August/September 2022 Ala Breve

a l a b r e v e August/September2022 The Official Publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association www.myamea.org

Landmark Music Festivals (800) 681-4188 www.travellandmark.com (205) 458-0086 Landmark Tour & Travel’s Music Festival Division has more than twenty years experience planning student tours. Landmark’s team of expert travel professionals can customize your tour to any major choral or instrumental festival at any location that you choose. IATAN InternationalAirlines TravelAgentNetwork Festivals Choice Music Festivals • Cruise Festivals • Festival Disney Festivals of Music • Field Studies Carnegie Hall Performance Fiesta-val Music Festivals • Heritage Festivals Manhattan Concert Productions • MidAmerica Productions Music in the Parks • OrlandoFest • Music USA Orlando Southern Star Music Festival . . . AND MORE Destinations Atlanta, GA • Branson, MO • Chicago, IL • Gatlinburg, TN New Orleans, LA • New York, NY • Orlando, FL Saint Louis, MO • San Antonio, TX • Toronto, ON Washington, DC • Williamsburg, VA . . . AND MORE Sample itineraries are available for each destination. If the festival or destination of your choice is not listed, call for a custom proposal. Contact SarahMartha Parker at (205) 458-0086 or [email protected] to begin planning your tour today!

New at Auburn! State-of-the-art recording studio opening January 2023! Bachelor of Music in Composition and Technology For more information contact Lee Johnson: [email protected] Commercial Music For more information contact Jilla Webb: [email protected]

Sales Represenative Charlie Ford Cell: 334 390 9568 Email: [email protected]

ala breve the official publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association August/September 2022 Features... 8 AMEA Governing Board Directory 17 General Music Reviews by Deanna Bell 19 AMEA Presidents, Past to Present 20 Tri-M Spotlight: Auburn High School 22 Campus Connections 27 FAME Scholarship Essay by Heather Medlin 28 Phi Beta Mu Tips that Click: Improving the Woodwind Section 30 Teacher Profile: Jordan Kirchner Ford 32 Choral Music Reviews by Dr. William Powell 34 How To Build Your Jazz Program Alabama Jazz Collective 39 Coupling Exercises to Cultivate Development... by Dr. Tom Luckowitz 42 AMEA and Division Schedule of Events 44 Industry/Institutional Members Departments... Advertisers... 6 ............................President Alabama State University.........................45 Tri-M ........................................................20 9 .............................Registrar Arts Music Shop, Inc ..................back cover UAB Music...............................................11 10 ..................................AVA Auburn University .....................................3 UAH Music ..............................................24 11..................................HED Auburn University ....................................46 UNA Department of Music ......................47 12 .............................cNAfME Birmingham-Southern College.................44 University of Alabama Bands ..................23 14 .......................ELEM/GEN Jacksonville State University ...................33 University of Alabama Bands ..................37 16 ..................................ABA John M. Long School of Music (Troy).....25 University of Montevallo .........................26 17 ..................................Jazz Landmark Tours .........................................2 University of South Alabama Bands ........12 Marchmaster ...............................................4 University of South Alabama Music ........38 Priesters Pecans Fundraising ....................36 William Carey University...........................9 Samford University ..................................21

Dr. Rob Lyda, AMEA President Hello AMEA! Hello AMEA! I hope you all had a that we figured out how to offer AMEA members participating in Orff-Schul- fantastic summer full of rest, professional development through Zoom. werk teacher training at Samford University relaxation, and adventure. I will I’m thankful I was able to interact and admit this is the first summer that has felt learn from culture bearers from many strategic plan, and heard fantastic student normal in a while. My family went on a different traditions. I know my students performances. Once again, I can’t stress wonderful vacation, I slept in, ate good will enjoy and benefit from the music I how wonderful it was to be together and food, and I traveled for research, learned from China, Central and South not in Zoom boxes! AMEA was well presentations, and business. I enjoyed America, and Indigenous People. represented in person by me and Southern every possible moment of summer. I feel Division President-Elect Susan Smith, and energized and ready for a new school year, Even though Zoom is a fantastic on Zoom by Dr. Phil Wilson, David and I hope you do too. resource, it’s not the same as being in the Raney, Garry Taylor, and Dr. Rusty Logan. room with other people. There is There will be more information to share There is one thing I have enjoyed something invigorating about the about the work from National Assembly in watching on social media this summer - communal aspect of learning and making the weeks ahead. your many and varied adventures. It music. This summer I dusted off my brought me great joy to see your trips to tuning fork and took Kodály Level III. It Even with a summer full of Music for All, the Conn Selmer Academy, was great to be with other music teachers, adventures, the business of AMEA has Kodály, Orff, World Music Drumming, especially, my fellow Level III students. been ongoing. Your AMEA board met on and Feierabend Levels, ACDA summer Thank you, Virginia, Matt, Katie, and June 8th in Birmingham to discuss the 2023 convention, ABA summer convention, the Carrie, for a fantastic two weeks of Professional Development Conference, the Ohio State String Teachers Workshop, learning together. I hope my sight singing vision of the Association for the next two cNAfME’s Collegiate Advocacy Summit, wasn’t too unbearable to your ears! years, conduct staff evaluations, hire a new the Little Kids Rock Summit, and many Executive Director and Assistant other trainings. You all spent hours and AOA President-Elect, Jordan Ford, attending Executive Director, and hear the fantastic hours learning new things to provide a the Ohio State String Teachers Workshop work of each division. I would like to better music education for your students. (Pictured with Brian Balmages) thank Garry Taylor for his fantastic work Some of you were brave enough to take In addition to taking teacher as AMEA’s Executive Director for the past students to summer music camps! 17 years. Our Association is in a strong trainings, I traveled to Washington, DC to place because of the vision and leadership I, too, participated in a few attend NAfME’s National Assembly. of Garry. He will continue as the editor of teacher trainings. For several years, I have NAfME’s constitution and by-laws specify the Ala Breve and serve as the Assistant wanted to participate in the Smithsonian that each summer the Presidents of Executive Director during the leadership Folkways World Music Pedagogy course. NAfME, each Division, each state MEA transition. Thank you, Garry, for your One of the benefits of the pandemic is and the Society and Council Chairs, years of service and your friendship! convene to discuss the business of the AMEA members Jennifer Walsh and NAfME. Throughout the three days of I would also like to congratulate Jerell Horton attending Music For All meetings, we discussed budgets, Dr. Rusty Logan as AMEA’s new connecting with Collegiate and Tri-M Executive Director. Rusty has served members, advocacy, the future of AMEA in many roles. He is a Past professional development, NAfME’s President of the Alabama Bandmasters Association and for the past seven years 6 August/September 2022

has served as AMEA’s Assistant Executive AMEA President Rob Lyda with NAfME of music education. I look forward to Director. Congratulations, Rusty on your Council Chairs Dave Kauffman, Susan Smith, hearing from Greg’s task force about new role! We look forward to working with tangible ways we can build better you to continue making AMEA the and Rob Deemer relationships with our administrators to guiding light of arts education in our state. benefit our students. and vision. I, like many of you, am As I mentioned, your AMEA concerned with the teacher shortage. I Occasionally, every organization board also discussed the future and vision want us to focus not on the first three or needs to look at its policies and bylaws to of our Association. According to AMEA’s five years of a music teacher’s career but ensure we are running efficiently and Constitution, “The object of this provide resources and opportunities for effectively. In addition, we need to ensure Association shall be: music teachers from collegiate membership that all our members can fully participate into the first 10 years of teaching. I have in our organization. We also need to 1 To effect mutual assistance and asked Dr. Phil Wilson and Dr. Diane examine if we are unintentionally the promotion and advancement Orlofsky to form an Early and Mid-Career excluding or neglecting members or of music education through Teacher Development Task Force to look potential members. I have asked educational institutions and other at ways we can mentor and identify Immediate Past President, David Raney, to organizations; emerging leaders in our profession. chair a Bylaws and Committee Chair Revision task force to look at our current 2 To encourage music activities As many of you know, advocacy documents. I look forward to their among the schools of the state by is one of my passions. I want AMEA to be recommendations. means of festivals, clinics, more advocacy minded as we move workshops, and other related forward. We are the largest arts education I look forward to ways we can events; association in the state of Alabama. We work together to make AMEA the best have a responsibility to lead the way and organization for our members and ways to 3 To secure greater recognition for ensure Alabama’s children have access to a advocate for our students. I proudly joined music as an integral part of the full and comprehensive music and arts this Association 25 years ago as a member school curriculum; education. If we continue to wait on other of cMENC at Troy State University. people and organizations to advocate for AMEA has served me well throughout my 4 To encourage the development of us, we will always be in the backseat. I am career. Twenty-five years later, I am proud post-school music opportunities heading an advocacy task force that is to give back to AMEA as your President. in each community.” looking at ways to continue our national I’m ready to work and I invite you to join advocacy efforts, but also venture into me on this journey! If you have Susan Smith, NAfME Southern Division Presi- more state and local advocacy. There are suggestions or if I can help you, please do dent-Elect, addresses NAfME National Assembly changes to our website for advocacy not hesitate to contact me. resources to have a landing page. In the As we move forward, I want us to months ahead, we will be updating and Summer has been a fantastic time think of unique ways we can live up to our providing advocacy resources for our of learning, dreaming, and resting, but it’s objectives. What are we doing to ensure members. time to face the reality that a new school AMEA is fulfilling its stated objectives? year is upon us. The sounds of tonal bass How can we better work together to Through the years, one thing I drums in the distance announce the provide music education opportunities in have constantly heard from many of you is realities of a school year are beginning to our schools and post K-12 in our state? that we need to learn how to work with set in. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and How can we work to elevate music education administrators. I have asked get to work. I wish you the best start to education and ensure music education is a Greg Gumina to chair an Education your school year. Here’s to a year full of valued and integral part of the school Administrator Relations task force to successes and learning challenges! curriculum? I look forward to working examine ways we can work with our with each of you and your divisions to administrators. AMEA needs to build Participants of the University of Montevallo challenge AMEA to fulfill its objectives. relationships and provide resources to help Kodály Institute We are stronger together. administrators understand the ins and outs To begin our work, I have appointed four task force committees to look at ways we can live into our objectives ala breve 7

AMEA Governing Board 2021-2022 President President-Elect Treasurer/Registrar Dr. Rob Lyda Dr. Phil Wilson Pat Stegall Cary Woods Elementary Ogletree Elementary School AMEA Registration School 737 Ogletree Road PO Box 3385 715 Sanders Street Auburn, AL 36830 Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 Auburn, AL 36830 (334) 538-9679 [email protected] 334-663-0898 [email protected] [email protected] President, ABA Recording Secretary Joel Henson Immediate Past President Heather Holmes Pelham High School David Raney Oak Mountain Middle School 2500 Panther Cir. Sparkman High School 5650 Cahaba Valley Road Pelham, AL 35124 2616 Jeff Road Birmingham AL 35242 (205) 616-7478 Harvest, AL 35749 (205) 682-5210 [email protected] 256-837-0331 [email protected] [email protected] President, ELEM/GEN President, AVA Sarah McLendon President, AOA Hilen Wilson Hillcrest Elementary Joseph Lee 6315 Mary Harmon Bryant Drive 400 E Watts St. PO Box 2532 Cottondale, AL 35453 Enterprise, AL 36330 Huntsville, AL 35804 (205) 454-3067 (334) 313-2116 (615) 397-4490 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] AMEA Collegiate Advisor President, HED Division President, AMEA Collegiate Dr. Meghan Merciers Dr. Carly Johnson Mariah Martin (205) 765-1144 University of North Alabama Alabama State University [email protected] UNA Box 5040 Department of Music 142 Music Building 915 S. Jackson Street Industry Representative Florence, AL 35632-0001 Montgomery, AL. 36104 Joey Harbison (256) 765-4518 (334) 229-4341 Gadsden Music Company [email protected] [email protected] 607 Broad Street PO Box 132 Assistant Executive Director Alabama Department of Education Gadsden, AL 35901 Editor, Ala Breve Arts Education Specialist 205-910-2622 Garry Taylor Andy Meadows [email protected] 1600 Manor Dr. NE 50 North Ripley Street Cullman, AL 35055 Montgomery, Alabama 36104 Executive Director (256) 636-2754 (334) 694-4768 Dr. Russell (Rusty) Logan [email protected] [email protected] 2020 Janabrooke Lane Auburn, AL 36830 a l a b r e v eugust 2022_Layout 1 6/27/2022 3:50 PM Page 1 May/June 2022 (334) 663-1702 The Official Publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association [email protected] Cover Photo by Yan Krukov: https://www.pexels.com Garry Taylor, Editor & Advertising Manager ADVERTISING & COPY DEADLINES www.myamea.org 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 [email protected] Spring - May/June (All-State issue:) January 15 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. Bulk rate postage paid at Dothan, Alabama. 8 August/September 2022

From the Registrar... It is not too early to start thinking about attending conference (registration is free for our AMEA Conference in January 2023. Just you) and renew your NAfME remember, you must join NAfME, and you should membership at a reduced rate. pre-register if possible. A healthy organization is always concerned with growth and development, and the Renew your membership now at AMEA board is interested in growing our organization www.nafme.org. Membership in NAfME is required and getting all music teachers in Alabama involved in for participation in state MEA-sponsored events like professional development through AMEA and the AMEA Conference, the Elementary Division Fall NAfME. You can help increase our membership by Conference, and All-State and Musical Performance communicating the benefits of membership to our Assessments. Joining NAfME secures your colleagues. When you are joining or renewing your membership in AMEA and your division. membership, think of those music teachers in your area that may not be active members, and send them a Register now for the 2023 AMEA conference online at message inviting them to join! You could send an email www.myamea.org. You will find it is easy and will save with their contact information to me at you time and money. Reunite with friends and [email protected] and I will invite them! colleagues from all over the state in January. Rejuvenate your energy, renew your enthusiasm, and join us as we Remind your colleagues to join. Include the new music gather in Birmingham. teachers (this year there are many new teachers out there), be involved as a mentor to the young music Pat Stegall, Registrar teachers, and invite the inactive music teachers that you know. If you just retired, keep coming to the Music at William Carey University The Winters School of Music invites you 2022/2023 Scholarship FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA to be a part of the William Carey family! @wmcareymusic Audition Days • Compe琀琀ve Scholarships for Undergraduate For More Music Majors and Non-Music Majors Friday, November 11 • 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Information Friday, January 13 • 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM • Mississippi’s FIRST All-Steinway School Friday, March 24 • 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Scan this QR Code • Undergraduate degrees o昀ered in Music Educa琀on, Worship Leadership, To reserve an audi琀on day or request a 琀me Worship Technology, Music Therapy, Performance, Dance, and more! that works be琀er for you, please email 9 [email protected] or call 601-318-6175. • FULLY ONLINE Doctor of Arts in Music, Master of Music Educa琀on, Master of Music in Worship Studies Save the Dates • Common-sense entrance requirements • Taught by caring, Chris琀an professionals Carey Honor Choir • October 21-22 • Masters degrees completed in one calendar year Carey Honor Band • February 23-25 • DA in Music coursework completed in two years Carey Jazz Fes琀val • March 25 • A昀ordable tui琀on ala breve

Hilen Wilson - President, Alabama Vocal Association Fall Updates and Reminders Ihope you all have had a wonderful summer and have en- Palkki from California State University at Long Beach as our joyed some time to rest and prepare for this year. The past clinician this year. He will be presenting relevant sessions on three years have been a difficult journey for all music edu- score study and lesson planning, gender expansive and trans cators, so I hope that you are refreshed and ready to take on singers, as well as a reading session. We will also have mini the new school year. The AVA Governing Board had an enjoy- break-out sessions, a performance from the University of able and productive summer board meeting and we are eager Montevallo Concert Choir, and our General Membership to get started on this year’s AVA events.  Meeting. Thank you so much to Melinda Doyle for hosting us again this year. All teachers in years 1-5 are invited to our New NAfME Membership Teacher Luncheon for a refresher on all AVA events and to If you have not already done so, please renew your NAfME connect with teachers in your district. I hope to see you all membership.  You can do so at www.nafme.org. NAfME there! membership is required to register for any AVA events.  Thank you for taking the time to read about our organization. Summer Board Decisions and Changes for 2022-2023 Again, I know this has been a difficult time for many of us, • Fees were adjusted and approved for the upcoming but please know that AVA is ready to continue working, advo- year.  cating, and providing the best vocal education that we can to • All-State Show Choir will not be held in conjunction our students. Please reach out if you see any area of our or- with AMEA this year. ASSC will be held at Spain Park ganization where you feel you can serve, or if you have any High School on April 12-14, 2023. The audition for- questions, concerns, or suggestions. Please see below contact mat will also be different this year - students will par- emails for members of the Executive Board as well as District ticipate in a vocal and dance audition via zoom.  Chairs. We all look forward to hearing from you and serving • Our handbook was revised and changes will be pre- you this year.  sented to the membership at Fall Workshop for a gen- eral membership vote.  Hilen Wilson, AVA President: [email protected] • Our clinicians for this year’s All-State Festival chose Amanda Slay, AVA President-Elect: [email protected] fantastic repertoire and I cannot wait for our students Jody Powell, AVA Vice President: [email protected] to work with them! Nichole Hill, AVA Recording Secretary: [email protected] o MS Mixed: Jose Rivera, the University of Meg Jones, AVA Executive Secretary: [email protected] North Carolina at Pembroke Matthew Gardner, District I Chair: [email protected] o MS Treble: Bridget Sweet, the University of Charles Henry, District II Chair: [email protected] Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Zachary Banks, District III Chair: [email protected] o HS TTBB: Charlotte Botha, Hamilton Col- Marlin Ward, District III Co-Chair: [email protected] lege Carrie Payne, District IV Chair: [email protected] o HS SSAA: Meredith Bowen, Radford Univer- Debbie Flynn, District V Chair: [email protected] sity Sallye York, District VI Chair: [email protected] o HS SATB: Francisco Nunez, Young People’s Christie Breland, District VII Chair: [email protected] Chorus of NYC Our district chairs will be hosting virtual district meetings in 2022-2023 AVA Events the first two weeks of school, so please be looking for those Please visit the AVA website to find the dates for all events for invitations soon. I hope everyone has a wonderful start to the year.  Be aware now of all registration deadlines and plan their school year and I look forward to seeing you all at Fall ahead to avoid paying any late fees.  Workshop! Fall Workshop Sincerely, Our next event will be Fall Workshop at the University of Hilen Wilson Montevallo on Friday, September 9.  I am excited to have Josh 10 August/September 2022

DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC HTTPS://WWW.UAB.EDU/CAS/MUSIC/

USA Bands

Dr. Carly Johnson, President, Higher Education Division The Future Depends on What We Do Today As we look ahead to a new school Alabama at Birmingham led by Dr. James preparation programs year, I want to take a moment to Zingara gave a stunning introduction to this throughout the United recognize and thank outgoing HED program, and then the tuba/euphonium States to emphasize, Division president, Dr. Michael Zelenak, for ensemble from Auburn University under the measure, and support the skills the wonderful leadership and insightful direction of Dr. Stephen Kunzer closed out and knowledge that all teachers need to vision that he has provided to the Higher Ed the program with an equally spectacular develop to be successful in the classroom, Division over the past two years. It has been performance! If you are interested in competition participants put into practice a joy to work with Michael on a variety of performing on the 2023 recital or would like what they need to master while receiving music-related projects, and I am extremely to have one of your students or student valuable feedback and advice from grateful for his continued friendship, chamber groups perform, look for the HED experienced music education specialists from support, and shared enthusiasm for teaching! Recital Call for Performers to be posted soon on several of the top music education programs I also want to take the opportunity to the 2023 AMEA conference website. institutions in the state of Alabama. This introduce two new members of our HED year, the competition will take place on leadership team: Dr. Stephen Foster, If research is your passion, another Saturday morning during the 2023 AMEA Director of Bands at Faulkner University, wonderful way to be involved at the 2023 professional development conference in who will serve as our new HED President- AMEA professional development January and will feature prizes and awards elect, and Dr. Brandon Slocumb, Chair of conference is by submitting a research poster for the most outstanding presentations. the Department of Fine Arts and proposal for inclusion on one of two Look for the HED/Collegiate Call for the Coordinator of the Music program at research poster sessions that will be edTPA Lesson Planning Competition to be Huntingdon College, who will be serving as presented by the HED division during the posted soon on the 2023 AMEA conference our new HED Secretary/Treasurer. 2023 conference. Look for the HED Call for website. Research Posters to also be posted soon on the Dr. Stephen Foster Dr. Brandon Slocumb 2023 AMEA conference website to find out In addition to these scholarly activities, there more details and how to submit your will also be plenty of opportunities to Now, let’s take a look at what all the Higher research poster proposal. The Higher Ed socialize and network during the conference Ed Division can offer to you in 2022-2023. division is also currently looking for including at our annual HED Friday If you are in search of professional volunteers to serve as presiders for our afternoon Luncheon and at our annual development opportunities, you will clinics and sessions that will take place HED/Collegiate Division Mixer that takes definitely want to read more about how to during the 2023 professional development place on Friday evening during the apply for and participate in the various conference in January, so if you would like conference. In closing, if you desire to be performance and presentation opportunities to serve in this capacity as a presider, please part of, and take a more active role in a available to HED members. If your email me at [email protected]. Presider stimulating, inclusive, diverse community of interests are in performance, we will be slots are available for all three days of the academics, educators, and artists from across programming not one, but two HED conference: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the state, then the HED Division is the place showcase recitals that will take place during so if you have a preference, let me know! for you! I look forward to connecting with the 2023 AMEA professional development each of you more throughout the upcoming conference in Birmingham in January. One One of our newest conference offerings has year and wish you all a wonderful start to the of the recitals will feature a program been the creation of an EdTPA Lesson new school year! comprised of artist faculty from a variety of Planning Competition in conjunction with universities and colleges across the state of the Collegiate Division and our CNAfME Alabama performing solo and chamber student leadership. This new competition works. The second recital will be an serves as a collaborative opportunity for our opportunity for applied instructors and collegiate CNAfME members to present and chamber ensemble coaches to feature their take part in meaningful professional undergraduate and/or graduate students development with seasoned members from from all disciplines and areas of applied the Higher Ed Division providing feedback, study in performance. Last year, the coaching, and support. The competition trumpet ensemble from the University of (really, more of a friendly and supportive showcase) allows for a stage on which our music education students can shine and acquire additional experience with the planning, preparing, and delivering of effective lesson plans. By utilizing the structural format of the edTPA performance-based, subject-specific assessment system used by teacher ala breve 13

Mariah Martin, President, Alabama cNAfME Collegiate Summer Updates and Announcements Dr. Meghan Merciers, Advisor This summer, cNAfME chapters across Alabama have been very active attending conferences, working as counselors/clinicians at summer music camps, and planning for the upcoming academic year! ALcNAfME President-Elect Sarah Hicks shares her experience from the 2022 NAfME Collegiate Advocacy Summit (virtual, June 23-25, 2022): “This was my second time attending the UNA cNAfME Officers Virtual Advocacy Summit, and not only did it live up to my expectations once the Collegiate Summit was a provided. We will also collaborate again again this year, but the collegiate board way to spend a weekend. I was this year with the Higher Ed Division went above and beyond to make this encouraged, educated, and informed. If on the edTPA Lesson Planning year’s conference incredibly relevant and given the opportunity, I will most Competition. The deadline for helpful to students. I made some definitely choose to attend again.” submissions will be November 1, 2022, fantastic connections with collegiate with finalists to present at the 2023 students all across the country as we had In addition to the summer activities, AMEA Conference in Birmingham, AL. a virtual mixer, many opportunities to your new ALcNAfME Executive Board converse with each other, and were has been busy planning the 2022 Stay tuned for submission information greatly encouraged to reach out to those Collegiate Summit, “Unity,” which will in our upcoming newsletter to submit whose ideas inspired us. The sessions be held at the centrally-located chapter updates. Be sure to check out and speakers were phenomenal, my University of Alabama Moody Music our Instagram @cnafme_al and tag us favorite being the panel which featured Building on Sunday, October 23, 2022, in your event posts! Johnny Hamiel, Rob Lyda, Dave from 1:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m. We will Kauffman, and Jazzmone Sutton. The feature speakers on a diverse number of UNA Chapter Spotlight: panel shared personal stories and topics, an early-career teacher panel, and experiences that gave me so much hope for the first time ever we will host music The members, officers, and advisors of for my future. It was really powerful to sight-reading sessions. Dinner will be hear from these highly recognized professionals who struggled with insecurities, with music theory, and with finding their first job just like I have. The highlight of the Summit was the breakout rooms on Saturday which took students step-by-step through PRAXIS and EdTPA, allowing us to choose areas such as strings, music technology, or specific parts of the EdTPA that we wanted more information on. Overall, 14 August/September 2022

UNAcNAfME are here to help our teaching and conducting, how to get UA Chapter Spotlight: music students in any way we can. You students involved, different types of can find us helping out at departmental instrument techniques, and I’ve also Officers: student recital hours, junior and senior attended several music conferences.” Noah Graham, President recitals, ensemble concerts, honor band, John Niiler, Vice-President MPA, All-State Prep Clinics, and more. Aleesa Parnell is also serving her Mariah Martin, Secretary In the past, UNA’s cNAfME has helped second year as our Historian. She is a Alexander McMahon, Treasurer plan, fund, and host a variety of events cellist in the Shoals Symphony Orchestra Rosemary Caldwell, Instrumental Rep geared towards our music education as well as a soprano in the UNA choir. Meredith Taylor, Choral Rep students. Some events we have planned “I always tell people my favorite days are Sarah Quinn Richey, General Music Rep for this upcoming season are conducting Tuesdays because I get to teach strings Audrey Colabrese, Public Affairs masterclasses, sight-reading sessions, at Kilby Laboratory School, tutor middle vocal technique classes, education schoolers, and then go to a NAfME UA’s chapter goals are to support seminars, and guest speakers on varying meeting. It’s my three favorite things: through community outreach and topics. music, education, and friends.” togetherness, to advocate for those who need a voice in the world of music, and This year’s President, Mary Elizabeth UNA’s cNAfME officers would like to to enrich by providing professional Howze, is a violinist in both the Shoals thank our advisors, Dr. Meghan development for our fellow future music Symphony Orchestra and the UNA Merciers, Dr. Tom Lukowicz, Professor educators. We plan to provide more Contemporary Ensemble. She is also a Christina Volz-Stomackin, and Dr. enriching speakers to our members to strings teacher at Kilby Laboratory Gretchen Windt, for all of their help provide them a more well-rounded School. Her goal as a future music and support in our chapter. To stay in development track that can be educator is to inspire students to be the touch with our UNA cNAfME transferred to any discipline or task. best they can be and to teach them the community, you can like us on Facebook Service projects include volunteering to importance of music education and how at UNA National Association for Music help and facilitate the smooth operation impactful it can be. Education Collegiate Chapter or follow of honor bands and festivals held in the us on Instagram @unafme. music building. To stay in touch with our Our President-Elect, Colby Allison, is a UA cNAfME community, you can percussionist in the UNA Band as well follow us on Instagram @ua_cnafme. as a tenor in the UNA choir. His goal for the upcoming cNAfME year is, “to see the membership grow and focus on growing our teaching skills to better help us in the future.” Our Treasurer, Macey Vandiver, is both a trumpet player in the UNA Band and an alto in the UNA Choirs. She believes that cNAfME has given her opportunities to experience what it’s really like to be a music educator. “Through being in this chapter, I have been given resources, friendships, and experiences that will help me in my future career.” Taylor Romanczuk is serving her UA cNAfME Chapter second year as our Secretary. She is a senior majoring in Choral Music Education. cNAfME is important to her because “It gives future music educators the ability to explore what music really has to offer. I’ve learned a lot about ala breve 15

Sarah McLendon-  President, Elementary/General Division Give it Away The existential question: What age, we were listening to and moving year teaching our favorite musicians! is the meaning of life? This to music. As we got older, many of Upcoming Dates: question has probably been us took lessons on an instrument or asked by just about everyone in voice. We have been gifted with the East Alabama General Music Workshop, history. And you will receive a ability to read, analyze, and make Saturday, August 27, 9 am - 1 pm, different answer from just about music. Auburn; Clinician - Dr. Scott Sexton everyone that you ask. Pablo Picasso According to Miriam-Webster, the said, “The meaning of life is to find definition of a teacher is “one whose Elementary Music Festival, Friday, your gift. The purpose of life is to occupation is to instruct.” Teachers October 14, Metropolitan Church of give it away.” help students learn by giving subject God in Birmingham, Alabama; knowledge to them in situations Conductors -Cristi Cary Miller & Dr. We have two gifts: music and where they can learn. We create a Scott Sexton teaching. loving, safe environment; an environment where our students can Joint Fall Workshop sponsored by ”Music is the universal language of learn and succeed. Elementary/General Division of mankind.” Music has no boundaries. AMEA, AOSA, and SHAKE, Saturday, Everyone can enjoy music regardless Children are fun! We lead the October 15, 8:30 am - 1 pm at of age, language, religion, or culture. students in their discoveries. We get Metropolitan Church of God Music can make us feel the full to see the lightbulb go off when they spectrum of emotions. Music can finally get it! We make a difference cure insomnia and anxiety. Music is in the lives of children every day. We magical! teach life lessons from failures and successes. We get to see our We have spent our lifetimes learning students grow up before our eyes. our craft. What other professionals start to prepare for their careers in We know our gift, now go give it infancy? None of them! At an early away! Best wishes on a fabulous new NAfME In-Service Conference, Nov 2- 6, 2022, National Harbor, Maryland American Orff-Schulwerk Association, National Professional Development Conference, November 2-5, 2022, Kansas City, Missouri 2023 AMEA Professional Development Conference, January 19 - 21, 2023, BJCC - Birmingham, AL; Clinicians - Sandy Lantz & Gretchen Wahlberg 16 August/September 2022

General Music Reviews byDeannaBell Welcome Back to School! Deanna Bell Vestavia Hills Elementary East Music Teacher Adjunct Professor of Music Education, Miles College and UAB Conductor of the Birmingham Wind Ensemble The Summer of 2022 has taught me a lot of things. One is how to rest and relax. The other is finding the right balance between work and life. Teaching during Covid has changed me. I am sure that it has changed all of us. One thing I want to bring back to school with me this year is happiness and joy. I want to laugh everyday with my friends and have fun teaching like I use too. Is it possible to have fun teaching at school? I say Yes! Forget about the things that make us stressed. Don’t worry about the things that you cannot change. Make the best of the situation you have and go from there. One thing I am looking forward to is the release of Julie Andrews’ new book “The First Notes, The Story of Do, Re, Mi.” Overview: “Centuries ago, a young Italian monk named Guido longed to find a way to write and teach music. Eventually, he created the musical scale, using the words Do-Re-Mi-Fa-Sol-La-Ti-Do...one syllable for each note. Though the other monks thought it was a waste of time, Guido's music couldn't be silenced. His discovery remains the foundation for learning music today, and inspired the famous song “Do-Re-Mi,” which Julie Andrews sang in the beloved movie The Sound of Music.” Julie Andrews and her daughter have written over 30 children’s books together and I am really looking forward to this story. There are so many musical possibilities with this book. The book will be released on November 1, 2022. If you have any ideas, share them! Post your ideas on the Orff or Kodály Facebook page. Let’s discuss this at AMEA and share our new and fun ideas. Let’s have something that we are all working on together that is fun for us and our students! Want to host a zoom party and discuss the book? Want to brainstorm ideas of how to write an Orff accompaniment with our new beginning teachers? Let’s use this year to reconnect to each other and to reconnect to our craft. As you prepare for the next school year, the best thing you can do for yourself is to join professional organizations. Join NAfME, AOSA, and OAKE. (Make sure you select the Alabama Chapters as your state organizations.). These organizations will provide the support your need and connect you to a network of endless ideas! Don’t forget, HAVE FUN! ala breve 17

Joel Henson- President, Alabama Bandmasters Association Alabama Bandmasters Take Time to Enjoy the Experience Association By the time this article is published, Marchmaster Inc., Custom Fundraising please notify these people.  many of you will be in the heat of marching season or getting Solutions, AWB Apparel, Performance • Due to the rising cost of services prepared to start students on their musical Carts, Demoulin Brothers and Company, journey. This time of year is always so and venues, the budget exciting for students and directors alike. Many of the things we do are the same Best in Class Tours, Terry Ownby committee recommended and year after year. We will be reminding our students about posture, hand position, Consulting, Samford University School of board approved fee increases to sunscreen, hydration, and all the things that go with being a successful musician. the Arts, Arts Music, American Travel MPA, State Solo Festival, and However, it doesn’t matter if this is your first or last year teaching, nothing is ever Consulting, and Southern Performances. State Level All-State for 2022- exactly the same every year of our careers. We are so grateful to our sponsors for 2023. MPA Registration will Students keep the journey of being a band director fresh, interesting, and fun. The their longstanding support of our increase to $2 per student; school pandemic has taught us to never take anything for granted. It is my hope that organization. We will return to the Perdido fee remains the same. State Solo through the hustle and bustle of one of the busiest times in our professional lives, Beach Resort next year from June 19 to Festival increases to $35 per we take time to enjoy the experience. Remember that band is supposed to be June 22, 2023. I hope you make plans to audition and there is a new $10 fun not only for our students but for us attend. school fee. Lastly, State Level All directors as well.  The ABA Board had a very productive State Registrations will increase to The Summer Conference at Perdido meeting at the Summer Conference. $40 per student with a $50 school Beach Resort was a huge success. This Attached are some highlights from these fee. These fee changes will allow new venue was super accommodating to meetings: us to continue to provide our membership. Our keynote speaker, meaningful experiences for our Jon Bubbett, was a perfect way to start our event. He reminded us that what we do • The board adopted new sheets students. matters and to imagine our own children’s faces on the faces of our students when for Solo and Ensemble for 2023. • The board heard three proposals we are having to make tough decisions. Those will be available for your Keith Anderson presented a clinic that perusal soon on our website for All-State 2025 and 2026. All gave directors practical ways to adapt under the Solo and Ensemble tab. State 2025 and 2026 will be back stock drumline parts to make them both in Mobile at the Outlaw more interesting and effective. Nathan • The board adopted a new policy Convention Center. Haskew’s clinic made a correlation between the moving “Turning Red” and the addressing e-print scores at MPA. Please look for legislation in the next middle school band culture. The shrimp Please make sure you review it at Alabreve and website regarding: boil was catered by the resort and was your convenience. It will be quite a feast. The bread pudding was the truth! published under the MPA tab on • Bylaw revision from the It was also great to get new and fresh ideas the website. Constitution Committee from our friends at Southwind Drum and Bugle Corp Elanders Frazier and Terry • The nominating committee is • Jazz Music Performance Sanders. Thank you to Fruhauf Uniforms, District I and II: Emily Parker Assessment (Hampton Cove MS), District III • MPA Classification Revision and IV: Daniel Seay, Chairman (Muscle Shoals MS), District V In closing, make sure you have renewed your Nafme membership. Our website is and VI: Alex Johnson directly linked to NAfME and will change your status and credentials if you are not a (Montgomery Catholic), and member in good standing. Best wishes for District VII and VIII: Sean Noah a successful and memorable year of (McGill-Toolen HS). If you have music-making and life-changing suggestions for the offices of the experiences. President-Elect, Recording Secretary, or Jazz Chair-elect, Future All-State Band Festival Dates APRIL 27-29 2023) VON BRAUN CENTER-HUNTSVILLE APRIL 25-27, 2024 VON BRAUN CENTER-HUNTSVILLE APRIL 9-12, 2025 OUTLAW CONVENTION CENTER- MOBILE APRIL 15-18, 2026 OUTLAW CONVENTION CENTER- MOBILE 18 August/September 2022

Ben Posey, Jazz Chair 2022-2023 Jazz Education in Alabama We have some exciting new op- conference from January 19-21, 2023 at Adjudicated events. Research into an portunities offered by the Jazz the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention MPA-like event for jazz bands found that Education Division for this Complex. We are proud to announce a there are enough jazz bands in our state next school year. First, we are looking remarkable panel of clinicians to work that would like to see ABA-sanctioned forward to another fantastic year hearing with our students at this event. The clini- regional adjudicated events in addition to our state’s best student jazz musicians cians for this year’s All-State Jazz Bands clinic opportunities for their jazz pro- audition for and perform at the 2023 All- include Todd Stoll, the Jazz at Lincoln grams. We believe annual ABA-sanc- State Jazz Band festival as well as other Center’s Vice President of Education in tioned jazz events can develop growth in events that are being planned throughout New York, Dr. Dave Camwell, Director our state’s jazz programs, support jazz Alabama. The All State Jazz Band audi- of Jazz Studies and Associate Professor education in our state, and increase par- tions are some of the earliest auditions of Music at Troy University, Theo Ver- ticipation and preparedness at other jazz on our ABA calendar. We hope you will non, Director of Bands at Grissom High events and festivals. We encourage you encourage your students to submit their School, and Kim Bain, retired from to review the proposed legislation best recordings for this event. Pizitz Middle School and past ABA Jazz through alaband.org. Education Chair. With such a remarkable The All State Jazz Band audition regis- group of educators, we hope to see many We hope you have a wonderful start to tration deadline is Nov. 1, 2022, and the of your students involved in the All-State the school year. Please feel free to con- student audition recordings are due by Jazz Band auditions and festival tact us if there is anything we can do to the end of the day on Nov. 15, 2022. All process. help you or your students prepare for any registration information and audition ma- jazz events. terial can be found through alaband.org. In addition to our annual All-State Jazz Directors must be registered through ala- Band festival, a new opportunity to sup- Benjamin C. Posey, band.org to register students for All-State port jazz programs in our state has been Jazz Education Chair Jazz auditions. Students will record and in the process for some time. The Jazz [email protected] submit their auditions virtually as we Education Division, with the help of sev- have done in the past. eral peer reviewers and the feedback of Nic McDonald, the ABA Board, has a legislative pro- Jazz Education Chair-Elect The 2023 All-State Jazz Band festival posal for the ABA membership to con- [email protected] will be in conjunction with the AMEA sider for potential Regional Jazz AMEA Presidents - Past to Present 1946 Yale H. Ellis 1974 George Hammett 2000 John McAphee, Jr. 1948 Walter A. Mason 1975 Frances P. Moss 2002 Tony Pike 1950 Vernon Skoog 1976 S. J. Allen 2004 Becky Rodgers 1952 John J. Hoover 1978 W. Frank McArthur 2006 John Baker 1954 Lamar Triplett 1980 Paul Hall 2008 Pat Stegall 1956 Carleton K. Butler 1982 Lacey Powell, Jr. 2010 Steve McLendon 1958 Mort Glosser 1984 Johnny Jacobs 2012 Sara Womack 1960 Wilbur Hinton 1986 Merilyn Jones 2014 Carl Hancock 1962 Lacey Powell, Jr. 1988 Ronald D. Hooten 2016 Susan Smith 1964 G. Truman Welch 1990 Ken Williams 2018 Greg Gumina 1966 Jerry Countryman 1992 Dianne Johnson 2020 David Raney 1968 Floyd C. McClure 1994 James K. Simpson 2022 Rob Lyda 1970 Jerry Bobo 1996 Johnnie Vinson 1972 Frances P. Moss 1998 Michael Meeks ala breve 19

Tri-M National Music Honor Society Spotlight:Tri-MAuStbauternCHhaigphteSr cohfotohle Year Auburn High School’s Tri-M chapter 8907 was established everyone that music is a vital role to In order to be a member in good in 2018 by our Director of our education system. Music gives standing each student must complete every student participating a voice ten hours of service per semester. Bands, Deanna Marshall and senior and a place to belong. That is what student Noel Lange the 2018 Tri-M I want Tri-M to represent.” President. When asking Mrs. Marshall what her goal was for this Tri-M chapter 8281 accepts Tri-M chapter her response was members from band, choir, auxiliary simple, but to the point. “My goal is groups, piano and music theory to foster the love of all music while classes. We average a current giving back to our community membership of around140 students through various community projects. since inception. All in hopes that it will remind ® Start a chapter at your school in 3 EASY STEPS! Join the only national honor society for student musicians in grades 6-12. 2,100 CHAPTERS 84,000 STUDENT MEMBERS MusicHonors.com | [email protected] | 1-800-336-3768 20 August/September 2022

We are especially proud of our would like to extend their sincerest community. continued effort to help our local thanks for being selected as the food bank, East Alabama Food 2021-2022 Tri-M Chapter of the https://auburnhstrim.weebly.com Bank. We have collected between year for the state of Alabama. We 900-1,100 pounds of food annually. appreciate the recognition of our Follow us on Instagram We also had our first ever benefit students and their dedication to @auburnhs_tri_m concert to support the Auburn Toy being ambassadors of music in our Drive where we collected $400 in cash donations as well as over 160 toys. Tri-M also assists the Auburn Band Parents Association during football season by restocking the concession stands for home games. We have also helped in the recruitment process for beginning band, providing ushers at concerts for band and choir programs, providing music outreach programs to elementary schools, and being ambassadors of music throughout our community. Most activities are student led by our current chapter president Hannah Herring and organized with director assistance. The Auburn High Tri-M Chapter ĈinĦ ķwoiĺuĪį at Samford’s School of the Arts Division of Music Samford University offers degrees in composition, commercial music, music education, music and worship, instrumental, piano, and voice performance, and piano performance and pedagogy. [email protected] • 205-726-4111 • samford.edu/arts 21 Samford University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Employer. ala breve

Campus and euphonium, upper level music theory Connections and aural skills courses, and serve as the Director of the ASU Trombone Choir. Colleges and universities are encouraged to submit newsworthy materials and announcements for publication in Ala Breve Dr. Shane Colquhoun was recently appointed Assistant Jacksonville State University/ teach and perform at the International Professor of Music David L. Walters Department of Music Festival of Flutists in Lima, Peru in May Technology and 2023. Contemporary The JSU Marching Southerners have Musical Styles, a new been awarded the 2022 Sudler Dr. Benson's flute student, Sierra position for the Trophy by the John Philip Sousa Tolhurst, was named a winner in the Department of Music Foundation. Established in 1982, the national Delta Omicron Solo Artist at Alabama State Sudler Trophy recognizes collegiate Competition. She will perform a recital University. Dr. marching bands of particular excellence in Washington, D.C. in the summer of Colquhoun completed that have made outstanding contributions 2022. his Ph.D in Music Education from to the American way of life. It is awarded Auburn University, a Master of Education biannually to a college or university Mr. Clint Gillespie, Associate Director of in Music, and a Master of Education in marching band that has demonstrated the Bands, will be inducted into the Spirit of the Administration of Higher Education, highest musical standards, the most Atlanta Hall of Fame on August 6th. both from Auburn University, and the innovative marching routines, and ideas, Bachelor of Arts degree in Music and has made important contributions to Dr. Andy Nevala, Director of Jazz Studies, Technology and Business from Bethune- the advancement of college marching has been invited to perform at the Jazz Cookman University, and brings a wealth band performance standards. The Education Network's (JEN) Annual of teaching experience from serving as Marching Southerners staff includes Dr. Conference in Orlando, FL on January 7, Director of Bands at Loachapoka High Ken Bodiford, Director of Bands, Mr. 2023. School for fourteen years prior to his Clint Gillespie, Associate Director of appointment at ASU. At ASU, Dr. Bands, Dr. Jeremy Stovall, Assistant Alabama State University Colquhoun will teach music technology Director of Bands, Mr. Rodney Bailey, and music education courses, along with Colorguard Coordinator, and Ms. Noelle Dr. Jonathan courses focused on the study of African- Stovall, Ballerina Coordinator. Houghtling was American musical styles in both recently appointed contemporary classical and commercial The JSU Percussion Ensemble conducted Assistant Professor of musical settings. by Dr. Matthew Gray Jordan has been Trombone/ Theory selected to perform at the Percussive Arts for the Department ASU piano professor, Dr. Adonis Society International Conference (PASIC) of Music at Alabama Gonzalez-Matos recently celebrated the in November 2022. State University. Dr. release of a new CD, Cuba, Alabama, Houghtling completed from Blue Griffin Records, available on all Dr. Jeremy Benson, Professor of flute, a Doctor of Musical major streaming services, in collaboration has been selected as a Main Guest Artist Arts degree in Trombone Performance with clarinetist Dr. Osiris Molina from the for the 2023 Florida Flute Convention in from the University of Alabama, a Master University of Alabama, and guitarist Rene Orlando, Florida. He will present a full- of Music degree in Trombone Izquierdo from the University of length recital and teach master Performance and Artist Diploma from Wisconsin-Milwaukee, that features class/lectures for over 500 flutists on DePaul University, and the Bachelor of contemporary Cuban music by Cuban January 27-28, 2023, in Orlando, Florida. Music degree in Trombone Performance composers Andrés Alén, Leo Brouwer, from the Jacobs School of Music at Paquito D'Rivera, Javier Zalba, and an Dr. Jeremy Benson has also been invited Alabama State University. At ASU, Dr. arrangement of Ernesto Lecuona's La as one of two USA Ambassadors to Houghtling will teach applied trombone Comparsa by Daniel Western. 22 August/September 2022

UA Bands 1

To learn more about Music at UAH, contact us at [email protected]. AUDITION INFO: UAH.EDU/MUSIC/AUDITIONS

EVERYONE DREAMS WE MAKE IT REAL JOHN M. LONG SCHOOL OF MUSIC DEGREE PROGRAMS UNDERGRADUATE GRADUATE • Bachelor of Music Education • MS in Music Education 334-670-3322 • BA in General Music [email protected] • BS in Music Industry • Graduate concentration troy.edu/music in Music Industry (MBA)

University of Montevallo Department of Music 205-665-6670 montevallo.edu/music @montevallomusic @um_musicdepartment Events For Middle & High School Students Sept. 30, 2022 Festival of Voices Oct. 15, 2022 All-State Choir Workshop Nov. 5, 2022 Single Reed Symposium Feb. 17-18, 2023 Middle School Honor Band March 3-5, 2023 High School Honor Band March 21, 2023 Choral Festival Day Auditions For Scholarships Jan. 28, 2023 Scan the QR code to learn more Feb. 25, 2023 about Music at Montevallo March 4, 2023 Honor Band participants only March 18, 2023

FAME Scholarship Essay By Heather Medlin AMEA recently awarded the FAME scholarship to Heather Medlin, a 2022 graduate of Muscle Shoals High School. Scholarship recipients must have attended the FAME program and plan to major in music education at an Alabama university. Heather plans to major in music education at the University of North Alabama. It is difficult to articulate the educator because of her extreme passion for this, though, was the sense of belonging that exact moment or reason that I the arts, and even greater still, her devotion I and others gained by being a part of these decided to become a music to making sure her students truly programs and classes. I began to notice how teacher. I was influenced by an army of understood what they were being taught and much of an impact that simply being a part wonderful teachers, a love for all things knew their potential. When I entered my of a chorus or band class made on others, related to music, and an impulsive need to seventh-grade year, she took a chance on me many had no prior connection to music or explain everything I knew to everyone I met. and recommended that I audition for All- that had simply enrolled in the class for a As I grew older, I began to think excessively State Chorus. She helped me throughout the credit. I experienced a growth in my own about the mark I wanted to make on the audition process, and the experience that I character and confidence by being involved, world. Through this process, I found a was awarded by attending the All-State but I also watched as others came out of reason to definitively set my goals on festival helped me blossom into a better their shell and found an outlet and an teaching. I realized the best way that I could performer and sparked my life-long love for accepting, loving community through make a positive impact on others was to the choral arts. By exposing me to my performing arts. Throughout my teach them. potential in choral music, she helped me involvement with the performing arts, I My motivation for making a discover a part of myself that I wouldn’t watched everyone who walked through the positive impact through teaching stems have known otherwise and in turn began my doors be positively affected in some way by directly from the immense impact that my path to eventually choosing to teach choral surrounding themselves with the arts. While past teachers have had on me as I have music as a career. gaining a well-rounded education and developed as a student, as a musician, and as becoming well-versed in the important a person. From the time that I began my As I entered high school, I began language of music are certainly crucial schooling, I was extremely blessed to sit to realize that education was so much more aspects of the importance of music under the teaching of many passionate, than teaching a subject. My teachers gave me education, I believe that the community and caring, and skilled educators in both the fine many opportunities to advance my creative outlet that is available for students arts and in my regular studies. As a young scholarship and musicianship, but they also through the existence of arts programs is a child, I was fortunate to have teachers who helped me develop my sense of self. For the unique and principal reason that every child not only tolerated my energetic and -at majority of my educational career, I had should have access to them. times- unusual behavior but also showed me been struggling with undiagnosed attention how to focus this energy on becoming a deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD). This In my future classrooms, I will do better student. They also showed me that it struggle came to a head in my junior year of everything necessary to create this kind of was acceptable, and even imperative, to be high school, when one of my teachers environment for my students. As a person unique. I carried these teachings with me noticed that my grades were dropping and who has gained so much from teachers who until I arrived at middle school, where I was that I seemed overwhelmed in class. With were passionate about the success of their exposed to music on a larger scale than I had her recommendation and help, I was able to students both in and out of the classroom, I ever experienced before, and where I get diagnosed with ADHD and I received hope to spend every day teaching and caring eventually fell in love with it. the help I needed to continue to succeed for my future students in a way that would As I began to play the clarinet in academically and in all aspects of my life impact them on an educational and personal the band and sing in the show choir, I that this disorder affected. This situation level, ensuring that I do everything I can to learned that music was not only something showed me that as a future teacher, I wanted allow my students to be the best that they that I could consume for my own enjoyment to be able to help students in the same way. can be. I hope to provide students with the but also something that I could be a part of education and opportunities they need to be and create for others. Music became Through my own experience as a successful not only in music but in life. The something positive that I could offer to the neurodivergent student and from the final thing that I will focus on is providing world -something that was bigger than just experiences of others around me, I have an outlet for those students like me who myself. At the core of my discovery of come to realize why access to education - need a space to feel belonging; a space that music and its role in my life were the especially music education- is so deeply would not reinforce their insecurities, but amazing music teachers that guided me and important for developing students. As a rather let them shine and show them that molded me into the best musician I could member of my high school’s choir and band, they are seen. I believe this is something that be. My band directors demonstrated the I was given an army of supporters both in uniquely comes from an arts education, and importance of excellence in music and my peers and in my teachers. I was also a reason why I wish for the inclusion of ensured that all students felt welcome and at given an outlet in music, and I was shown strong arts programs for all schools, and I’m home inside the band program. My middle my potential and future purpose in music excited to one day be a small part of the school choral teacher was especially education by the leadership and large impact these programs make on the influential in my decision to become a music performance opportunities I was given. lives of students. Perhaps even more important than all of ala breve 27

Improving the Woodwind Section Tips That Click Editor’s Note: This article first appeared in the February/March 2011 Ala Breve. While the biographical information of the contributors may be out of date, the tips and Areader of this column requested that a collection of advice offered are just as relevant today as they were when first published. hints specific to helping directors improve their woodwind air so they're not covered by the brass little to relieve the tension in the right sections would be useful to him and and percussion and their sound will be shoulder. It may be a good idea for other young directors. It seems that characteristic of the instrument. I flutes to not share a stand if possible problems with the woodwind have the reed players (clarinets and to avoid bad playing posture. instruments are a continuing concern saxes) use lots of mouthpiece. I tell to even the most experienced directors, them to put enough mouthpiece in Clarinets and ALL reed players need at and we all are always looking for good their mouth until they squeak. Then, least three working/playable reeds at advice! I polled several of the top they back off the tiniest bit until there every rehearsal. Be sure they are not directors in the state for their solutions are no squeaks. That's about the right too soft or too hard for the level of the that can be offered from the podium amount of mouthpiece they should player. They need to check to see if that will reinforce or create good use. I have the flutes keep their heads the reed “seals” on the mouthpiece woodwind playing. up and, when they blow across the every day. In general, when the clarinet headjoint, I have them think of a laser plays top line G and above, they need Suzanne Winter is the recently retired beam of air going across. This helps to back off the speed of air a bit to director of the Pizitz Middle School them focus the sound. For double allow these notes to NOT sound Bands, which she directed to many reeds, I make sure they have enough spread or too strong. The same advice state and regional honors. She reed in their mouth and that they keep goes for the saxophones as far as reeds suggests: “One thing that directors can the air constant to help provide a rich and check to see if they seal on the do, that many don't think of, is to have sound.” mouthpiece. Check for too much or flutists slightly raise the head as they too little mouthpiece in the mouth and descend the scale (or as music is in the Theo Vernon is the Director of The be sure the neck strap (They MUST lower part of the staff). It also helps Symphonic Band II and the Jazz Bands have a neck strap) is low so they are to raise the head slightly as a note is at Grissom High School in Huntsville. not tilting their head forward and up. sustained for a long time. As you Besides being a great director, he is one Their chins should be pointed down a know, the tendency is to play flat on of the busiest performers in the state little. Their size will determine sustained tones and in the lower and provides these helpful woodwind whether the alto is played in front of octaves, so the raising of the head insights: “Flutes need more room them or to the right side. When they helps intonation tremendously. The around their chairs than any other are tall enough I prefer the horn in the director just has to use body language instrument. Have them turn their middle of their bodies but NOT to remind the flutes about what to do.” chairs out \"towards the audience\" and resting on the chair seat. Have them bring their flutes up as if they are think of blowing their airstream at Our next contributor is Dr. Leslie playing the clarinet. Then they turn their left thumb at the thumb rest. Welker who is the director of the their head to the left and flip their This helps to focus the air better. Hillcrest/Duncanville Middle School wrists up to bring the lip plate to their Band, which performed for us in lips. Their elbows need to be down Oboe and bassoons need three January at the AMEA Conference. Her and relaxed. Their music stand should working reeds too if possible and advice concerning the woodwind be adjusted appropriately so they can affordable. With the changes in section is as follows: “I stress to the see the music without having to move weather and temperature in every woodwinds that they should sit up their head, arm, and hand position. venue, it is a must. Check for how straight and fill their instruments with This can be very foreign to many that much reed is going in the mouth. Too are not used to doing this but it can much and it will sound very spread and make a difference. Also, have them unfocused. Too little and it will sound push their right arm/elbow forward a very thin. 28 August/September 2022

have a limited dynamic potential. If woodwinds try and play louder than they can, lots of bad things happen like bad tone, bad blend, and bad intonation. While it is true that from time to time to achieve a specific effect we should allow the brass and percussion to dominate the band sound, most bands could raise their evaluation at festivals a whole level by just balancing to the woodwinds. Bass Clarinets need to have the proper that enter your band room, and allow One reason for not playing length on the post and the post should them only in your jazz band. transcriptions is a lack of be positioned under their chair in front 3. Reeds: I still recommend the understanding of the woodwind sound of them between their legs at an angle Vandoren, Purple box, strength 3. within the texture of the band. Many so their head is tilted down a little. This modern composers have replaced the will help to insure the proper angle of 4..If you do a lot of tuning exercises traditional role of principal clarinet the mouthpiece. It also depends upon on F concert (Remington etc.), don't with principal percussion or lead what brand instrument and neck they be surprised if your altos and baris trumpet. While many of these are playing on too to determine the sound sharp. The D is quite sharp on contemporary compositions are proper angle. We use synthetic reeds all brands. Concert A is a much better exciting, the woodwinds are often little http://www.legere.com/ for all our tuning note. more than chord organs. The low reed instruments. They are great woodwind choir is a beautiful blend and last a very long time!” Our final contributor, Professor that we can use to raise the whole level Raymond Smith, is the woodwind of our groups. Kim Bain is the Director of the instructor and Director of the Concert outstanding Pizitz Middle School Band band at Troy University. In his thirty- I encourage every band director to find a ‘first call” saxophone player for the plus years of teaching, he has guided ways to make every section an major professional performances in the students and bands at all levels, from important part of the whole. We Birmingham area. She offers a checklist elementary to graduate school. His woodwinds understand that in the of several important points for helping advice is not so much a “quick fix” marching band we will never be as loud the saxophone section. from the podium, but some good long- as the brass and percussion. BUT - we term guidelines to help the need our turn. We chose the concert 1. The instrument needs to be in top development of the overall band band. Most band directors think working conditions. Leaky pads make program. He states: “I am a believer nothing of hiring outside help for their fuzzy, unfocused sounds. that good band sound, good dance line, percussion, or flags, while woodwind tone, good intonation, and the flutes, clarinets, and saxophones are 2. Mouthpiece selection: Vandoren good technique begins with targeted mostly left to figure it out on their Optimum AL3 for altos and Rousseau listening. While most band directors own. I submit that playing a flute is a New Classic for Tenor. Of course, the preach to listen down to the bass little more complicated than most flag standard is the Selmer C star, but this section for intonation, they seldom do routines. Let’s spend as much time and mouthpiece has become quite pricy. a good job of teaching to balance to money on the clarinets as we do on the Run away from any metal mouthpieces the woodwind section. The woodwinds drum line.” Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmaster Fraternity is committed to improving quality instruction and advancement of bands in this state. Please email [email protected] with any comments on this column or suggestions for future columns. ala breve 29

educator, taught general music and strings, had a baby, and graduated with a Masters in Early Childhood Special Education. Editor: Why did you decide on a career in music education? Teacher Profile JKF: I have known my entire life I Jordan Kirchner Ford wanted to be a teacher. My mother was a teacher, and I saw how impactful sharing knowledge with others can be. In middle school and high school, I experienced how important music was in my personal development, much beyond getting grades for a subject in school. As an adult, I want to share those experiences with the students of the future. I’m also a sucker for the lightbulb moments when someone understands something they didn’t before. Editor’s Note: School, as well as teach the Editor: Who are some of your violin/viola class and coordinate the teachers/colleagues that you would This Teacher Profile marks the first other afterschool string classes at consider mentors and why? in what we hope becomes a regular Thompson Intermediate School. This feature of Ala Breve. Each issue program is in its beginning years, as JKF: Being a lifelong musician will spotlight a different music the 2021-2022 school year was the means I am very blessed to have educator from across the full first with a full orchestra program! MANY mentors, both from when I spectrum of AMEA - new teachers, was in school to now as an in-service experienced teachers, retired Editor: Tell us about your teacher. My violin teacher back home teachers, and teachers from each of background – hometown, college, in Knoxville, Kathy Hart, and my AMEA’s different divisions. We family, etc. high school orchestra director, Peggy begin the series with Jordan Jones are two of the biggest reasons I Kirchner Ford. JKF: I grew up in Knoxville, TN, and developed into a music educator, started playing the violin when I was even before going to get a degree for Editor: Briefly tell us about your four. Knoxville was an amazing place it. During school, my music current position, how long you’ve to be a string player, as they have a education professors, Dr. Tim Heath been there, and a little about your vibrant youth orchestra program, as and Dr. Susanne Burgess had the schedule. well as orchestras in most of their biggest impact on my drive, schools. I moved to Birmingham to understanding, and love for music JKF: I am the Orchestra Director for attend Samford University and education. I also was so lucky to Alabaster City Schools. I direct graduated from there with my music student teach with the best of the best orchestra ensembles at Thompson education degree. Since graduation, I at both the elementary and secondary Middle School and Thompson High have gotten married to a fellow music levels, John Keyton at Bluff Park 30 August/September 2022

Elementary and Jon Bubbett and stuff up. Luckily, my students always Editor: How do you spend your Justin White at Thompson High kept me straight. summer breaks? School. All three are still to this day willing to lend a listening ear when I Editor: Name one accomplishment My summer breaks are spent doing need help, and I am so grateful. As an that fills you with pride so far in all of the adult things I put off during in-service teacher, I am constantly your career. the school year. I also love getting learning from colleagues around me, extra time with my husband (teacher but since I don’t want to hurt JKF: I am very proud of the work family perk), son, and dogs. We do anyone’s feelings, just know I’m I’ve done so far to increase the things like swim, go to parks, and always listening and learning from orchestra footprint in our state. We occasionally just sit and relax. I also the great music educators in have a long way to go, but with a always try to do one productive Alabama! little determination and teamwork, I teacher thing, like professional think we’ll get there one day! development or learning experience. Editor: Are there any embarrassing teaching moments Editor: What would your students Editor: Are you involved in other you’re willing to share? What are be surprised to find out about you? music-related activities in addition they? to your teaching position? If so, JKF: My students are often surprised please explain. JKF: When I taught general music, it that I know things about pop culture, was well known by the students that like popular movies, shows, video JKF: Many of my Saturdays are spent Mrs. Ford can’t remember the lyrics games, social trends, etc. Just playing at weddings, usually in to anything. I would often get caught because I’m an orchestra teacher quartets. It’s a fun, easy way to make getting things backward or making doesn’t mean I live under a rock. some extra cash while also fulfilling my chamber music itch. I am also an instructional coach with the Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra. I help coordinate rehearsals and string- related things with the students in the orchestra. Finally, I’m the Vice President of the Alabama Orchestra Association, which helps coordinate many of our state orchestra events and collaboration between string teachers in the state of Alabama. Editor: Lastly, what are your interests or hobbies not related to your teaching position? JKF: Unfortunately, being a music educator doesn’t lend itself to much time outside of the job, but I work on finding the best park in Birmingham for my two-year-old, as well as finding the best restaurants. ala breve 31

Choral Music Reviews Dr. William Powell Focus: Selected choral compositions with accessible and intermediate piano accompaniments that sound harder than they appear Children, Go Where I Send Thee an advanced junior high choir could Shenandoah is great for choirs that do (SSA & solo soprano with piano and sing it well, I believe that this setting is not already have this song in their percussion; opt. rapper and bass guitar; best suited for high school choirs and choral repertoire. Parr offers a very also available for SATB) above. It must be sung from memory, accessible three-part setting of his Traditional African-American Spiritual and it is well worth the investment of arrangement of Shenandoah. This is an arranged by Kevin Phillip Johnson time, resources, and effort. Be aware ideal voicing for beginner and Rap crafted by Ayana Davis that the full instrumental score intermediate choirs of mixed voices. Carl Fischer (including piano) is published The third voice works very well for CM9742 / $2.75 separately. The instrumental parts are boys’ changing voices in the mid-to- Duration: Approximately 4:05 very accessible to intermediate players, upper range. Low baritone singers especially since the notation is mostly might have a difficult time sustaining Released in 2022, this arrangement is ostinato except for the refrain and the the C# (at middle C). The flowing sure to invigorate choirs and audiences extensive rap segment. piano accompaniment requires a player alike. Dr. Kevin Phillip Johnson offers who will watch and follow without an impressive setting with his creative Shenandoah (Three-part mixed, piano; rushing or slowing down apart from the use of harmonies, rhythms, hand claps, also available for two-part) conductor. and a driving accompaniment to anchor arranged by Andrew Parr the repeated and forward-moving texts Text by Friedrich Rückert (adapted) A la Puerta del Cielo (Three-part of this well-known spiritual. As director Choristers Guild mixed, piano; also available for SSA and of the Spelman Glee Club, Johnson CGE435 / $2.25 two-part) evidences a firm understanding of Duration: Approximately 2:48 Traditional Spanish lullaby treble voices. The arrangement is from arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram his Soulful Singing Series, and it is best As part of American folksong Choristers Guild sung by choirs that know how to literature, this arrangement of CGE452 / $2.25 perform with grit and vigor. Although Duration: Approximately 3:10 This song is great for teaching phrasing, sustained singing, and staggered breathing. It is also great for singing in Spanish. Part three is comfortably written for mid-ranged baritone and tenor voices. The score includes a helpful pronunciation guide and a translation of the text. Intermediate pianists will enjoy playing the lyrical and expressive accompaniment. Choral Reviews William Powell Director of Choral Activities Auburn University 32 August/September 2022

David L. Walters Department of Music JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY » Friday, February 3, 2023 The JSU Marching Southerners were selected by the » Saturday, February 4, 2023 John Philip Sousa Foundation as the 2022 recipient » Friday, February 10, 2023 of the Sudler Trophy and the JSU Percussion » Saturday, February 11, 2023 Ensemble has been selected to perform at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) on November 10, 2022 in Indianapolis, IN. DEGREE PROGRAMS IN MUSIC Bachelor of Arts in Music ∙ Music Education with Instrumental or Vocal Concentration ∙ General Music with Instrumental or Vocal Concentration ∙ Performance with Instrumental, Jazz, Piano, or Voice Concentrations Master of Arts in Music ∙ Vocal Music Education ∙ Vocal General Music ∙ Instrumental Music Education ∙ Instrumental General Music Minors ∙ Jazz Studies ∙ Music ∙ Music Technology FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SCHOLARSHIPS, David L. Walters SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT THE LINK BELOW! Department of Music 201 Mason Hall Music 700 Pelham Road North Jacksonville, AL 36265 Phone: 256.782.5559 /JacksonvilleStateUniversity /JSUnews #JacksonvilleState /JacksonvilleStateUniversity ala breve 33

HOW TO BUILD YOUR JAZZ PROGRAM In this article, Dr. Andy Nevala, part of your school’s music program will history, and introduce more difficult Director of Jazz Studies at enable them even further to have success tunes that require rehearsing on the same Jacksonville State University, Chris in their future careers.  level as your concert bands.  Kozak, Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Alabama, and Dr. Dave But how do we build a program, Including guest artists on your Camwell, Director of Jazz Studies and with the resources you already have? Start concert will also help draw attention to Saxophone at Troy University, will each with your pep band. These are close to your program. Many of the universities weigh in on how to build a jazz program. the same instrumentation as a jazz with jazz programs, such as the We are part of a larger group of Jazz ensemble, and already have an outlet to University of Alabama, the University of Educators focused on improving jazz perform. Sneak in a few jazz charts that Alabama - Birmingham, Troy University, education in Alabama, a non-profit group have easy, open solo sections, such as Jacksonville State University, and other Alabama Jazz Collective. (yes, I’m saying it) Chameleon, or “Jungle members of the Alabama Jazz Collective Boogie”, which lets students explore are willing to bring groups to your school Dr. Andy Nevala, Director of Jazz soloing without having to think about the to perform with and for your students, at Studies at Jacksonville State “changes”. Then sneak in another tune virtually no cost to you. It’s what we do! University:  that might be a blues or an easy standard: Use us!  lots of Dave Wolpe arrangements are Many of you are wanting to written for younger groups and are Chris Kozak, Associate Professor of build or start a jazz program at your readily accessible. There are many Music and Electric/Double Bass, school, and have limited resources to do arrangements of Holiday songs for this Director of Jazz Studies at the so. One of the first things to start type of ensemble - have them play a few University of Alabama: thinking about is how you would present to close out your last band concert of the   the idea of creating a jazz program to fall!  your administration. What do you say Dr. Nevala hits on some great when your principal asks “Why do we Great, now that you have an points for starting a Jazz Program at your need to have a Jazz program?” ensemble that is starting to smell like a school. Informing your administration of jazz band, how do you improve on that? the importance of Jazz as a valid musical The reasons for having jazz as a Ask for a dedicated rehearsal time during art form can be challenging for many to part of your music program include, but the schedule. I know many schools that accept however it is a fact. It is truly an are not limited to: educating students on could only rehearse during “zero” hour original American art form that has had a the impact jazz has had on our culture or before school started. Once your tremendous effect on the development and cultures all over the world, allow an group has gained visibility by playing at of modern styles and genres of music. opportunity for students to find their band concerts, basketball games, and Many programs don’t have the resources own voice through participation in a jazz even having your own jazz concerts, you in funding, equipment, or even student ensemble or combo, help students can approach the administration and ask population. In these situations, you need develop critical thinking and listening for an hour during the school day for to make do with what you have, and like a skills, developing a better understanding your jazz group. It could get some of you main component of Jazz, you’ll have to of music theory, and improve their out of teaching something you don’t improvise! musicianship skills. For students already want to teach and would be a great          One point I’d like to address that seeking a career in music, having jazz as a benefit to your program. You could teach jazz theory, improvisation, and jazz 34 August/September 2022

hasn’t been covered is instrumentation Alabama Jazz Collective and how to overcome an ensemble that isn’t composed of what some might greatest assets and there is no better place Dr. Dave Camwell, Associate consider a “traditional Jazz band.” Many to develop this than playing and studying Professor of Music and Director of directors starting programs are often jazz music. Once they have the lead Jazz Studies, Troy University faced with what seems like “non- sheets and have listened to the music, it is traditional” instrumentations relating to time to play. Have them try to replicate One of the most important Jazz. Picture the instrumentation: 2 what they hear based on the music pieces of advice I was ever given was in clarinetists, a Tenor Saxophonist, an Alto provided. They can try to emulate the graduate school by Dr. Gene Aitken at Saxophonist, an Oboist, a Pianist, 2 arrangement but most importantly, have the University of Northern Colorado; he Guitarists, a Drum Set player, and a them listen to the melody and play it. told our jazz pedagogy class that strong Tubaist. Could this group play Jazz? Of Everyone in the band should do this. programs are mostly built by solid course! Part of the anxiety for band Rhythm section players too but they intrinsic motivators. Students want to be directors is not having a library of should also listen to what role their part of something that has real artistic material for their groups, as odd as the similar instruments are playing. Guitar value, worth, and meaning to them. They instrumentation can sometimes be but and Piano can have a dual function in want the feeling that the time that is put fear not. Lest we forget, the development melody and harmony at different times or into the ensemble/rehearsal/practice is of our modern Jazz Ensemble, Jazz together while the individual wind players truly worth it, resulting in artistic and Orchestra, and Jazz Band came from should focus on playing the melody. The practical rewards. Extrinsic motivators of improvisatory scenarios that DID NOT most important thing is to have them tours, socializing, trophies, and other HAVE SHEET MUSIC. Imagine that, play. enjoyable aspects of music programs are not using a sheet of music with EVERY certainly helpful, but the true mark of a NOTE written out. Crazy right? Not so. This is just the tip of the iceberg successful program is the buy-in from This is a great place to start. Jazz and we hope you’ll consider developing students who are truly interested in Standard lead sheets from a Real Book or or furthering the programs you already developing an appreciation and love of Jamey Aebersold (www.jazzbooks.com) have. We understand this can be jazz.  are available in the keys of all of those particularly daunting especially if the instruments and for around $50.00, you band director does not have much So how do we do that? Firstly, as could have as many as 30 tunes for your experience in Jazz but there are plenty of stated by my AJC colleagues, the students to play! If you know how some resources available. To echo Dr. Nevala, importance of choosing quality literature of our historically significant bands we are here to serve you and the music! of an appropriate level is of paramount began (I’m looking at you Count Basie Contact any one of us and ask if we can importance. There is no quicker way to Orchestra,) you can take the same help. I have yet to meet a Jazz Educator sink a rehearsal than to pick music that is approach, and in the process, help who doesn’t want to “pass the Jazz too hard; even if it’s your favorite piece students develop aspects of their torch!” and you think they could get it with musicianship without them even enough work, at the high school level, it knowing. Kind of like putting kale in a is often not worth the dampening of fruit smoothie…except it’s Jazz…and it’s not a smoothie. There are a few things to consider when taking this approach. Select only a few tunes for the students to work on. The Jazz Standard repertoire is quite large but a good place to start if you are unfamiliar with what tunes to pick would be the website: jazzstandards.com. It lists 1000 Jazz Standards that also have historical information and in most cases, details on each tune as it relates to form or harmony. Next, find as many historical versions of the tunes for your students to listen to as you can. HAVE YOUR STUDENTS LISTEN TO THE MUSIC. Probably one of the most important considerations is that our ears are our ala breve 35

morale that can occur if success remains Whether it’s a close double, or it’s a rewarding, enriching, meaningful elusive. I do think that occasional revised part, there is always a way to experience that above all is FUN! As a “stretch” pieces are good, but picking a include those that have interest and director, YOU are the most important stylistic variety of pieces that provide ability. Jazz combos are indeed a great conduit that brings this wonderful music different opportunities and methods for way to learn many aspects of jazz, and inTo your students’ world.  students to engage with jazz music are an advantage in providing sufficient cannot be overstated. It is also important solo opportunities to all members. Many Find us here: to not just play 3-4 pieces a semester! publications feature varied Even the most well-arranged and instrumentation, so embrace the Dr. Andy Nevala: [email protected] instructed music can become sheer musicians you currently have and provide Chris Kozak: [email protected] drudgery if over-rehearsed. Finding the them with tunes that will work for their Dr. Dave Camwell:[email protected] line between accomplishment, exact specifications! improvement, and exploring new works For more information on the Alabama that propel the ensemble to a higher level Finally, I would encourage jazz Jazz Collective: is always a constant and important goal. listening sessions; Spotify, youtube, and www.AlabamaJazzCollective.com Depending upon the number of apple music playlists are but some of the rehearsals you have, I would suggest a very easy ways to expose students to this time frame of approximately six weeks music. Without a strong idea of what the per set of charts, with an ideal semester music should sound like, it is quite including 2-3 performance opportunities.  difficult to achieve an authentic and genuine performance. I often liken it to I also agree with my colleagues learning a foreign language without ever that starting with smaller numbers, and hearing a native speaker! Transcription is including non-traditional instruments another wonderful tool that can be used should not be eschewed. Yes, there are to dig deeper into stylistic tendencies, as jazz purists at the professional level, but I well as provide some tools to begin feel strongly that we should be improvising with.  welcoming to all interested musicians. Jazz music should be a PEOPLE LOVE OUR FUNDRAISING PROGRAM SO MUCH BECAUSE... • Great for Consumers and Fundraisers • Brand Name • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee • Free Fundraising Kits • Gourmet Quality Products • Versatile & Flavorful • Health Benefits of Pecans LET US HANDLE YOUR ORGANIZATION’S CHARITABLE FUNDRAISER! Contact one of our experienced Fundraising experts to receive a FREE FUNDRAISING KIT. 1-800-523-3505 [email protected] P.O. Box 381 • Fort Deposit, AL 36032 • Priesters.com/Fundraising 36 August/September 2022

UA Bands AD 2

USA Music AD

Coupling Exercises to Cultivate Development Ibelieve in a daily routine. I believe certain exercises Remington First, Slur Second enhance my playing more efficiently than others. I believe my daily routine helps keep my skills fresh. I Placing the exercises in this order allowed us to focus on also get bored of doing it every day. I am sure my students establishing the correct distance AWAY from the Concert F. feel the same way because they have told me. During this This means our air, our lips, and consequently our buzz. By last semester, we set out to find ways to cover the same slowly expanding our buzz lower and lower, we can find the concepts on a daily basis, without doing exactly the same exact change for a great sounding low Concert B-flat, as it is exercises. This led us to multiple ways to combine two basic only a little more change than the low Concert B-natural. (and universal) brass exercises: a two-note lip slur and a Normally, students will have an established habit of how descending Remington exercise. One key point that we they move between Concert F and B-flat, often involving learned over the semester: changing between notes tends to letting go of the embouchure structure to just get the low be overdone in the low register and creates a world of Concert B-flat out. By expanding down by half-step, the problems for any notes that come after the low register. student can maintain a similar method of tone production Hopefully, by putting these exercises to the test, you and as they approach the “low open note.” One vital part of the your students can start to fine-tune the lower register and initial portion of this exercise is how to transition between overcome common pitfalls that this register can provide. notes. The buzz needs to change as the valve/slide is in motion. A motto we have taken on is “change, then undo.” As you can see, both of these exercises start on a Concert Moving from Concert F to the second-valve Concert E F. requires an ever-so-slight change in the buzz and therefore the aperture size. Most younger students fail to realize the need to “undo” that change as they move from the E back up to the F. The thought process we have adopted (while listening for our best, consistent sound on every note) is “F-change-E-undo-F.” Again, the “change” and “undo” occur during the valve motion. With smaller intervals, the ala breve 39

change may seem unimportant, but as we move to larger intervals, this change needs to be intentional and a defined distance. By making the students aware of the smaller change, it allows them to be conscious of making the change slightly more for each interval. Once the student has established how to move from The second indicator (the “pop”) is a sign that the student Concert F to the low B-flat, the exercise moves into the lip is not “undoing” the change that allowed them to get to the slur portion. The distance of this portion is always a low note successfully. The “pop” at the left edge of the descending Perfect Fifth, meaning the amount of change upper notes is caused by an aperture that is too wide and is required should also be the same, the only difference is the unable to become small enough to ensure a smooth starting note of the lip slur. By establishing the Concert F- transition. With either of these two indicators, a great Bb-F lip slur, we can move to the second valve/position for strategy to make the student aware of the change is to half- Concert E-A-E and focus on recreating the same “change valve the exercise and focus on the transition of the buzz. and undo” but just starting slightly lower in the register. We If the student is unable to produce a half-valve that can have found that this method has allowed the students to smoothly move around this register of the instrument it is have a more focused sound in the lower register, as they are typically because they are blowing “generic” air that has no not “just opening up” but rather “opening up the right exact information to tell the lips to buzz. In this case, amount.” buzzing and pitched air flow exercises can help remedy the student’s awareness. Remington Inside the Lip Slur The next two exercises both contain one expanding interval By placing the Remington concept inside of the lip slur, the and one consistently placed Perfect Fifth slur. These can student can reinforce not having a generic “low note work hand-in-hand with each other to develop fluid motion setting,” but rather a lower register that they can move in in and out of the low register. They are presented here in and out of freely. While this exercise does not go as low as the preferred sequence to study them, as the second other exercises, it serves as a building block for future requires greater control of the air stream. exercises. I have used this exercise in a previous article entitled “Rethinking Basic Lip Slurs’’ which appeared in the Lip Slur Inside the Remington Summer 2020 edition of Ala Breve. Again, the focus on the air/buzz change occurring during the valve/slide change This exercise places the first “valved” note immediately should ensure the student is changing the proper amount. after the Concert F, from there the lip slur will take place. The student should focus on how to achieve the change This exercise is unbalanced in its interval content. The from the open F to the second note (revisit the first Concert F-E change is only a half-step, but the E-low Bb exercise in the article if this is a problem) and then consider change is an augmented fourth, and then returns to the the second note to be the start of the lip slur portion of the starting not byr eversing the direction of those intervals. As the exercise progresses, these intervals shift to an initial interval of a tri-tone, with the half-step between the two bottom notes. The two biggest indicators of a problem with the students’ method of production in getting to the low B-flat are 1) a “fall into” the bottom note, and 2) an “pop” or “hard left edge” to the note after the low B-flat. With both of these, we are listening to a specific sound to be a sign of a technical deficiency. The first indicator (the “fall”) is marked by an unstable front and middle of the note. This should be addressed by using the previous exercise and finding an exact placement of the low B-flat. 40 August/September 2022

exercise. The distance of the Perfect Fifth should always isolated successfully before returning to the combined require the same amount of change, and this exercise exercise. ensures that the student is placing the starting note of the lip slur in the correct place. Initially, we have found it Overlapping helpful to break the exercise down into its two parts and connect them with a Caruso-style nasal breath during the This is my favorite way to combine these exercises as it half-note rests and hold our embouchure and mouthpiece forces the student to constantly be engaged in what change in place before moving on. is coming up and how they undo that change. As there are a lot of moving parts in this exercise, the As you can see, this exercise places the Remington student needs to find a few tips while practicing. The first progression overtop of the lip slur. As with the item would be to use the non-depressed valves to help aid “Remington Inside the Slur” exercise, the student must the lip slur by having a quick “half-valve squish” on the way control the initial descent through the valved notes and down. This will ensure the low note is not a generic setting. onto the low B-flat, but then must immediately continue The second tip is to compare the last Concert F of each downward to the next valved note. Unlike previous portion of the exercise to the first Concert F in the next combinations of these two exercises which contained only portion. This will tell the student if they are “undoing” two descending intervals and two ascending intervals, this things properly and returning to the same starting point for variation contains three descending and three ascending every valve/slide combination. intervals. Even though the same valve/slide combination is used after both “open” notes, the change required to Remington at the End of the Slur successfully navigate the registers is quite different. Since there are multiple moving parts in this exercise, feel free to use the Caruso-style breakdown and breathing plan on each set of two notes. This is the second in the pair of exercises meant to work on Hopefully, these examples can help spark some imagination developing a fluid low register. By placing the Remington at on how you can deviate from a traditional warm-up routine the end of the lip slur, the student can focus on a familiar while enabling yourself or your students to be more process (the slowly expanding interval change) but have the mindful of what is the focus and how we achieve great process start in a new place. The starting slur between results. Concert F and low B-flat should allow the student to feel stable in the process of finding the correct initial setting for Dr. Thomas Lukowicz is the the Remington portion. A few takeaways from previous Assistant Professor of Low exercises in the article that will be beneficial to transfer into Brass at the University of the low register Remington. First, ensure the airflow is North Alabama, Tuba-Artist forward into the low notes and does not “weaken” but Faculty at the Tennessee Valley instead gets wider to fill up the space between the wider Music Festival, and has held the aperture. Secondly, do not underestimate the “undo” factor Principal Tuba position of the back to the low B-flat. This will be vitally important to Canton Symphony Orchestra ensure a great ascending lip slur back to the starting and Chamber Orchestra of Concert F. Lastly, remember to compare the last note of New York since 2007. Additional performance appearances include the one portion with the starting note of the next portion. This Columbus Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony, Glimmerglass Opera will provide direct and easily observed feedback if the Orchestra, Louisville Orchestra, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, student is returning to the same starting place. If the two Pittsburgh Symphony Brass, the Naples Philharmonic, and the New Concert Fs differ in tone quality, pitch, or volume, break World Symphony. In 2001-2002, he was a member of the North down the exercise into manageable parts that can be American touring cast of Blast!. ala breve 41

AMEA Division Events2022 - 2023 Alabama Vocal Association Event Date Location Fall Workshop September 9 University of Montevallo January 19-21 AMEA April 12-14 BJCC All-State Show Choir Festival March 9-11 Spain Park High School, Birmingham All-State Chorus Festival BJCC Solo & Ensemble March 1 University of North Alabama District I April 5-6 Moody Music Building, Tuscaloosa District II April 14 Episcopal Church of the Ascension, Birmingham District III February 16 District IV February 27-28 Jacksonville State University District V First Baptist Church in Huntsville March 28 District VI March 16 Taylor Road Baptist Church, Montgom District VII Springhill Baptist Church, Mobile State Choral Performance Assessment March 1 University of North Alabama District I March 2 First Baptist Church, Decatur District I April 5-6 Moody Music Building, Tuscaloosa District II March 14-16 Canturbury UMC, Birmingham District III April 6 District IV April 17-18 Gadsden City High School District V Grissom High School March 28 District VI lor Road Baptist Church, Montgom April 4 District VII Springhill Baptist Church, Mobile All-State Chorus Auditions January 10-11 Online through Zoom Elementary/General Division August 27, 2022 East Alabama General Music Workshop Auburn October 14, 2022 October 15, 2022 Elementary Music Festival Metropolitan Church of God, Birmingham November 2-6, 2022 November 2-5, 2022 AMEA/AOSA/SHAKE Fall Workshop Eastmont Baptist Church January 19-21, 2023 NAfME Inservice Conference National Harbor, Maryland American Orff-Schulwerk National Professional Development Conference Kansas City, Missouri AMEA Professional Development Conference Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex Alabama Orchestra Association TBA All-State/All Region Orchestra Audition Deadline Strings, Harp, Piano TBA All-State/All Region Orchestra Audition Deadline Woodwind, Brass, Percussion January 7-8, 2023 All-Region Orchestras North/South January 19-21, 2023 AMEA Professional Development Conference BJCC February 9-12 2023 All-State Orchestra TBA April 22-23, 2023 Orchestra Music Performance Assessment TBA AMEA Collegiate Division October 23, 2022 Collegiate Summit The University of Alabama Moody Music Building January 19-21, 2023 AMEA Professional Development Conference Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex 42 August/September 2022

Alabama Bandmasters Association District Event Location Date Deadline Statewide January 19-21, 2023 1/7/2023 District 1 AMEA Conference Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex January 19-21, 2023 11/1/2022 15-Nov-21 11/15/2022 District 2 All-State Jazz Festival Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex 26-Apr-23 3/1/2023 All State Jazz Recording Due alaband.org April 27-29, 2023 3/1/2023 District 3 June 20-22, 2023 6/1/2023 District 4 All State Solo Festival Von Braun Center, Huntsville, AL 22-Aug-22 N/A January 28-29, 2022 12/16/2022 District 5 All State Festival Von Braun Center, Huntsville, AL February17-18, 2023 12/16/2022 District 6 February 28-March 2, 2023 2/7/2023 District 7 Summer Convention Perdido Beach Resort March 7-9, 2023 2/14/2023 District 8 1-Apr-23 3/11/2023 District Fall Meeting James Clemens HS 6-May-23 4/15/2023 15-May-23 N/A All State/ District HB Auditions Sparkman HS 21-Aug-22 N/A 23-Aug-22 N/A District Honor Band Grissom HS 1/28/2023 12/16/2022 2/10-11/23 2/3/2023 MPA #1 James Clemens HS February 28-March 3,2023 2/3/2023 17-Apr-23 3/24/2023 MPA #2 Hartselle HS 8-May-23 4/14/2023 TBA N/A Solo and Ensemble #1 Liberty MS 28-Jan-23 12/16/2022 Solo and Ensemble #2 Athens HS February 10-11, 2023 2/3/2023 March 7-9, 2023 2/13/2023 Spring Meeting TBA 6-May-23 4/14/2023 12-Sep-22 N/A District Fall Meeting Guntersville TBA January 28-2023 12/16/2022 February 24-25, 2023 2/4/2023 District Fall Meeting ZOOM March 13-16, 2023 1/13/2023 March 20-23, 2023 1/13/2023 All State Auditions Albertville HS 18-Apr-23 4/3/2023 6-May-23 4/3/2023 District Honor Band Albertville HS 15-May-23 N/A 23-Aug-22 N/A MPA Gadsden City HS Audiorium January 28-2023 12/16/2022 February 17-18, 2023 2/3/2023 Solo and Ensemble Arab HS March 8-10, 2023 2/15/2023 15-Apr-23 3/31/2023 Solo and Ensemble Weaver HS 20-Apr-23 4/6/2023 13-Aug-23 N/A District Fall Meeting TBA January 28-2023 12/16/2022 February 17-18, 2023 2/2/2023 All State Auditions Muscle Shoals HS February 28-March 2, 2023 2/7/2023 22-Apr-23 4/2/2023 District Honor Band Russellville HS 29-Aug-22 N/A January 28-2023 12/16/2022 MPA UNA March 7-10, 2023 2/3/2023 March 23-24, 2023 2/17/2023 Solo and Ensemble Hamilton HS 6-May-23 4/14/2023 29-Aug-22 N/A District Fall Meeting Oak Mountain HS 28-Jan-23 12/16/2022 March 7-9, 2023 2/7/2023 All State Auditions Hoover HS March 10-11, 2023 2/7/2023 10-Mar-23 N/A District Honor Band Chelsea HS 22-Apr-23 4/7/2023 6-May-23 4/28/2023 MPA #1 Vestavia High School 43 MPA #2 Thompson High School Solo and Ensemble #1 Thompson Middle School Solo and Ensemble #2 Bumpus MS District Spring Meeting Oak Mountain HS District Fall Meeting Zoom Call All State District Honor Band Audi- Brookwood High School District Honor Band University of Alabama MPA University of Alabama Solo and Ensemble Brookwood High School Solo and Ensemble Prattville Junior High District Fall Meeting Baumhower's Auburn, AL All State Auditions Wetumpka HS District Honor Band Auburn HS MPA Benjamin Russell HS Solo and Ensemble East Samford School District Fall Meeting Barton Academy All State Auditions Saraland HS MPA Baker HS District Honor Band Daphne High School Solo and Ensemble Spanish Fort MS District Fall Meeting Enterprise, AL All State Auditions Coppinville Junior High School MPA Enterprise Performing Arts Center District Honor Band Enterprise HS District Spring Meeting Enterprise HS Solo and Ensemble #1 Houston Academy Solo and Ensemble #2 Greenville HS ala breve

AMEA Industry/Institutional Membership 2022-23 BSC AMEA would like to express appreciation to the following partners who have joined AMEA Birmingham-Southern College in our efforts to promote music education in Alabama. Please support these industry/ institutional members who support you as music educators! Department of Music American Travel Consulting FACULTY P.O. Box 750, Albertville, AL 35950 Dr. Jeremy Grall, [email protected] Associate Professor of Music At ATC, student travel planning is our passion. Having traveled extensively throughout our careers, our team understands just how important travel is to a student’s well-rounded education. Dr. Jeff Kensmoe, [email protected] Travel provides students real world experiences not available from a textbook and offers learning Associate Professor of Music and opportunities on an enhanced level. From elementary school groups headed to Atlanta for a Director of Opera weekend trip to marching bands flying to California for the Rose Parade, our team is ready to help plan your perfect trip!” Dr. David Phy, [email protected] Assistant Professor of Music and Arts Music Shop, Inc. Director of Bands 3030 East Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36116 Dr. Lester C. Seigel, [email protected] Joseph Hugh Thomas Professor Your One Stop Complete Music Company! ... we are a full line music store headquartered in of Music Montgomery, AL with two additional locations in Dothan and Birmingham, AL. OPPORTUNITIES Performance Carts Symphonic Band Hilltop Singers 11212 AL Hwy 157, Moulton, AL 35650 Athletic Band Guitar Ensemble Jazz Band Southern Chorale Performance Carts is a manufacturer of high-end carts for speakers, mixers, keyboards, drum Concert Choir Opera Workshop sets, and other items used be marching ensembles in their performances. We also provide sound reinforcement consulting. DEGREES OFFERED Southern Performances Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a major or minor in music PO Box 6852, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Bachelor of Arts (BA) with Disciplinary Honors in Performance Southern Performances was founded by David and Dayna Brannan with the mission of offering Bachelor of Musical Arts (BMA) an all-around company to help any program or group perform with the highest quality equipment, apparel and instruction. With an extensive knowledge of the arts, they have combined forces to bsc.edu/music offer band and choir programs the best possible customer service for performing ensembles! August/September 2022 Troy University John M. Long School of Music, Troy, AL 36082 The students, faculty, and staff in the John M. Long School of Music are committed to musical excellence in the classroom and in the performance arena. Our ensembles and classes are filled with many of Troy University’s best and brightest students from across the country and from all majors on our campus. University of South Alabama LPAC 1072, 5751 USA Drive South, Mobile, AL 36688 The Department of Music at the University of South Alabama, through its innovative curriculum and exemplary faculty, offers educational and creative opportunities for musicians and music educators. Propelled by an increasing music student population, a newly created graduate degree program, and a highly active concert series featuring accomplished soloists and diverse ensembles, the department continually embraces new artistic experiences that balance the rich history of music with emerging music of the 21st century. Providing opportunities for lifelong learners within our community, the department is an important asset to the University of South Alabama and a valuable resource for the entire Gulf Coast region. 44

Master of Education in Music Class A Alternative Certification Available \"AT ASU, YOU'RE NOT JUST A STUDENT, YOU'RE FAMILY.\" \"IT CHANGED MY LIFE, LET IT CHANGE YOURS.\" Erskine Long '22 M.Ed Alt-A Alabama Find us on: Alabama State University State is an accredited University institutional member of NASM National Association of Schools of Music ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS [email protected] (334) 229-4341

FALL 2023 SATURDAY SCHOLARSHIP JANUARY 21 AUDITION 2023 DEADLINE: Marching Middle School High School Honor Band Honor Band Honor Choir Sept. 10, 2022 Feb. 2-4, 2023 Sept. 27, 2022 High School Honor Band Feb. 9-11. 2023 For more information and to register visit: auburn.edu/music Auburn University is an equal opportunity educational institution / employer.

The University of North Alabama Department of Music offers scholarships to qualified music majors and minors in all instrumental, vocal, and piano programs through auditions. Participants in University Ensembles may be eligible for a Performance Award, regardless of their academic major. Audition Dates: November 11, 2022 January 27, 2023 February 25, 2023 March 18, 2023 Contact us una.edu/music ● 256.765.4375 Degrees [email protected] ● @unamusic1 Bachelor of Music in Performance • Instrumental • Piano • Vocal Bachelor of Arts or Science in Music • Instrumental • Vocal / Choral Bachelor of Science in Education • Choral Music, P-12 • Instrumental Music, P-12 Minor • Music Certificates • Musical Theatre • Percussion Specialist

Montgomery Dothan Birmingham 3030 East Blvd 1001 Commons Dr #2 4647-O Hwy 280S 334.271.2787 334.793.1284 205.995.8376 800-341-2787 ArtsMusicShop.com