed to curricular materials for City Schools, and 1 of 8 finalists for the State of Alabama Secondary NAfME, the Alabama Learning Exchange, and the Alabama Course of Teacher of the Year. Studies for Fine Arts (music). For three orchestral seasons, he has created the Teacher’s Guide for the Alabama Symphony’s Young In 1993, Mr. Cooper received his Bachelor of Music Education degree Persons Concerts. Throughout his career, Dr. Lyda has been a from Auburn University. While at Auburn Mr. Cooper was the passionate advocate for both music education and music educators. In percussion section leader for three years, undergraduate assistant for the fall of 2000, he founded and hosted the first CMENC (now one year, and President of Phi Mu Alpha. Mr. Cooper then completed CNAfME) Collegiate Summit, which is still a well-attended workshop his Masters of Music Education from the University of Southern for pre-service music educators across Alabama. Currently, he hosts Mississippi in 1996. Mr. Cooper is an active band and percussion the East Alabama General Music Workshop each fall to provide high adjudicator throughout the Southeast United States and has conducted quality free professional development for music educators. In order to over thirty Middle School and Junior High Honor Bands throughout fund education initiatives for school and community groups, he has the Southeast United States. His wife Karen is a 2nd-grade teacher at written and received over $500,000 in grant funding. During the 2016 Shades Cahaba Elementary School in Homewood, he has a daughter – 2017 school year, Dr. Lyda was the music education representative Molly Kathryn (18) who is a Freshman at the University of North on the Alabama State Superintendent’s cabinet. In addition, he Alabama, and son Mason (16) who is a percussionist in the 10th Grade. supports music education at the state and national level as a member of the NAfME President’s cabinet, Advocacy Chair of AMEA, and Vote! as a delegate to NAfME’s National Assembly in Washington, D.C. The AMEA Online Election Dr. Lyda holds memberships in the Alabama Music Educators Association (AMEA), National Association for Music Education begins March 1st and ends April 1st. (NAfME), American Orff Schulwerk Association (AOSA), College Music Society, Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, the Watch for an email with a link to the ballot Organization of American Kodály Educators (OAKE), and the National Band Association. Currently, Dr. Lyda serves as the National or visit myamea.org Chair of NAfME’s Council for General Music Education, Secretary of the Elementary Division of the AMEA, the Advocacy Chair of the AMEA, and is on the advisory board of Teaching Music Magazine. ala breve 29

Candidates for AMEA Recording Secretary Dr. Carla A. Gallahan is Assistant Carrie Cruz is a music teacher, choir Director of the John M. Long School director and beginning band director for of Music and Associate Professor of Jefferson County Schools. She works at Music Education at Troy University. As both North Highland Elementary and a member of the faculty at Troy Brighton Schools. Carrie earned her University, her responsibilities include Bachelor of Science in Music Education teaching music education courses, from Auburn University in 2001 and her instructing the horn studio, and serving Master of Education from Arizona as Coordinator for Undergraduate State University in 2003. Carrie was Music Education Internship. She also awarded National Board Certification in serves as the Executive Director for the Early and Middle Childhood Music in Southeastern United States Concert 2009 and renewed in 2018. She received Band Clinic and Honor Bands held at Orff Levels I, II, and III Certification Troy University. Dr. Gallahan received from Samford University and Kodály the Bachelor of Music Education Levels I and II Certification from The University of Montevallo. Degree, Master of Education in Music, and the Doctor of Philosophy Carrie has won thousands of dollars of grant money for her classroom in Music Education from Auburn University. Her teaching background and for the Alabama Chapter of AOSA. She recently won a large set includes eighteen years experience as a band director in Alabama public of Orff instruments for the Alabama Orff Chapter from the American schools. Dr. Gallahan is the Recording Secretary for the Alabama Center for Elementary Music and Movement. She has been on the Music Educators Association and former chairman of District VI of executive board of directors for the Alabama Chapter of AOSA for the Alabama Bandmasters Association. She was selected to Who’s Who ten years. She is the current President of the chapter. Carrie enjoys Among America’s Teachers and Outstanding Young Women of spending time with her husband and two sons and playing trombone. America, has been chosen as Auburn Junior High School Teacher of She is a member and guest conductor of the Birmingham Wind the Year, Auburn City Schools Secondary Teacher of the Year, and has Ensemble. served as a clinician and adjudicator throughout the Southeast. Her professional affiliations include the National Association for Music Educators, Alabama Music Educators Association, Alabama Bandmasters Association, and Phi Beta Mu. YOUR STUDENTS COULD BE PART OF AN ENSEMBLE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME! 2020 All-National Honor Ensembles Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center Orlando, Florida November 5–8, 2020 Audition Deadline: May 1, 2020, 11:59 PM ET nafme.org/ANHE 30 February/March 2020

Jackson Vaughan, President, Alabama cNAfME AMEA’s collegiate chapter of NAfME has had a tremendously collegiate luncheon to discuss the past year and elect a new successful semester! Through the cooperation of the sixteen board to serve on the 20-21 collegiate executive board. The new chapters in our state, the collegiate division has been able to board members are as follows: jump-start the new ‘Buddy Chapter’ system, hold the annual Collegiate Summit and attend AMEA’s 2020 Professional President: Jackson Vaughan, Samford University Development Conference. Vice President/President-Elect: Emma Tosney, The Buddy Chapter system was started to give collegiate The University of Alabama Secretary: Grace members the opportunity to network with students from Waldrop, University of North Alabama neighboring universities. The chapters are broken up by size Treasurer: Jacob Russell, University of North Alabama and geographical location. This also gives chapters the opportunity to see what is working well for other chapters and Looking forward to the semester ahead, the executive board is to be able to grow from that. All in all, we have seen a major planning on creating new forms of communication between spike in unity between collegiate members from neighboring chapters. A monthly newsletter highlighting individual chapters, universities and look forward to seeing how the Buddy Chapter workshops, and other events will begin in February. The system continues to grow. collegiate division will also continuously update its social media presence (@cnafme_al) and focus on what is happening within On October 27, 2019, the annual Collegiate Summit was hosted the individual chapters in the state, as well as the work of the at Samford University. The summit recorded 40 members in executive board. During this semester, the executive board attendance, nearly doubling last year’s attendance. Members had encourages all chapters to continue meeting and networking the opportunity to hear from presenters Dr. Becky Halliday with their buddy chapter. Overall, it has been a great semester (The University of Montevallo), Captain Brian Walden for AMEA’s collegiate division and the division looks forward (Samford University), Mrs. Deanna Bell (Vestavia Hills to what the next few months have in store! Elementary East), Dr. Anne Witt (The University of Alabama), and Dr. Ted Hoffman (The University of Montevallo). A new teacher panel was also interviewed to give collegiate members a deeper look into what the first year of teaching is like. Concluding with a networking dinner, this year’s annual summit was a huge success! This year’s Professional 31 Development Conference was a great experience for our collegiate division. With sessions ranging from topics such as interviewing skills to motivating students, collegiate members gained practical information about life as a future music educator. On Thursday night, members gathered for the Collegiate/Higher Education division mixer. This was a time for mingling and networking. Members were able to sit, play games, and meet other collegiate members during this time. The division also gathered at the ala breve

Alabama Celebrates 200 Years by David Raney What better way to celebrate  Al- Justin Williams wrote an arrange- began rehearsing and memorizing abama’s 200th birthday than with a ment of our state song, “Alabama”, the music. The staff did an incredi- parade? On December 14, 2019, Al- for the Bicentennial Band to per- ble job preparing the color guard abama celebrated the grand finale of form during the parade route. and majorettes with routines for a three-year bicentennial commemo- both the parade music and the grand ration with a host of celebratory The plans were made and the stage finale. events. I had the privilege to attend was set to begin rehearsals at Hunt- this event and witness a special ingdon College hosted by Rusty The small groups slowly started to group of educators and students Logan on “Friday the 13th”. combine before they all gravitated to come together to represent music the gymnasium with a full band education during this celebration.  music and visual rehearsal. This was the first time the students heard the The preparations for the Bicenten- music, as it would sound for the per- nial parade started two years ago, formance. They soon progressed to with collaboration between the state the stadium where the parade setup department and the Alabama Music Educators Association, to produce an all-star band with students that represent all congressional districts in our state.   Funding for this event came about If you were wondering what might was established and the guest artists from two grants obtained from the happen on such a superstitious day arrived to perform with the band.  Alabama State Department of Edu- while singing a song about water, I As the words “something in the cation and the Alabama Bicentennial can answer that question with one water” was sung by the guest artists, Commission. The ALSDE Arts Ed- word, RAIN. As luck would have it, the water falling from the sky began ucation Liaison, Andy Meadows, the weatherman called for rain all to crescendo. Everyone except the also played an important role in sup- day on Friday and the forecast cameraman holding the umbrella porting the efforts to showcase the proved most accurate. soon became drenched; however, talents of our students for this the rain didn’t slow down the dedi- event. An outstanding staff was se- As I watched the students from all cated and excited students as they lected to organize the event and stu- over the state filter into the Hunting- knew what had to be done for the dents were nominated by their band don band room, I could see the ex- performance the following day. They directors to participate.  citement and anticipation this event never showed signs of weakness and had to offer despite the rainy condi- An original song, “Something in the tions. Students immediately started Water”, was written by Anthony making new friends as they awaited Krizan, Cheryl DaVeiga, Jerry Foster further instructions in the band and Robert W. Smith for this cele- room. AMEA President, Greg Gu- bration. It was then arranged for mina, welcomed the students and in- marching band so the guitar soloist, troduced the director, Chris Lindley, Anthony Krizan, and singer Joe and other staff members. Smith could perform the music with the marching band as a parade grand The band immediately got to work finale.  and split into sectionals as they 32 February/March 2020

by the end of the night, they were staff walked along beside the band ready. wearing matching jackets and hats knowing all the work and years of The next day, one could figuratively planning came down to this mo- hear a sigh of relief as they were ment. The band did not disappoint.  met with sunshine while the band gathered in the staging area. Stu- As the band approached the capitol dents wore their band uniforms building for the grand finale per- from their school and were provided formance, some last-minute adjust- ments had to be made but the students never hesitated. With Gov- ernor Kay Ivey in the background and TV cameras rolling, the band performed with energy and excite- ment. a baseball cap containing the Ala- The governor waved to the band as The music educators of Alabama bama Bicentennial logo. Students they exited the area and I could tell proves there is definitely something also received a medal to commemo- the performance was more than the in the water that provides our stu- rate their participation in this his- audience expected. The students dents with some incredible experi- toric event. Majorettes and color were beaming with pride from what ences. guard members were provided they were able to accomplish in just matching uniforms along with offi- one day of practice. As I inter- The Bicentennial Band Staff in- cial bicentennial flags. viewed several students, they all cluded: Chris Lindley, David agreed that this experience will last a Allinder, James Crumb, Mason Mc- After a stretch, warmup, and lineup lifetime.  Farland, Mike McGlynn, Aaron the band experienced the all too fa-   Locklear, Stephanie Hill Ezell, miliar, “hurry up and wait” routine. I created a music video of these two Chaney Bowers, Nancy Hamric, The Bicentennial Band was last in days using the studio-recorded ver- David Raney, Regina Raney, Garry the lineup, but the wait was well sion of the song, “Something in the Taylor, Rusty Logan, Justin Williams, worth every minute. Water”. You can find it on the “My and Robert W. Smith. The students marched and played AMEA” YouTube channel where I for a well-attended audience. The hope to post more videos showcas- David ing the wonderful talent our state has to offer. The video is entitled, “AMEA Celebrates Alabama’s 200 Years”.   ala breve 33

Phi Beta Mu Technology Tools for Concert Band Rehearsals The focus of Tips That Click this month is a short overview of several technology tools that can assist every band director in the preparation of their ensemble for the Music Performance Assessment. The number and scope of tools are overwhelming, and so smart choices must be made to use technology effectively for the best return on finances and time invested. I recently asked several successful directors about tools and apps regularly used and they were happy to share their experiences. Tonal Energy (phone app) Digital Recorders and Audacity Sound Editing Software Tonal Energy is a very robust and full feature app for both iOS and Android smartphones at a very modest price. Dr. Rusty Logan of As the columnist, I rarely give my opinion in this space, but I will share Huntingdon College is an enthusiastic proponent: “I use the Tonal that the best technology I have used to help my groups over the years Energy App as a tuner and metronome almost daily during my has been something that has been available to all of us for a long time rehearsals. I find that by having the ability to switch quickly between and has never failed to give valuable insight. I have always recorded the two on the same App is a very efficient use of time. Also, I like the my bands regularly using whatever means I had. I was thrilled when I way you can change between just tuning and equal temperament. This was able to purchase portable cassette recorder and used it religiously. helps the students to better understand how to tune to what is I learned very quickly that the band that I heard while I was on the happening during the rehearsal”. Jon Bubbett, the recently retired podium was a good bit different than the band playing on the cassette band director at Thompson High School adds: “We had the capability that I listened to on the drive home! It was a real reality check and to project the Tonal Energy app onto our smart board and protector frustrating at the beginning of the contest preparation process, but it which is extremely beneficial in checking the occasional pitch. For less became very satisfying as we began peeling back the layers of problems than 5.00, this little application packs a punch and can be easily and making improvement. I further feel that making recordings attached to amplifiers and projectors. Students can afford the small demonstrates to your group that you are serious about doing “your cost to provide them with a tuner and metronome that they can have homework” as well. with them at all times! Today, this can easily be done by using a smartphone or digital forScore (app for iPad) recorder, but to be effective, recording must be done regularly and studied. When I am asked to go out and hear or rehearse a group, I ask This software is new to me but sounds great. When you think about that the director send me a sound file of any part of a rehearsal so it, choral directors can teach a little differently in their classes, since that I will walk in the door knowing a little about the group and can each student has a full score in front of them most of the time. The provide assistance from the first minutes. A young director can get teacher can point out details in the composition and the student can immense feedback from people that could never travel to their band visually connect the words of the teacher with a visual image. Joel room, but can listen to a recording and give detailed instruction. Many times, I import a sound file into Audacity and can provide a voiceover track like an adjudicator that can be distributed to the students via email or Google Drive. I think recording the band is often overlooked, but very useful. 34 February/March 2020

Henson, director at Clay-Chalkville High School recommends this without using a foot pedal. Jon Bubbett used this for years at software and says: “Recently, I've started using the ForScore app to Thompson and noted: “Incorporating and using the Harmony project my entire score for students. This gives them a visual model Director has probably been the biggest jump forward for us, as it has as it relates to balance and keeps them engaged”. The package also a metronome as well being able to sustain pitches. It also allows you to allows you to draw on the score with a stylus and make backing tracks toggle back and forth between just and dual tempered tuning which has with your sound files. The subscription price is less than a dollar a been very helpful when tuning chords etc. “. I have found the secret month. The forScore app is only produced for the iPad and os devices, to using the HD 200 is to not isolating its use to the ensemble warm but there are similar packages for the Android platform. up/ tune up portion of the rehearsal, but embedding its use through the entire rehearsal in small doses and looking for new ways to utilize it. One of the videos linked below is a 40 minute clinic that discusses many innovative practices. Yamaha Harmony Director (HD 200) This article only scratches the surface on use of technology in the concert band, but hopefully something was mentioned here that will have you do further research into some tools that will help you work smarter, not harder. Let me know what technology you are using in your rehearsal today. Good Luck with preparation for Music Performance Assessments and concerts this semester! The most frequently mentioned rehearsal aid among the directors I To learn more about these outstanding resources, search online for consulted was the Yamaha Harmony Director. With a list price of articles and Youtube videos. 1,500.00 it is not an inexpensive purchase, but it gives the creative teacher a tool that can certainly be worth this long-term investment. I Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters used an inexpensive electronic keyboard in my rehearsals for years, but Fraternity is committed to the improvement of bands and band quickly found that the HD 200 provided a multitude of simple, but instruction in this state. Comments on this column and ideas for useful features that made my rehearsals much more productive. For future columns are welcome! Please email: [email protected] example, you can play directly from a full score without stumbling around with transposition, and it also can sustain chords or single notes ala breve 35

Jazz Music Reviews by Matt Leder “Purpose, Community, and Opportunity”, a New Year’s Reflection Victor Wooten, one of the most recognized promoting performance and developing Championship this month! 10 prestigious bass players in the world, stated in a Ted new audiences. The 2020 JEN Conference university and college jazz programs from Talk…” My mother used to ask us, what in New Orleans had over 3500 attendees across the United States competed in NYC. does the world need with another good from 20 countries around the world, 150 At the live announcement of finalists, musician?”. What does the world need with exhibitors, 135 clinic sessions and research Wynton Marsalis stated, “We are interested you? Music is a lifestyle. He’s not talking presentations, 80 school group in the development of every individual as a about the negative associations some would performances, and 40 national acts. In fact, jazz musician and a person. You will be long assume. Does practice provide us with the Sallie White took several of her big bands out of this and we will still be looking out opportunity to make money or the from Hoover HS to participate in the for you. We want you to be holistic, healthy, opportunity to stand on stage in bask in the JENerations Jazz Festival, jam sessions, dynamic and powerful as you can be. glory? Music is much more than that. As we clinics, etc. The 2021 JEN Conference will This will be one of many experiences in come off a much-needed Christmas break, be in Louisville, KY in January. Tuscaloosa your development and want it to be a many begin to contemplate New Year’s HS and a few other programs around the positive one. Part of positivity is accepting resolutions. state have started JEN Chapters at their other people’s greatness, other people’s schools. There are several benefits to this creativity, and other people’s abilities to do Thinking back to Victor Wooten’s program including free charts, grants for things because they represent you if you are statement, what does the world need with clinics, and so much more. I am available to not there”. We can relate this advice to another good music educator? Sometimes help you set a Chapter up if you are education and our very own classrooms. we get caught up in our day to day interested. responsibilities and we forget about the Sometimes out of state travel is not “big picture”. Take a moment and If JEN is not your path, look to Jazz at financially possible. Look around the state contemplate purpose. What is it that you Lincoln Center. There are several programs and see what opportunities may exist for would like for your students to take away in NYC including the Band Director’s your students. The Alabama Jazz Hall of from your program or classroom? Help Academy, Jazz Congress, etc. Essential Fame Jazz Fest is March 27- 28, the UAB your students find purpose. Take a Ellington was a program that was started at Jazz Summit is March 26-28, Troy moment to discover what inspires your Jazz at Lincoln Center and now there are University’s Jazz Fest is April 4, Jacksonville students. Consider the culture of your regional Essential Ellington Competitions State’s Jazz Festival is April 10, and there program and contemplate room for around the country. Speaking of keeping several other events (regular jam sessions, improvement. Sean Jones once told me, things current, Jazz at Lincoln Center clinics, concerts, etc.) going on all over the “If you are too comfortable, you are not presented the inaugural Jack Rudin Jazz state. Reach out to schools nearby if you are growing”! Music is evolving, instruments are being improved, pedagogy and resources are constantly being developed, and there are more opportunities than ever for both students and educators. Are you evolving? Are you still listening to music and growing a musician and educator? Jazz education is changing, and it is great to see that more secondary schools are adding jazz ensembles to their programs. Whether you are starting a jazz program or continuing a jazz program, it is important that one is aware of opportunities and resources available. The Jazz Education Network is dedicated to building the jazz arts community by advancing education, 36 February/March 2020

hosting a clinician or hosting an event. I was and the music! Looking ahead, the 2020 you are not aware, there are technology so inspired by a band director that reached GSCC Jazz Festival “Celebrating the resources available to educators and out to me recently to inform me about a Foundation of Funk” will be November 5. I students including “The Amazing Slow clinician that would be attending their school. am pleased to announce that we will be Downer”, “Transcribe”, “iReal Bb”, “Band Often, there is a great concert or clinic that including a new group to the mix…the in the Box”, etc. In the upcoming months, is within driving distance and we didn’t even Alabama Jazz Education Network (JEN) All- we may took a look at some of these know about it. Reach out to colleagues, check Star HS Big Band! Auditions for this resources in more detail. your ego at the door, and serve the student prestigious ensemble will be released soon. Students will have the opportunity to work In summary, as we start 2020… take a with an international guest artist, observe moment and reflect on purpose. Stay clinics and performances during the GSCC current and keep an ear to the ground for Jazz Festival, will perform as the opening act opportunities. Connect with local for the finale concert with a guest artist and educators and fellow colleagues to a guest director, and will have the develop a deeper network of opportunity to participate in an after party opportunities for students. Please reach jam session. Stay tuned for details! out to me if you would like me to stop by your program to work with your students Keep your ear to the ground for or help you start a JEN Chapter (256-549- opportunities and continue to improve your 8394, [email protected]). Let’s craft. “Rehearsing the Jazz Band” by Mary make 2020 a great one! Back to the Jo Papich and Ryan Adsons was just “woodshed” for me… see you on the published 2019 and has been a hot item to band stand! purchase at both Midwest and the JEN Conference. There are several contributors In the spirit of swing, to this text including Caleb Chapman, John Clayton, Gordon Goodwin, Steve Wiest and Dr. Matt Leder www.mattleder.com many others. There are several other texts out there and several online resources. If MUSIC Changes LIVES ® MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS MONTH® 2020 Learn about this year’s direction for Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), as we focus on lessons for second- and 昀fth-graders that help them learn elements of music through some classic children’s songs in English and Spanish. The lessons and songs, however, can be shared at many levels. All are available without charge to teachers for their use during MIOSM and beyond. Read about this year’s theme and the direction for Music In Our Schools Month in years to come; obtain lesson plans and other resources; and take part in the Biggest School Chorus in the World with American Young Voices by visiting nafme.org/MIOSM. Follow the hashtags #MIOSM and #MusicChangesLives on Twitter and Instagram. Questions? Call 1-800-336-3768 or email [email protected]. ala breve 37

Never Take ‘No’ from an Inanimate Object: A Guide for Teaching Oboists by Kathleen Bell “Never take ‘No’ from an inanimate object.” These words, possible, it can be great to start beginning oboists over the spoken by John Mack, legendary principal oboist of the summer to give them a jumpstart to learning. Parental support Cleveland Orchestra, have been a comfort and, at times, a for oboists is also necessary, as it is a perpetually expensive challenge to young oboists everywhere. Mr. Mack was speaking instrument to play: instruments are not cheap, great reeds often of the challenges oboists face when making reeds—those little cost $20-25 each, private lessons are encouraged and oboes are indispensable pieces of cane we pluck from nature and then rather fragile, meaning regular repairs. chop, guillotine, gouge, clip and scrape into a form that works for us—we hope. While reeds are the most obvious challenge oboists There are many different philosophies regarding when and how face, they are far from the only one. My goal in writing this article to start students on the oboe. Some programs choose to have is to provide some tips for music educators and students for students learn another band instrument and then transition to whom the oboe may at times seem like a mystery—and an the oboe or bassoon; others start students directly on a double unpleasant one at that. reed instrument, which I prefer. While there are pros and cons to each approach, I’ve found that students who switch from another Teaching Beginning Oboe: woodwind instrument have already developed playing habits and strengthened an embouchure which doesn’t directly translate to For any beginning band directors who aren’t oboists, starting the oboe (for example, proper clarinet embouchure is almost the students on oboe can be a daunting task. When you have several exact opposite of a good oboe embouchure). eager young oboists staring at you for answers, it’s likely that the three weeks you spent studying the oboe during your junior-year Reeds: Woodwind Methods class feel very distant. Perhaps your methods class instructor chose to leave out double reeds One of the most crucial determinants of success or struggle on altogether! While I can’t speak to all the burning questions the oboe is the reed. Students have the option of buying mass- regarding starting oboists in one article, the following are some produced reeds (ex. Jones Reeds) or professionally hand-made things you may want to consider. reeds. If you can help your students find a reputable and reliable professional source, it is undoubtably the best choice. I purchased Who Should Play the Oboe? two of the same type of store-bought reeds to use as a demonstration for Auburn’s music education students this fall While there isn’t an exact recipe for the perfect oboist, it can help and the pitch was a whole step different from reed to reed—if to ask who might be a good candidate to start on the instrument. that’s the case, how can students ever learn if their pitch issue is In band, there are obviously different personnel needs for oboists them or the reed? It’s advisable for students to always have at the than for clarinetists or saxophones. As there are fewer band parts very least 2 functioning reeds (3 or 4 is better). As a band for oboes (and likely fewer available instruments), you don’t need director, you may want to keep a few extras in your office just in as many in your program. Once students reach high school, case, as reeds always seem to break on concert days. however, it’s often hard to choose great repertoire when you have zero oboists. Encourage those self-motivated students who seem Reeds require special care and maintenance to make them last. enthusiastic enough to stick with band to try the oboe. Next, Each student should have a small cup in which to soak their reed consider choosing students to play the oboe who are smart and each day before playing. Soaking the reed by sucking on it is not fast learners. (I promise I’m not saying this just to brag!) I the same as letting it soak in water. The reed should be placed remember sitting in band staring jealously at all the flute players gently cane-end first in the water almost up to the string. The who already sounded decent on their shiny instruments, while I cork shouldn’t be soaked, as it will be hard to fit in the oboe if it sounded like a strangled duck. Even though I was excited about expands. The reed should be in the water between a minute-and- my instrument, it was still disheartening. Due to the nature of a-half and two minutes. Any less, the reed will not be soaked the instrument, it’s easy to feel behind even if you start learning enough to vibrate well; any more, and the reed can oversoak, to play when everyone else does. Students who can persevere and making it stuffy to play and too open, altering the pitch. If you will be dedicated to practicing are a must. Students who are easily teach band, please try to give oboists enough time to get their frustrated or embarrassed may not be happy with an instrument reed out and soaked! It can be stressful for oboists to try to both which, for good or ill, often places players in the spotlight. When treat their reed with care and hurry to get set up and ready to 38 February/March 2020

play with the rest of the instrumentalists. and collapsed finger joints, which can lead to pain and even scarier problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Have your It is wise, especially for the first few years of playing, to perform students hold out their hand with their palm up, and imagine periodic “reed checks” to confirm that the student’s reeds are in they’re gently holding a baby chick or a ping pong ball. Their playing shape. The opening should be “normal,” (not overly fingers should curve around the imaginary object, but not closed or open), the reed should be without cracks (which are squeeze it. Then have them hold that position, turn their hand death to reeds), and the corners intact. If the reed is cracked, over, and try placing it on the instrument. Fingers, especially the missing all corners, or extremely closed, it’s time for a new reed ring finger and pinky (which tend to straighten the most) should (see diagram for parts of the reed). still be curved. When playing, have the students aim for fingers that are quiet and stay close to the keys. Fundamentals: Posture: As with the rest of the wind instruments, students should “Fundamentals” is a term we use to mean the most important start with their feet flat on the floor for stability, their upper body physical elements of playing an instrument. They include lifted with no tension, and their head looking straight ahead (not posture, breathing, tone, embouchure, articulation, pitch, etc. down to the ground or up at the ceiling). The oboe should come Great fundamentals are essential. They help us play more up to the player, not vice versa. The oboe should be held at an successfully and enjoyably, ultimately helping us do everything angle of 45 degrees or less for the best embouchure and tone. we want to do musically. While it’s impossible to discuss all Arms should be relaxed at the player’s side, rather than floating fundamentals here in the detail they deserve, here are a few of the midair. most important elements for beginners: Tone: As early as possible discuss what a great tone on the oboe Embouchure: Start by having students whistle (or pretend to, if means. This ideal can differ a lot from player to player—for me they can’t). When we whistle, the corners of our lips are forward, a great tone means depth and richness, with resonance and the in an “ooo” shape, and our chin is flat. This is a great start for the ability to produce many musical colors. A goal should be to have oboe embouchure. From the whistling position, have students the different registers on the oboe match as much as possible, very slightly tuck their lips inward and “firm up the lips” as if which means we need to constantly adjust our voicing (internal they’re cinching a drawstring bag. At this point, have students adjustments of throat, mouth and tongue placement). Having look in a mirror and work to memorize this feeling. The reed can students listen to recordings of great oboists from the beginning then be placed on the lower lip. About 2/3 of the cane should be will be immensely helpful. in the player’s mouth. The thread should not be touching the lips. Biting down on the reed with pressure from the jaw or teeth Pitch: The oboe is a very pitch-flexible instrument. On the reed should be completely avoided! Remember that building an alone we can achieve a whole range of pitches. As a result, embouchure takes time and practice—it’s normal for the students should work to learn the pitch tendencies on their own embouchure to get tired until new muscles become accustomed instrument with the goal of being able to play in tune with to playing the instrument. themselves, and in tune with others. Have students practice singing a pitch before playing it to develop their inner ear. If a student is playing sharp: check the reed’s pitch (should sound a C by itself), make sure the student isn’t biting the reed, and lastly have them take the reed a tiny bit out of their mouth. If a student is playing flat: check the reed’s pitch (as before, it should sound a C by itself), make sure they’re blowing air that’s fast and supported, and have the student put a little bit more reed in their mouth to raise the pitch. Breathing: Breaths for oboe playing should be low, deep, and It’s often tempting for directors to start beginning expansive. If a student’s shoulders are rising and falling with each instrumentalists in the key of Bb, but the notes in a Bb scale are breath, it’s likely that they’re only using the top half of their lungs, quite awkward for beginning oboists due to the necessary finger which will be insufficient for playing the oboe. I like to have combinations. Begin by teaching students the following notes: students envision breathing in warm air with their tongue on the middle B, A, G, F#, E and D, all of which they can play by floor of their mouth. Breaths should be noiseless but powerful. putting down one finger at a time. On the oboe it is often necessary to let old, used air out before taking a full, deep breath in. It is helpful for band directors to be aware of what I call the “F” situation on oboes. There are three ways to play a low or octave Hand Position: We always want students to aim for no tension in F on the oboe. “Regular F” should be the default fingering, their playing! To do this on the oboe we want to avoid flat fingers however anyone who takes a quick look at a fingering chart will ala breve 39

see that we quickly run into finger problems if we try to go from unless they’re planning to continue studying oboe in D or Eb to this “regular F.” There are two solutions to this—a college. “forked F” fingering (often indicated in method books with an “x”) or a “side F.” The side F is far and away preferable due to Develop a consistent warm-up routine and practice plan: the sound consistency, but many beginning oboes do not have regular long tones, scales, and other exercises will help the side F key. When it is available, it is always better to try students improve rapidly and gain consistency. teaching the side F fingering to students as opposed to the forked F. It is very hard to break students of the habit of relying Listen to great oboe players: There are CDs and other exclusively on the forked F fingering—but necessary for the best recordings available for purchase or streaming on the pitch and tone. internet and Spotify. Listening to incredible performers will help students know what they’re aiming for sound- wise. There are many great players to listen to, but some of my favorites include: Linda Strommen, Elaine Douvas, John Ferrillo, Jeffrey Rathbun, Roger Roe, Eugene Izotov and Frank Rosenwein. Students should attend any events offered to learn more about their instrument including camps, faculty recitals, double reed days, orchestral and band concerts. Exposure to great music will help make better musicians! Purchase: a good reed case, a tuner, metronome, and drone Additional words of wisdom for students who want to get Explore double reed vendors online (reed supplies, serious about studying the oboe: music, etc.): Forrests Music Midwest Musical Imports RDG Woodwinds Trev-Co Varner Music (for sheet music) Harvard Double Reeds Get a private teacher ASAP: A private teacher can help Finally, as my youth orchestra director would always say: “Love students fix the specific oboe problems they encounter music, ladies and gentlemen!” That advice alone will always carry (and there will be a lot). They will also be an expert in you far. oboe repertoire and be able to assist with reed needs. If there isn’t a private teacher in your area, many teachers Whether in lessons, reed-making sessions, or masterclasses, are open to giving Skype lessons, which can be a great Kathleen Carter Bell - Auburn’s Lecturer in Oboe and English alternative to weekly in-person meetings. Horn - equips students to become vibrant musicians and their Start thinking about purchasing a personal instrument: own best teachers. Kathleen has a great passion for performing. Oboes, like most instruments, don’t benefit from sitting She has played with orchestras across the Midwest and in a storage closet. Unless your school has a decent represented Indiana University at Seoul National University's instrument which has been sent in for regular repairs 2019 Winter Chamber Music Festival. Kathleen is ABD toward and adjustments, students who can afford it will be a Doctor of Music degree better off purchasing their own oboe. There are many from Indiana University and great brand options out there including: Fox, Lorée, was one of six graduate Yamaha, Howarth, etc. A big consideration will be recipients of the 2012 Barbara whether to purchase a plastic or wooden instrument. and David H. Jacobs Plastic instruments are more resilient to heat and cold Fellowship, granted for but lose something by way of tone. Wooden instruments “excellence and leadership in require special care, including a break-in process and the world of music.” warming up the wood before playing to prevent cracking, but often have more resonance and a richer tone. It may be best for students to purchase plastic 40 February/March 2020





Band Music Reviews by Randall Coleman The time that researching what is new each year from wind grade 2 or 3 level ensemble. If you are looking for a piece band composers is daunting. There is just so much new music that provides excellent opportunities for cross-curricular now. As conductor-educators, the responsibility of selecting collaboration with your colleagues studying the Byzantine your ensemble’s curriculum is huge. That responsibility Empire, this is it. I think the tempo, length and stylistic coupled with the sheer volume of new music, certainly makes considerations of Byzantine Dances make it definitely a literature selection a time-consuming job…and this is making grade 2+ or even a grade 3. Hope you will check this one out. an assumption that we are aware of the literature we have that I think your students will love it. is not “new”! When I’m programming for the ensembles I conduct, the job is incredibly educational, enjoyable and yes, I have really enjoyed studying and working on John Mackey’s time consuming. Your investment pays off when you do your new piece, Sacred Spaces. Premiered by the United States homework and select the right curriculum for your students. Army Field Band in July 2019, this 4-minute work is a fresh For me, it’s just something that “clicks” in my brain when all and exuberant concert opener for your advanced ensemble. of the pieces for a concert cycle work. Those are the good In Sacred Spaces, Mackey displays his wonderful lyrical days! I hope the three pieces below are some you will take writing and combines that with all of the excitement and drive another look at. I’ve enjoyed getting to know them! that is another of his trademarks. Utilizing incredibly interesting harmonies, the piece takes you on a journey that is One of Alfred Music’s new pieces in their “Debut Series” for intended to be a musical homage to the Grand Canyon young bands is a delightful piece by Jared Barnes titled To National Park. All of John Mackey’s library is published by his Build A Dream. To Build A Dream is a grade 1 work that own publishing company, Osti Music, and the score is available is approximately 2:30 in length. It opens with a fanfare section for purchase and parts available for rental. Mackey’s writing that is well scored for your young ensemble. With an seems to always appeal to the musicians in the ensemble and interesting introduction presented in a marcato style, the piece this piece has been a lot of fun to prepare. Mackey uses his moves to the more lyrical “A” theme that is a wonderful vehicle typical instrumentation here, including soprano saxophone for working with your young band on lyrical and expressive and harp and the percussion parts are quite challenging, playing. At the conclusion of the “A” section, the composer requiring 7 players. With beautiful lyrical solos written for flute, develops the lyrical theme in a very interesting fashion and trumpet, euphonium and horn, it is well worth a look if you features optional solos in trumpet and alto saxophone. The have an advanced ensemble. If you are looking for a thrilling opening theme returns with a well thought out coda. The 4 minute opening piece for your spring concert, I know you piece sits very comfortably in the key of Eb Major. With the and your students will enjoy Sacred Spaces. contrasts in To Build A Dream, I think it’s an excellent choice for opening your spring concert with your first-year ensemble. When I first heard Carol Brittin Chambers work Byzantine Randall Coleman Dances, I was immediately drawn in by the wonderful themes, Associate Director of Bands smart scoring and engaging stylistic writing. Published by University of Alabama Excelcia Music Publishing in their Intermezzo Band Series and Conductor and Music Director listed at a level 2, I know your students will really enjoy The Alabama Winds working on this piece. Byzantine Dances is intended to portray a set of Turkish Dances and contains many Turkish- sounding elements. The melodic material is largely based on the Byzantine scale…and the utilization of “Turkish Zills” or finger cymbals adds to the overall feel of the piece that takes you right to the center of a crowded Turkish market. This is an excellent piece to introduce grace notes to your students, and it contains a nice variety of different articulations with only a few measures of syncopation. Ensemble members also incorporate unique finger snaps and hand claps to add to the style of the piece. Byzantine Dances utilizes the key signature of Bb Major, but the tonality shifts several times throughout the piece making for a very interesting harmonic structure. This piece deserves a look from anyone who has a ala breve 43

Collaboration through Performance: the Alabama Winds and Alabama Voices Promote Lifelong Music Education by Elizabeth Haynes The Alabama Winds and the Alabama Voices held their first annual these ensembles allows members the convenience of meeting in the combined Holiday Concert on Sunday, December 15th at the most accommodating location, as both ensembles rehearse monthly Thompson High School Performing Arts Center. in Birmingham. There is a special comradery that is shared amongst At the close of the fall semester and amongst winter concerts, these musicians, which is a leading contributor in why these adult football games, conferences and numerous family obligations, over community ensembles are growing in number in the United States one hundred music educators and lifetime music lovers gathered and all over the world. In a recent survey of community bands in together with one primary goal: to promote the unity and Ontario, Canada, it was revealed that socialization, friendships, and collaboration of two of the state’s premier adult community mentoring were strong reasons for participation in community bands ensembles as they share their ability to make music with each other (Mantie, 2012). It is evident that the members in these ensembles and the community. The concert, the first of its kind for the hold in high regard the ability to participate with like-minded ensembles, featured pieces for band and choir alone, selections for colleagues and musicians. the combined ensembles, and had the addition of featured soloists Joy Waters Fowler and Bruce Meadows. Music programs within school systems thrive when a combined effort is made to promote an entire department’s mission and At their core, these ensembles aim to advocate for lifelong music outreach. With the added benefit of having music teachers within education through performance. The Alabama Winds, founded in each ensemble, a goal for the Alabama Voices and Alabama Winds is the summer of 2013, emphasizes the importance of fostering and to continue inviting young students into the concerts. Both promoting the concept of an adult community band, as well as the ensembles wish to show younger audience members that music is an appreciation of high-quality wind band literature through enriching activity that can be continued long after they leave the performances of artistic merit. The Alabama Voices, formed in classroom. Harris Gessner, Artistic Director for the Alabama Voices, February of 2018, propose to cultivate an appreciation for the choral reiterates the importance of ensemble collaboration: arts in Alabama, connect communities within the state through the performance of choral repertoire, and offer an outlet for music We share a joint passion for high-level music-making, educators to continue performing in a high-level ensemble. so the greatest benefit to working with Alabama Voices is creative inspiration. Alabama Voices is always Both ensembles greatly value the ability to represent Alabama impressed by the elite level of musicianship that through the performance of quality literature, and to share this Alabama Winds displays each time they perform, and music with others in the community. Most members of each group we consider it a blessing to share in that musicianship. are practicing music educators who feel it is important to develop We also acknowledge that members of Alabama musicianship in venues outside of the classroom. The centrality of Winds are our colleagues—they teach in the same school districts and share the same students. That dynamic gives our group another unique advantage to impact students and the communities they come from. Both groups wish to inspire music educators to not only teach students high level repertoire, but also to continue to perform it themselves. Music educators conventionally teach students in a classroom; Alabama Winds and Alabama 44 February/March 2020

Voices attempt to teach students by modeling music as a lifelong endeavor. We plan to spread this elite level of performance outside our classrooms to reach as many music educators and aspiring students across the state as possible. The Alabama Winds performs at one local (within-state) honor band each spring, in an effort to make their music more accessible to younger audiences. Through collaboration, these ensembles are enforcing performance as an integral part of what educators do. Sharing the joy of music performance with other mission-driven ensembles only allows room for more creativity. According to Elliott (1995); “Musicianship includes educated or knowledgeable feelings for the nature of music making and the nature of musical works in the contexts of definite music cultures” (p. 65). Reimer (2003) further enforces Elliott’s praxial philosophy: In music, it is to emphasize, as central to the to stop making music when you graduate from high enterprise, those people who “make” music—who school or college…they need to see that making music bring musical sounds into being—and how they go is enjoyable, educational and essential to us as human about doing what they do. The product of the making, beings. What better way to demonstrate this than to the “piece” or “work” they produce by their doings, is have both a choral ensemble and wind band combine not really the point. The point, or value, or essence of to create a very special concert for our community. I music is in the doing of it (p. 48). am certain that this collaboration with the incredibly talented members of Alabama Voices and Alabama Though a young organization, the Alabama Voices has already Winds is the first of many more to come. established a concert cycle that consists of 3 formal concerts a year. This summer the Alabama Voices will perform at the Alabama All members of these groups pay dues and are not reimbursed for ACDA Conference in Tuscaloosa. The choir has held steady travel expenses to rehearsals and concerts. Yet, they make time once membership since their inception a mere two years ago and hope a month to drive from all corners of the state to reconnect with each that by collaborating with their instrumental counterpart, they can other and make music, and that shared sentiment is evident in the continue to spread their message of lifelong vocal performance. The way these groups perform together. With the rise of community Alabama Winds, having only been in existence for 6 years, has ensembles, now is an ideal time to consider joining one of these performed twice at the Alabama Music Educators Conference, in organizations. If you are interested in membership in Alabama both 2015 and 2019, and performed at the 2017 Midwest Band and Winds, please visit www.alabamawinds.org. For more information on Orchestra Clinic in Chicago. The Alabama Winds stays busy with at membership in Alabama Voices, visit www.alabamavoices.org. least three concert performances in a year: a winter concert, a spring honor band concert, and a Memorial Day concert. The spring References concert has become the ensemble’s opportunity to bring our music Elliott, D. J. (1995). Music matters. New York, Oxford: Oxford to local district and university honor bands. The members of the University Press. Alabama Winds believe that access to quality music performances should be made easily available to all students in our state. With Reimer, B. (2003). A philosophy of music education: Advancing the vision regard to the combined mission and future of the ensembles, (3rd ed.). New Jersey: Prentice Hall. Randall Coleman, Conductor and Artistic Director for the Alabama Winds, states: When Alabama Winds was formed in 2013, we took Mantie, R. (2012). A study of community band participants: great care in writing our mission statement and Implications for music education. Bulletin of the Council for Research in objectives, two of which state our desire to promote Music Education. 191(21-43). quality ensemble performances for the people of our state and to provide our members with an opportunity Elizabeth Haynes is pursuing her PhD in Music for musical expression, growth, and fellowship. The Education at Auburn University where she collaboration with our friends and colleagues, the serves as a Graduate Teaching Assistant with Alabama Voices, strike at the heart of these central both the Department of Curriculum and statements in our mission. The work of both Alabama Teaching and Music Department. Ms. Hynes Voices and Alabama Winds helps to demonstrate to earned her Bachelor of Music Education degree our community at large that music-making is a life- from Auburn University in 2010 and Master of long endeavor. Our students need to know that their Music degree in Music Education from LSU in teachers, not only teach music, they play music. This 2013. Prior to returning to Auburn, Ms. is a powerful statement to the future of our profession Haynes was Director of Bands at Whitewater and to our legacy as educators. Our students and Middle School in Fayetteville, Georgia. Ms. community members need to see that you don’t have Haynes currently plays in the Alabama Winds. ala breve 45

AMEA Division Events 2019 - 2020 Alabama Bandmasters Association District Event Location Date Deadline Statewide All State Solo Festival University of Alabama Huntsville 4/22/20 3/1/20 District 1 All State Festival Von Braun Civic Center April 23-25, 2020 3/1/20 Summer Convention Hampton Inn June 23-25, 2020 District 2 District Fall Meeting James Clemens HS 8/19/19 12/9/19 District 3 All State/ District HB Auditions Sparkman HS January 24 & 25, 2020 12/9/19 District 4 Unassigned All-State Auditions Albertville HS 1/11/20 12/9/19 District Honor Band Grissom HS February14 &15, 2020 1/17/20 District 5 MPA #1 James Clemens HS March 3-4, 2020 1/17/20 MPA #2 Hartselle HS March 11-13, 2020 2/21/20 District 6 Solo and Ensemble #1 Priceville HS 3/21/20 3/20/20 District 7 Solo and Ensemble #2 Meridianville MS 4/18/20 TBA District 8 District Spring Meeting TBA TBA District Fall Meeting Gadsden City HS Band room 8/27/19 12/9/19 46 All State Auditions Albertville HS 1/11/20 12/9/19 Unassigned All-State Auditions Albertville HS 1/11/20 1/20/20 District Honor Band Gadsden City HS February 7-8 2020 1/20/20 MPA Gadsden City HS Audiorium February 25-28, 2020 3/30/20 Solo and Ensemble #1 Southside HS 4/13/20 3/30/20 Solo and ensemble #2 Oxford HS 4/27/20 District Fall Meeting TBD TBD 1/6/20 All State Auditions Muscle Shoals HS 1/25/20 1/31/20 District Honor Band Russellville HS February 14-15, 2020 2/7/20 MPA Florence HS March 3-5, 2020 4/13/20 Solo and Ensemble Muscle Shoals HS 5/2/20 District Fall Meeting Hoover HS 9/10/19 1/10/20 All State Auditions Hoover HS 1/25/20 1/31/20 District Honor Band Chelsea HS February 28-29, 2020 12/20/19 MPA Week 1 Vestavia Hills HS March 9-12, 2020 12/20/19 MPA Week 2 Thompson HS March 16-19, 2020 4/3/20 Solo and Ensemble #1 Mountain Brook HS 4/28/20 4/3/20 Solo and Ensemble #2 Bumpus MS 5/2/20 District Spring Meeting Vestavia Hills HS 5/18/20 1/10/20 District Fall Meeting Heather Henson's House 8/22/19 1/10/20 All State/District Honor Band Audi- Brookwood HS 1/25/20 2/7/20 Unassigned All-State Auditions Wetumpka MS 1/25/20 District Honor Band University of Alabama February 21-22, 2020 2/7/20 District Meeting University of Alabama 2/22/20 3/19/20 MPA University of Alabama March 6-7, 2020 3/31/20 Solo and Ensemble #1 Prattville JHS 4/2/20 Solo and Ensemble #2 Tuscaloosa Co. HS 4/14/20 1/10/20 District Fall Meeting El Rey de Todos - Auburn 8/17/19 1/10/20 All State Auditions Wetumpka HS 1/25/20 2/2/20 Unassigned All-State Auditions Wetumpka MS 1/25/20 2/10/20 District Honor Band Auburn HS February 14-15, 2020 3/30/20 MPA Auburn HS March 2-5, 2020 Solo and Ensemble Trinity Presbyterian 4/18/20 1/10/20 2/7/20 District Fall Meeting Davidson High School 8/26/19 2/28/20 All State Auditions Saraland HS 1/25/20 4/3/20 MPA Baker HS March 17-20, 2020 District Honor Band Theodore High School March 26-29, 2020 1/13/20 Solo and Ensemble Spanish Fort MS 5/2/20 2/7/20 District Spring Meeting Daphne High School 5/18/20 2/14/20 District Fall Meeting TBA Enterprise AL 8/19/19 All State Auditions Coppinville JH Enterprise 1/25/20 4/10/20 MPA Enterprise Performing Arts Center March 3-5, 2020 4/10/20 District Honor Band Enterprise HS March 6-7, 2020 District Spring Meeting Enterprise HS 3/6/20 February/March 2020 Solo and Ensemble #1 Daleville HS 5/2/20 Solo and Ensemble #2 Greenville HS 5/9/20

Alabama Vocal Association State Events Event Date Reg. Deadline Location Friday, August 30, 2019 Huntingdon College Fall Workshop Friday, September 06, 2019 Thursday, September 19, 2019 Online through Acceptd See AMEA website Renaissance Montgomery ASSC Auditions Friday, October 18, 2019 Thursday, December 05, 2019 Renaissance Montgomery Wednesday, December 04, 2019 Renaissance Montgomery AMEA January 16-18, 2020 Wednesday, January 23, 2019 BJCC Honor Choir January 16-18, 2020 Reg. Deadline Thursday, October 03, 2019 ASSC January 15-18, 2020 Thursday, October 03, 2019 Thursday, October 03, 2019 All-State March 5-7, 2020 Thursday, October 03, 2019 Thursday, October 03, 2019 OCS/OA/ME Thursday, October 03, 2019 Thursday, October 03, 2019 District Date Location Reg. Deadline Decatur HS I Monday, November 18, 2019 Thursday, September 19, 2019 Paul W. Bryant High School Thursday, September 19, 2019 Cahaba Heights UMC II Tuesday, November 19, 2019 Thursday, September 19, 2019 Oxford High School Thursday, September 19, 2019 Madison Academy III Thursday, November 14, 2019 Thursday, September 19, 2019 Tallassee High School Thursday, September 19, 2019 St. Michael Catholic High School IV Friday, November 22, 2019 Reg. Deadline V Tuesday, November 19, 2019 Tuesday, February 05, 2019 Thursday, January 10, 2019 VI Thursday, November 21, 2019 Thursday, January 10, 2019 Monday, January 07, 2019 VII Friday, November 22, 2019 Tuesday, January 08, 2019 Monday, February 25, 2019 All-State Auditions Monday, January 28, 2019 District Date Reg. Deadline Location Tuesday, February 05, 2019 I Sunday, November 03, 2019 Wednesday, February 13, 2019 Muscle Shoals Sunday, February 17, 2019 Tuscaloosa II & III November 1-2, 2019 Thursday, February 28, 2019 Gadsden Thursday, February 28, 2019 Huntsville IV Thursday, October 31, 2019 Monday, March 25, 2019 Montgomery Monday, February 11, 2019 Mobile V November 4-5, 2019 VI November 6-7, 2019 VII Friday, November 08, 2019 Solo & Ensemble District Date Location Highland Baptist, Florence I Monday, March 18, 2019 University of Alabama Cahaba Heights UMC II Thursday, February 21, 2019 Jacksonville State University First Baptist Church, Huntsville III Friday, February 22, 2019 Taylor Road Baptist Church Spring Hill Baptist Church IV Monday, February 18, 2019 V February 19-20, 2020 VI Sunday, April 07, 2019 VII Sunday, March 10, 2019 SCPA District Date Location Highland Bapt,Florence/1st Bapt, Decatur I March 18-19, 2020 University of Alabama TBA II March 26-27, 2020 Gadsden City High School Grissom High School III March 30-April 1, 2020 Taylor Road Baptist Church Spring Hill Baptist Church IV Wednesday, April 10, 2019 V April 13-14, 2020 VI Sunday, April 07, 2019 VII Sunday, March 24, 2019 Elementary/General Division August 24, 2019 East Alabama Music Workshop Grace United Methodist Church, Auburn, AL October 18, 2019 AMEA Choir Festival Eastmont Baptist Church, Montgomery October 19, 2019 Fall AMEA Workshop Eastmont Baptist Church, Montgomery January 16-18, 2020 AMEA Professional Development Conference Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa Alabama Orchestra Association August 2, 2019 All-State Audition Materials Released November 25, 2019 Wind & Percussion Audition Results Posted December 6, 2019 All-State Scholarship Application Deadline September 27, 2019 All-State Audition Application Deadline Early October String Auditions (Early Wind & Perc.) January 16-18, 2020 AMEA Conference Early November Wind & Percussion ONLY Auditions February 6-9, 2020 All-State Orchestra Festival November 18, 2019 String Audition Results Posted Spring 2020 AOA Music Performance Assessment AMEA Collegiate Division October 27, 2019 Collegiate Summit Samford University January 16-18, 2020 AMEA Professional Development Conference Renaissance Montgomery and Convention Center ala breve 47

Choral Music Reviews by William Powell Tenor-Bass Choir Focus I Shall Not Live in Vain Let All Men Sing J. Reese Norris words and music by Keith Christopher for TTB or SATB Choir, solo, piano, and optional string quartet for TTBB and piano & suspended cymbal (also published for SATB and piano with alternate title “Let Us Text by Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) All Sing”) MusicSpoke Hal Leonard Corporation Duration: Approximately 4:20 HL 08703182 Duration: Approximately 2:30 The description on the publisher’s website is as follows: “The profound text from American poet, Emily Dickinson is Another great concert opener with an exuberant piano married perfectly to the scripture found in Matthew 25...This is accompaniment, Keith Christopher’s classic composition is a powerful, compelling song of statement and purpose.” The worth listing in this article, whether to introduce it to a new text is, indeed, profound and compelling as one would expect generation of choral teachers, or to reintroduce it to veteran from J. Reese Norris. His skillfully uses vocal range to optimize directors. The phrases generally begin in unison, and peel off the dynamics, thus, drawing unmistakable attention to key parts into harmonies, sometimes with lush suspensions. In addition of the text. For instance, in the TTB setting, the first tenors sing to the monophonic and homophonic textures in the voices, high G’s that occasionally resolve up to an A-flat. The effect Christopher also briefly utilizes polyphony to increase interest during a performance can be quite stunning. The composition is and diversify the composition. The rhythms are straight-forward accessible, both vocally and instrumentally, but it is quite evident and easy to read, including the that it is not intended to be music for music’s sake. Rather, the syncopations. The text is suitable in apparent intention is to inspire the listener. both secular and sacred environments. Sing, Now, Ye Sons of Art William Powell Henry Purcell (1659-1695), arr. by Victor C. Johnson Director of Choral Activities from “Birthday Ode for Queen Mary” (1694) Auburn University for TB Chorus and piano with optional Bb trumpet Text by Nahum Tate (1652-1715) Heritage Music Press / Lorenz Corporation 15/2781H-3 Duration: Approximately 1:30 Victor Johnson’s setting of this historic composition is an ENTER THE 2020 appealing addition to any tenor-bass choir, and it presents several STUDENT COMPOSERS COMPETITION built-in teaching moments that can enhance the learning and musicality of any tenor-bass choir: 1) it presents the opportunity NAfME is seeking original music by student composers for featured to reinforce lessons in dynamic contrast and terraced dynamics; performance at the 2020 NAfME National Conference. Teachers 2) it has easily identifiable elements of Baroque style; 3) the and students are invited to submit original student compositions for optional trumpet part is accessible to intermediate players; 4) Symphonic Orchestra or Reed Quintet. Cash prizes will be awarded to the piano accompaniment is accessible to intermediate players; winners and honorable mentions. 5) it is a great concert opener; , 6) the melody appears equally between both voice parts, initially as alternate phrases, thus, Students in elementary school, secondary school, college, and graduate requiring the ensemble to focus attention on achieving a good school are eligible to submit compositions. Compositions submitted that balance; 7) the occasional accidentals call attention to the fall outside of the orchestral or chamber instrumentation guidelines will composer’s unmistakable use of secondary dominants; 8) in the be adjudicated but will not be eligible for awards or for performance. absence of players, a performance/accompaniment CD is Learn more: bit.ly/NAfMEStudentComposers available for purchase. Entry deadline: March 27, 2020 48 February/March 2020



Marching Scarlet & Grey Huntingdon Winds & Jazz HUNTINGDON BANDS BallHawks Pep Band Huntingdon College Bands Honor Bands: huntingdon.edu/bands @huntingdonbands Email: [email protected] Huntingdon College is committed to a policy against legally impermissible, arbitrary, or unreasonable discriminatory practices. Huntingdon College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and the Associate of Arts. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Huntingdon College. The Huntingdon College music program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.