Florida Music Director - December 2024

and

Supporting the Next Generation of Musicians

PRELUDE TO 2025 FMEA Professional Learning Conference

PLUS:

FMEA,FEMEA&FVA Candidates

FMEA Crossover Festivals 2025

President’s Message

‘The Season’

Tisthe season!” This has always been my response when asked what I have going on in the month of December. As music educators, we typically balance a number of rehearsals, performances, special events, parties, and travels during December in both our personal and professional lives. So, after listing my many upcoming activities for the person who got more than they bargained for in my response, I add on that cheerful phrase (with perhaps just a touch of sarcasm)!

Truth be told, when is it not “the season?” When I think over the calendar for the entire year, it’s always busy. We move seamlessly from one season full of events to the next equally busy season. And so it goes. I think one of the important lessons the pandemic taught many of us was to reevaluate our work-life balance, to set some healthy boundaries, and to find time to focus on our own wellness in the midst of our event-driven profession.

We have just recently come to the conclusion of another polarizing and divisive political campaign season. Each election cycle seems to be increasingly full of bitter division, and this one was certainly no different. As educators in a nation with compulsory education, our professional futures are inextricably linked to the winds of political change. As is the case anytime there is a significant shift in political party control in Washington and/or Tallahassee, it is completely normal to experience feelings of anticipation, uncertainty, and even anxiety as we await personnel and policy announcements that will indicate what is on the horizon for us in the field of education. But our personal and corporate mission as music educators to improve the lives of all children through meaningful, positive interaction with the power and beauty of music remains unchanged year after year, regardless of the political landscape.

Each year, I return from Thanksgiving and look at the busy calendar in front of me for the three-week sprint to the winter break, followed by welcoming the new year

Jason P. Locker President Florida Music Education Association

with the FMEA Professional Learning Conference. While that is a lot of activity packed into just over a month, I find it is the perfect sequence of events to propel me into the second semester, reinvigorated to make a positive impact. Though December is busy, I get to spend time with students and colleagues performing some of my favorite melodies. When I reach the finish line, and the winter break begins, I disconnect completely to rest and enjoy meaningful time with my family and friends. And as I come back to a new year, I am rejuvenated by spending time celebrating my calling as a music educator with colleagues engaged in professional learning. Friends, whatever this time of year means for you physically, mentally, and emotionally is valid. If it is a joyous time, lean into that and soak it all in. If this season is not a positive one for you, lean on your family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors rather than experiencing it in isolation. As we arrive in 2025, I look forward to welcoming you back to Tampa for a time of refreshment. We have an outstanding conference planned for you and your students! You don’t want to miss performances by Voctave, keynote addresses by Robyn Hilger (ACDA executive director) and Deb Confredo (NAfME national president), our FMEA Awards Program, and the myriad of interest sessions, performances, and exhibits! For our students, we have incredible all-state conductors, the Student Leadership Workshop on Wednesday with Susan Smith and Robyn Hilger, and fantastic Student Conference and Tri-M Experiences! This is also an election year for FMEA and several component associations, so please check out all of the candidate bios and make sure you cast your vote by logging into your account on the FMEA website.

I wish you all the best in your musical endeavors this December, and I can’t wait to welcome you to Tampa for the 2025 FMEA Professional Learning Conference! ‘Tis the season!

Jason P. Locker, President Florida Music Education Association

Executive Director Florida Music Education Association

Kathleen D. Sanz, PhD Hinckley Center for Fine Arts Education 402 Office Plaza Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 878-6844 or (800) 301-3632 (kdsanz@fmea.org)

Editor-in-Chief

Kelly Miller, DMA University of Central Florida 12488 Centaurus Blvd. Orlando, FL 32816-8009 (407) 823-4545 (kelly.miller@ucf.edu)

Editorial Committee Terice Allen (850) 245-8700, Tallahassee (tallen1962@hotmail.com)

Judy Arthur, PhD Florida State University, KMU 222 (850) 644-3005 (jrarthur@fsu.edu)

William Bauer, PhD University of Florida, Gainesville (352) 273-3182; (wbauer@ufl.edu)

Alice-Ann Darrow, PhD College of Music, FSU, Tallahassee (850) 645-1438; (aadarrow@fsu.edu)

Jeanne Reynolds (jeannewrey@gmail.com)

John K. Southall, PhD Indian River State College, Fort Pierce (772) 462-7810; (johnsouthall@fmea.org)

Advertising Sales Valeria Anderson (val@fmea.org) 402 Office Plaza Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 878-6844

Official FMEA and FMD Photographers

Bob O’Lary Amanda Crawford

Art Director & Production Manager

Lori Danello Roberts LDR Design Inc. (lori@flmusiced.org)

(800) 301-3632

Advocacy Report

Jeanne W. Reynolds Chairperson, Advocacy Committee

What I Learned By Volunteering During Election Season

s I write this, the November 2024 election has not yet happened. No results, no post-election anxiety, depression, or elation. Doesn’t matter. The lessons I learned from knocking on doors and getting out the vote are invaluable, universal, and directly related to our advocacy work. And these lessons may be more useful after the election.

Visit, Vigilance, Vote

Throughout the fall, I based several articles around the words vote, visit, and vigilance. After talking with citizens during the election season, it became clear that those words were out of order. It should be visit, vigilance, and vote. Said a different way—listen, learn, then act.

Visit – Listen More – Talk Less

In advocacy terms, we often use the word “visit” to reference official legislative visits. Turns out casual “visits” or conversations we have with friends, neighbors, colleagues, and decision makers are more important. Political experts tell us that one-onone conversations, while admittedly are inefficient, can be more

effective and impactful than multimillion-dollar advertisements. For Get Out The Vote (GOTV) events, volunteers are given scripts and talking points. We also provide these types of resources when we make FMEA and NAfME “official” visits with legislators. Yet I discovered we are more effective if we listen more and talk less. Be respectful. Ask questions. Try to understand. Don’t assume you know someone else’s motivation. Gently and respectfully correct inaccurate information when needed and adjust your “script” so it resonates with your conversation partner.

This is also true when we talk with decision makers whether they are principals, guidance counselors, school board members, or state legislators. Ask about their past music experiences and the importance of music education, even if you don’t like the answer. If someone had a bad experience with music education, all the talking points in the world will not change their views. If you listen respectfully, you will be able to develop a more nuanced and effective advocacy strategy that may or may not include that decision maker. Likewise, after an election, it is critically important to listen. Our information structures are not built for active listening and finding common ground. (Think social media.) This will be up to us. One conversation at a time.

Vigilance – Focus on Fundamentals –Teach

Could you imagine putting a major concert event on your calendar two years in the future and not teaching fundamentals or the literature until a few days before the event? (This is one of my recurring nightmares!) We know how important it is to build on fundamentals. Music education is all about distributed practice over time. In other words, you can’t cram the night before a concert. I had a college roommate who always tried to cram the night before ear training exams. You can

guess how that went. And yet, in some ways, we do this with voters every two or four years.

We fail to educate our friends and neighbors on basic issues in our community and then try to cram all the information into a few weeks. Some people say, “I really don’t follow politics.” Doesn’t matter if you follow politics—everyone is a citizen and is impacted by voting. One of my takeaways from this election season is that we all need to be fully engaged between election cycles. Just like music education, advocacy requires distributed practice over time

Some Florida communities do this well on the local level. They don’t wait for crises, or even elections. They nurture relationships with all local decision makers every day. This is not happening in enough places, though. And this does not happen consistently at the state level. After this election I will be listening (and talking less) to all of you to see how we can make sure our state legislators are all well versed on music education advocacy.

Vote – Act

FMEA Professional Learning Conference Advocacy To-Do List

✔ Visit the Advocacy Information Booth on the second floor of the Tampa Convention Center. We plan to listen more and talk less so we can gather your input, hear about your needs, and arm you with the advocacy fundamentals you need.

PLAN TO ATTEND THESE TWO SESSIONS: ✔ Advocacy for My Program Begins with ME. Thursday, January 9, 1:45pm, TCC, Room 111 ✔ Advocacy and Looking Ahead at the 2025 Legislative Session Friday, January 10, 11:45am, TCC, Room 101

There are several other advocacy related sessions in the program. Check them all out!

When I knocked on doors to get the vote out, many times I was knocking on doors of people who were believed to be “low pro pensity” or “low information” voters. Some of these voters were justifiably angry about being contacted the last couple of weeks of a campaign. Some said they were not going to vote. Why should they? If candidates skipped over the important steps of listening and learning and then communicating and executing a plan based on their constituents’ feedback, why should those candidates earn a person’s vote?

Similarly, think about how we approach decision makers when a music program is to be cut. Is this the first time we are connecting with these decision makers? Did we do all we could to build a relationship with these decision makers before this issue came up? Have we listened to their point of view? Have they had ample opportunity to hear our point of view? If not, we should not expect to get their support.

Hope for the Future

Despite the challenges throughout this election season, I saw so many reasons for hope. Some candidates were “listening more and talking less.” As I knocked on doors, many people said they had met the candidates personally. More citizens were actively engaged in volunteering than I have ever seen in the past.

In this post-election season, it is most important to stay engaged. Let’s keep this momentum going. For music educators, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. Our conference is right around the corner. Let’s put what we have learned into action!

Jeanne W. Reynolds

Important Update

FMEA to Hold Two Elections for President-Elect for 2023-2025 and 2025-2027 Terms

There will be two FMEA president-elect elections prior to and during the 2025 Florida Music Education Association Professional Learning Conference. The need for two elections was created when then President-Elect Scott Evans unexpectedly resigned. The Board of Directors appointed Harry “Skip” Pardee to serve the current term as outlined in the FMEA Bylaws, Article V Governance. Section 4 (C):

The Executive Committee shall have the authority to appoint officers when vacancies occur, to be confirmed by the Board of Directors. C. In the event that the President-Elect cannot fulfill their duties, or they have assumed the duties of the President, a new President-Elect shall be appointed by the Executive Committee. The President-Elect so appointed shall serve until the next Annual Professional Development Conference, at which time an election shall be held to fill the vacancy.

To complete the 2023-2025 term of office, the nominee from the FMEA Board of Directors is Harry “Skip” Pardee .

In the 2025-2027 election, the nominees from the FMEA Board of Directors are Bernie Hendricks and Rosemary Pilonero.

12 & 13

Elections for these terms of office are now open and will conclude on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 12 noon.

• Incredible Scholarships

• Mississippi’s FIRST All-Steinway School

• Bachelor degrees in Music Education, Worship Leadership, Worship Technology, Music Therapy, Performance and more!

• FULLY ONLINE Doctor of Arts in Music, Master of Music Education, and Master of Music in Worship Studies

• Top 10 Most Affordable Online Music Degrees according to Online U!

Friday, November 15

Friday, January 17 Friday, March 7

To reserve an audition day or request a time that works better for you, please email music@wmcarey.edu or call 601-318-6175.

• NO Out-of-state tuition!

Carey Honor Band January 30 – February 1 Carey Jazz Festival March 21 Carey Honor Choir April 10-12 The Winters School of Music invites you to be a part of the William

FMEA Special Election 2023-2025

FMEA PRESIDENT-ELECT CANDIDATE

Harry “Skip” Pardee

Harry “Skip” Pardee serves as district coordinator of fine arts for the Collier County Public Schools (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades City, and Immokalee, Florida), where he oversees music, visual art, theater, and dance, grades K-12. Mr. Pardee provides direction on Florida Standards through curriculum and professional development for visual and performing arts teachers, provides guidance for facilities and equipment standards, and liaises for all arts organizations and their involvement with the public schools. Mr. Pardee is a graduate of the New England Conservatory Preparatory School (trumpet), received the BME and MME degrees from the University of Florida School of Music, and is a doctoral candidate at Florida Gulf Coast University, with a research focus on teacher evaluation in the arts. Mr. Pardee currently serves on the FMEA Executive Committee as president-elect. He has served as president of the Florida Music Supervision Association and on the FMEA Board of Directors as member-at-large. Mr. Pardee also directs the marketing, branding, and communications initiative with FMEA. In addition to his duties with the Collier County Public Schools, Mr. Pardee has served as an adjunct professor in the Music Education Department at the Bower School of Music and the College of Education at Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida. Mr. Pardee has recently been listed as a community leader in arts education in Marquis Who’s Who in America. He is an active freelance trumpet player throughout Southwest Florida and serves the music ministry at North Naples United Methodist Church. Mr. Pardee resides in Naples, Florida, with his wife, Lauren (a music educator), and their three children, Quinn, Vivienne, and Braxson.

Vision

The Florida Music Education Association’s mission to promote quality, comprehensive music education in all Florida schools is inextricably tied to leadership, advocacy, and the visibility of music educators in the field. A robust arts education for students does not just “happen” without dedicated, passionate music educators, combined with school and district leaders demanding it so. With one of the country’s largest music education association memberships, FMEA must continue efforts to lead the way toward a healthy arts education for all students. As a member of the Executive Committee, I promise to lead the organization with three priorities: (1) keep students the first priority in all decision-making in our association; (2) communicate our mission and vision for FMEA outward to all stakeholders using modern approaches to marketing, branding, and social media to enhance advocacy efforts in Florida and across the nation; and (3) continue to foster financial wellness and sustainability for our association, to ensure our solvency into the future. Music educators should celebrate successes loudly and proudly, embrace every opportunity to shape young lives with music-making, and find new ways to innovate and inspire in the classroom. The arts are the “connective tissue” of society, and music education is more essential now than ever. With all this in mind, our organization must do all it can to champion the noble work of music educators in our state.

JessJessica Gronberg

Gronberg has the privilege of serving as the music teacher at Hawkes Bluff Elementary School in Davie, Florida. She is starting her 22nd year of teaching, her sixth year in elementary music. In addition to teaching general music, Ms. Gronberg also conducts two after-school auditioned choruses and a percussion ensemble, and directs a musical theatre club, all of which are active in the community. Outside of school, Ms. Gronberg teaches musical theatre classes at Dancers Gallery, a local dance studio. She previously taught secondary music—both band and chorus at The Sagemont School, Pembroke Pines Charter High School, West Miami Middle School, as well as L. A. Ainger Middle School. A graduate of Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa (2003), she graduated with a BM degree in music education and voice performance with an emphasis on flute, studying with Dr. Maria DiPalma and Dr. Robert L. Larsen.

Ms. Gronberg is the FEMEA District 1 chairperson and serves on the executive boards for both Broward County Elementary Music Teachers Association and the Broward Music Educators Association. Ms. Gronberg is also an active guest conductor, clinician, performer, private instructor, and adjudicator.

Ms. Gronberg has been fortunate to have had several grant projects awarded over the last several years. These projects have allowed for the purchase of additional Orff instruments and mallets for the classroom, a classroom set of ukuleles as well as Makey Makeys, and has allowed for various creative projects such as the designing and constructing of musical instruments with PVC pipe, a musical glow party, and the creation of Hawkes Bluff’s now annual Night of the Arts.

Ms. Gronberg was most recently selected the 2022-23 Hawkes Bluff Teacher of the Year and is humbled to have been named a quarterfinalist for the GRAMMY® Music Educator Award in both 2023 and 2024 and a 2025 legacy applicant.

Vision

As music educators, we are motivators, nurturers, providers, and enthusiasts! We are the people that make children smile and excited about school! We create life-changing experiences both big and small! Positive waves of change allow for us as an organization to move forward, to find new ways to give back to our community, to each other.

My vision for the Florida Elementary Music Educators Association is to focus on developing community through a focus on connection and belonging. We will work in the best interests of our teachers by developing committees and programs that assist all teachers with curriculum, professional development, mentorship, classroom management or advocacy, and more. FEMEA will seek to understand the differences and similarities that we all face within our programs throughout the state and how we can work together to aid one another. FEMEA will serve its members so they don’t feel alone in this musical journey, but that they have found their people and are a part of something truly special. A network, a resource, a community of amazing music professionals!

ShannonStem is the elementary music teacher and musical theater director at University Academy in Panama City, Florida. A product of music education in the state of Florida, upon graduating from Troy University, Shannon returned to her hometown to educate the next generation of musicians.

Shannon Stem

Mrs. Stem has served the elementary music teachers in the state of Florida by serving as the District 6 chairperson for the Florida Elementary Music Educators Association since 2020. In addition, she serves as an adjudicator for FEMEA, has consistently had articles published in Florida Music Director as well as on the FEMEA Blog, serves as a mentor teacher for new music teachers, serves as chairperson for the Bay District Elementary Music Festival, and is the secretary of the Bay District Elementary Music Council.

Mrs. Stem has been recognized by the Florida Music Education Association as an Emerging Leader, has presented at many state and regional music and leadership conferences, has served on the revision committee for the Florida Teacher Certification Exam in Music, and was named Teacher of the Year at Hutchison Beach Elementary School in 2016-17, being a district Top 5 finalist for the award. In 2022 and 2024, Shannon was named a quarterfinalist for the GRAMMY® Music Educator Award. Most recently, it was announced that Shannon Stem is a semifinalist for the 2025 GRAMMY Music Educator Award.

Vision

As a young child, I absolutely loved school, but what I remember and look back on with the fondest of memories are the times that I spent in the music room with my music teacher, Mrs. Thompson. These memories, my own personal experiences, have helped shape my music education philosophy. I believe that every student should receive a quality music education. They should receive instruction in music spanning multiple cultures and genres, and should be afforded the ability to express themselves through singing, movement, and instrument playing. While this does not cover every aspect of elementary music education, imagine a world where this was occurring in every elementary school in our great state!

My vision for the Florida Elementary Music Educators Association is very similar to my education philosophy. The experiences that I had shaped that vision, and I would love to see more teachers and students involved in the regional and state level experiences available to our student populations. These events are the springboard of advocacy for elementary music education, and through that advocacy I would love to see the schools that do not have music programs in them or do not have strong support for the music programs in them to be able to thrive musically. This also requires networking with other music teachers and supervisors, which is one incredible benefit of our elementary component organization. While there have been great opportunities for networking and collaboration with our organization in the past, I am so excited about the direction in which our organization is headed in supporting student and member engagement, and I feel like this is an incredible step toward every student in our elementary schools receiving a quality music education.

It would be an honor to serve the music educators in this state once more, to further the cause of comprehensive elementary music education for all.

FVA PRESIDENT-ELECT

Jeffry Bogue

A Florida Native, Jeff Bogue graduated with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in choral music education from the College of Music at Florida State University. Mr. Bogue is in his 19th year teaching chorus at Newsome High School in Lithia, Florida.

Mr. Bogue is also in his third year serving as the choral director at Palma Ceia Methodist Church in Tampa, Florida.

Mr. Bogue has been honored to be a guest clinician for honor choirs in Pasco, Clay, Okaloosa, and Manatee counties and has served as a boardapproved Florida Vocal Association adjudicator in many outstanding districts throughout the state. Jeff has also served as the FVA District 7 chairperson, coordinator of the All-State TTBB Chorus, and as a director with Lumina Youth Choirs.

As a student musician growing up in music programs in the state of Florida, Mr. Bogue was inspired and enriched by the incredible experiences provided by the Florida Vocal Association. These growth opportunities continue to inspire him as an educator. It is Mr. Bogue’s belief that the influence and opportunities provided by FVA are vital to the students and teachers of Florida. If given the honor of serving as FVA president, it would be his great honor to serve the organization and continue to work diligently to be sure the organization exists to serve the musical needs of all of the students and teachers of the state. He would also love to see the organization continue to support and provide resources for new teachers.

Tabitha Peck

Tabitha Peck is the director of choral activities at Leon High School, where she has been teaching for 23 years. She holds a BME and MME in choral music education from the Florida State University College of Music where she studied voice under Janice Harsanyi (undergraduate) and Roy Delp (graduate).

Mrs. Peck’s ensembles have performed at the Florida ACDA Conference, the FLACDA President’s Concert, the FMEA President’s Concert, and the Southern Region ACDA Conference. Her choirs have also received Choir of Distinction titles at the FVA state music performance assessment. She has presented sessions at the FMEA Professional Learning Conference on the topics of music theory and a cappella music. Each summer, Mrs. Peck produces and music directs the Leon Summer Musical and is active in Leon’s Thespians, selecting and assisting with musical numbers, which are frequently chosen Critic’s Choice and Best in Show at the district and state levels.

Mrs. Peck founded the national award-winning pop a cappella group The Mane Event, as well as the Theatre Tech program. She manages the Leon Performing Arts Theatre, which oversees approximately 120 events in LPAT each season.

Students from Mrs. Peck’s programs have consistently gone on to place in collegiate voice, music education, music therapy, musical theatre, and technical theatre programs. Former students have performed on Broadway, Broadway National Tours, and in opera houses throughout the United States and Europe.

Mrs. Peck is active in leadership with FMEA, FVA, and ACDA, along with membership in USITT and NAfME. She is FVA District 3 treasurer, a past District 3 chairperson, and a member of the ACDA Executive Board as state treasurer and webmaster.

Tabitha has two beautiful daughters with her husband, Tim.

Amber Turcott

mber Turcott is in her 21st year as the choral and musical theatre director at Tarpon Springs Middle School, where her ensembles have consistently earned superior ratings at district music performance assessments, solo/ensemble assessments, and various school music festivals throughout Florida and Georgia.

Ms. Turcott serves as a teacher mentor and has held leadership positions in both FVA (district chair and treasurer) and the Pinellas County Music Educators Association, where she recently served as president.

Ms. Turcott earned graduate degrees in both vocal music performance and choral music education from the University of South Florida. As a Florida Vocal Association board-approved adjudicator, Ms. Turcott adjudicates solo/ensemble and choral music performance assessments throughout the state. In 2016, Ms. Turcott was honored by NAfME as a quarterfinalist in the GRAMMY Music Educator of the Year Award.

Anthony Zoeller, DMA

Dr. Anthony Zoeller is entering his 13th year as chorus director at Forest Glen Middle School in Broward County. Previously, he pursued a career in opera and earned a doctorate in voice performance, but he has found his greatest professional joy in teaching community singing to young people.

Anthony has served FVA as an adjudicator and District 15 chairperson. He has also been a guest clinician for middle school honor choirs and festivals around the state. He was the founding director of the Coral Springs Children’s Choir, and he maintains an active performing career in South Florida. Most importantly, he has introduced a couple thousand beautiful young people to the joy of singing with others.

BernieBernard (Bernie) Hendricks, Jr.

Hendricks has served as band director at Ocoee High School since the school opened in 2005. Prior to that, he served as band director at Robinswood Middle School in Orlando for eight years. Mr. Hendricks is a 1997 graduate of Florida A & M University, where he served as university band president and percussion section leader of the Marching 100. As an active member of the Florida Bandmasters Association, he has served as district secretary and treasurer as well as FBA president. Locally, Mr. Hendricks served on the Orange County fine arts curriculum and leadership teams and the All-County Concert and Jazz Band committees. Mr. Hendricks has served the Florida Music Education Association as chairman of the Multicultural Network and member of the State Executive Board, Advocacy Committee, and Awards Committee.

Mr. Hendricks received the honor of Teacher of the Year in 2000 at Robinswood Middle School as well as in 2007 and 2017 at Ocoee High School. In 2017, he was a finalist for Orange County Teacher of the Year. He was also recognized by the School Band & Orchestra Magazine as the Florida representative for their “50 Most Influential Directors” issue. He is a recipient of the Sousa Foundations Legion of Honor and most recently noted as a semi-finalist for the GRAMMY Music Educator Award.

Mr. Hendricks is an active adjudicator and clinician throughout the state of Florida and has presented a variety of professional development sessions at our state conference as well as in local schools and districts. He also serves the Orlando community as band leader and Life Group leader at Orlando World Outreach Church. Bernie and his wife, Sha, who is also a music educator turned college and career specialist, reside in Ocoee and are the proud parents of three wonderful young people.

Vision

I am a proud product of FMEA and FBA, specifically the band programs in Tallahassee. Moving to Tallahassee when I was in fifth grade and being introduced to Orff instruments in Mrs. Rivers’ music class at W. T. Moore Elementary School gave me a very solid foundation to music and the joys of being a part of a music program. Then on to Cobb Middle School and the band program of Bill Miller and Lincoln High School under Bob Hansbrough, and I lived down the street from Byron and Bobbie Smith (Lincoln HS choral directors and just two incredibly awesome human beings) … the music education just kept coming! And finally a college education at FAMU under the guidance of Dr. William P. Foster, Dr. Julian White, and Dr. Shaylor James. By the time I graduated, music education was just part of who I was and who I am to this day. I mention these things because over my 28-year teaching career, I’ve learned that probably the most valuable thing I’ve acquired are the relationships that are built and forged through music education.

The Mission of FMEA states “Promoting quality, comprehensive music education in all Florida schools.” Several years ago that mission statement stated “Promoting quality, comprehensive music education for all Florida students.” Although a few words have changed, two things that have remained are QUALITY and ALL! If granted the opportunity to serve in this capacity, I’ll continue to move forward the mission of ensuring that ALL students, regardless of who they are, where they live, what they look like, have access to the same thing I had access to when I was a student in these very Florida schools.

A reinvigorated investment in the “Next Generation” of music educators will be on the forefront as well. If we fail to invest in our future, we will cease to exist. The “ALL” in the FMEA mission statement also pertains to ALL music educators, which brings us back to building positive relationships among members. Yes, we have a fabulous annual conference that brings thousands of music advocates to a single location for a short period of time. However, we must continue to develop opportunities to reach even more music educators through our digital and social media platforms as well as future innovative and creative avenues to include ALL.

It is truly an honor to be considered to serve this organization in this capacity, and I look forward to continuing to move the mission of FMEA forward for the next generation of music educators and music students.

Rosemary Pilonero

Rosemary Pilonero is in her 31st year of teaching music and 11th year at The Villages Elementary of Lady Lake in Lake County, Florida. She previously taught music for eight years in Sumter County, Florida. Before moving to Florida, she taught music for 12 years in Ramsey, New Jersey, where her job included a variety of roles: fifth grade beginning band director, elementary general music teacher, middle school chorus accompanist, and assistant director of the high school marching band. She has earned two music education degrees: a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and a master’s degree from Montclair State University in New Jersey. In 2009 and 2018, she was selected Teacher of the Year at her schools. Mrs. Pilonero has completed her Orff Certification and two Orff Master Classes. She is a past treasurer of the Central Florida Orff Chapter (CFOC) and current director of the CFOC/Orange County Public Schools Orff Levels Course.

Rosemary has been a clinician for all-county Orff ensembles in Orange, Seminole, Pinellas, and Polk counties and a workshop clinician in Pinellas and Polk counties as well as for several Orff chapters. In 2022, she conducted the Florida Elementary Music Educators Association (FEMEA) Central Regional Orff Ensemble. She served as a regional representative on the American Orff-Schulwerk Association (AOSA) National Board of Trustees and is a national conference chair of the 2024 AOSA Conference in Des Moines, Iowa. An FEMEA past president, Rosemary continues to serve the Florida Music Education Association (FMEA) as coordinator of the All-State Elementary Orff Ensemble and elementary clinics chair of the Conference Planning Committee. In 2021, she was awarded FMEA Elementary Music Educator of the Year.

Rosemary lives in Wildwood with her husband, Mark, and their dogs, Bella and Dolce.

Vision

I moved from New Jersey to Florida in 2006 and attended my first FMEA conference in January 2007. I only knew a couple of music teachers, and I had never been to Tampa. I remember walking into the Tampa Convention Center in complete awe! The amount of people, the excitement in the air, the whole ballroom of teachers singing the national anthem, the all-state concerts, the awesome exhibit hall, the amazing sessions … I was overwhelmed in the very best of ways! I attended my FEMEA district’s meeting, and people applauded because they had never had a teacher from Sumter County attend before! After about 18 years, Sumter County had just reinstated music in their four elementary schools, and I was given red carpet treatment! I came home from Tampa with wonderful ideas, an excitement for my own classroom full of students, and a sense of belonging with a network of colleagues, many of whom went on to become great friends.

THIS is the power of FMEA, and THIS is why FMEA is so important. No matter where you are in your music education journey, FMEA brings us TOGETHER. We are often the only people who teach music in our individual schools. I sometimes envy the classroom teachers who have a team of colleagues right next door to talk to and collaborate with while we are each a sort of island at our schools. We have this powerful association filled with wonderful colleagues to lean on and learn from, and we must continue to be there for each other. In this time of teacher shortages and tough times of being a teacher, it is perhaps more important than ever that we listen to each other and help lift each other up.

I often hear that the key to classroom management is relationships, and I feel that is also true of our profession—the key to surviving and thriving in music education is RELATIONSHIPS. Relationships with our students, their families, our campus colleagues, our administrators, and our music colleagues are all so vitally important. This is my vision for FMEA, to build new relationships, strengthen current relationships, and make new connections so we can help ALL music educators not only survive, but THRIVE. My school’s motto is TOGETHER WE CAN, and I see FMEA as TOGETHER WE WILL because we need each other now more than ever and we truly are BETTER TOGETHER. FMEA has done so much for me, and I would be honored to give back through servant leadership as FMEA president.

and

Applications Auditions

Supporting the Next Generation of Musicians

Nby Sandy P. Hinkley, PhD

Now more than ever, challenges exist to move into higher education, especially in the performing arts field. Relatedly, the collegiate application process can be stressful and overwhelming for students and parents alike. While some students have private instructors to aid in this journey, many do not and will look elsewhere for guidance. It takes a village, and you, the music educator, are an important part of their support system. Although each of us has been through this process and understand its challenges, everyone’s experience is unique. Thus, the purpose of this article is to broaden awareness about the journey into higher education—ideally, serving as an additional resource for you and your students.

Exploring Institutions and Degrees

Institutions fundamentally differ in many ways, one of which is funding. This is an important variable because it directly affects cost. Public universities are primarily funded by state dollars, while private universities receive monies from private donors and alumni. Tuition at private

universities is typically higher, although both public and private colleges may offer a wide variety of scholarships. Community colleges operate from state funding, but have fewer scholarships available; conversely, tuition is almost always more affordable at these institutions.

Institutions also differ in availability of degrees and class size. Public and private universities offer four-year bachelor’s degrees and usually have larger classes, especially at state colleges. Community colleges have smaller class sizes and mostly offer two-year associate degrees; fundamental courses (e.g., music theory) can typically be taken at community colleges, which are then transferable to public or private universities. The size of an institution is an important and often overlooked consideration for students, as it is directly related to their daily learning and social environment.

When it comes to specific degrees, students will need to do their research, as not all degrees are offered at every institution. Bachelor’s degrees in music performance

continued on page 16

Applications Auditions and

continued from page 14

and music education are the most common, with some universities offering programs in music therapy, music composition, jazz studies, and music theater (while popular, degrees in commercial music are the least prevalent). Students who begin their musical journey at a community college should be aware that while all courses may “transfer” to a university, not all credits may “apply” to a particular music degree—the semantics of this can be confusing, so this is an important conversation to be had with a qualified academic advisor at the second institution.

Navigating the Application and Audition Process

The application process for most high school students typically begins in the fall of senior year. It is important to start this process early, and students are encouraged to do their research before submitting applications. Ideally, students should tour each campus and community to get a feel of what life is like. Students are also encouraged to reach out to music faculty to arrange a private lesson, observe an ensemble rehearsal, and/or sit in on a class. Other ways to visit campuses include music camps and “music major for a day” events. If a campus visit is not possible, faculty members are always willing to visit virtually with students. The bottom line—while visiting campuses is not always possible, a student’s first choice often changes when they are able to have interactive experiences.

In many institutions, students must apply and/or be accepted into the university before a music audition will be scheduled; relatedly, an additional application to the college, school, or department of music may be required as well. Students should look on the university music website to search for this information—if it’s not clear, students should contact the university music office to clarify the “order of operations.” Letters of recommendation are a standard part of most application processes. Students may need help in identifying appropriate people to write these letters and should be encouraged to ask for letters earlier than later. In addition to a live audition, some institutions may also require a screening video. Again, students may need assistance in finding an appropriate venue in which to record and should be reminded to clearly and confidently announce their name and piece(s) at the beginning of the video.

In many institutions, auditions are only scheduled upon receipt of all materials, so students should be pro-

active in tracking items and making contacts as needed. (Note: this is a good lesson in how FERPA works, the privacy act under which institutions, in many ways, can only interact with students and not parents.) Finally, when interacting via email correspondence, students should always write in a formal manner and include their full name and contact information in all messages.

Potential Financial Aid and Scholarships

To determine eligibility for federal financial aid, students will need to complete the FAFSA form annually. If aid is received, students need to be aware that most entities

require them to carry a minimum of 12 hours per semester in order to receive full aid (this can be particularly tricky during student teaching for music education majors).

Regarding music scholarships—some music schools earmark monies as auditions happen, while others wait and make decisions after all audition days have passed. In general, auditioning earlier is often better for potential scholarship consideration.

Non-music scholarships are also available at public and private institutions, many of which are renewable each year. Some universities have a financial aid portal in which students create a profile that matches them with

potential monies. It is important for students to be proactive and do their research, as small scholarships can be layered and add up to a substantial sum of money. It is also important for students to know that if aid is received, they will likely be required to submit annual documentation for continuance—this could be in the form of letters of recommendation, transcripts, and/or specific forms. Students will need to understand that these are hard deadlines to which they must adhere if aid is to be continued.

continued on page 18

Applications Auditions and

continued from page 17

Audition Requirements

Preparing appropriate audition material is critical, as students may not be considered for admission otherwise. Diligent research on the university’s music website is highly encouraged to ensure the correct materials are chosen. Audition requirements may include technical exercises (e.g., scales, études), a particular number and type of pieces (e.g., pieces from specific time periods; foreign languages for vocal repertoire), sight-reading exercises, and/or music theory assessments. If audition requirements are not clear, students should reach out to the appropriate faculty to clarify what is needed. If students need assistance in selecting audition repertoire, be sure to consider the difficulty level (students will often select music on their own that does not match their current skill set). While harder repertoire may seem important for a competitive edge, most faculty are looking for per-

formances that demonstrate consistent fundamentals. Other variables that often weigh into their decision is the student’s stage presence, expressivity, and perceived potential for growth. The bottom line is that repertoire should demonstrate the student’s “best” technique and tone, with some measure of musicality present.

Preparing for the Audition

As students prepare for their audition, encourage them to spend time on memorization, as slips invariably happen when nerves kick in. If possible, arrange for them to perform for various audiences. These mini performances help them discover how they respond to stress and provide them with opportunities to practice recovering from potential slips. If students struggle in this area, help them begin to focus their energies toward managing physiological responses through breathing, visualization/imagery, and

positive self-talk. Memorizing “anchor points” throughout the music is also helpful if students get stuck and need to jump ahead. Performance practice is an art, and university faculty know this—encourage students to always keep going … The show must go on!

During auditions, students will also likely interact with faculty members. Consequently, they should practice introducing themselves and responding to potential questions (e.g., Why did you choose this institution? Why do you want to be a music education major? Where do you see yourself in 10 years?). Presentation skills should not be minimized, as charisma, positivity, maturity, and demeanor can be a deciding factor with a borderline audition.

If applicable, students should always rehearse their pieces with the piano accompaniment so they know how it sounds with their part before the audition. It is also important for them to inquire if a faculty accompanist will be provided (they often are) or if they should bring their own pianist. If an accompanist is provided, students should bring music that is legible to read and will stay on the piano (larger books often fall in the middle of auditions). Less experienced students may also need a reminder that an accompanist’s job is to follow and support—meaning students should set the tempo and confidently lead with their performance.

Finally, students should be encouraged to set realistic goals for their auditions. Apprehension and nervousness are to be expected, and there is no such thing as a “perfect” performance. Again, faculty are looking for many things beyond notes, rhythms, and text—stage presence, musicality, and presentation are also very important!

Audition Day

For their audition, students should dress in a way that is comfortable, but that also shows respect for the process and what they have to offer. Students should bring extra (legal) copies of music and any required paperwork, along with water and a snack. Students should also make a plan to arrive early and anticipate that parking may be challenging on campus (inquire beforehand about this to know where to park and if it is free). Once arrived, students should check in at the music school and warm up in the designated area; it is possible that warmup spaces are limited, so it is always a good idea to arrive having played or sung beforehand. Students may not have time to meet with a provided accompanist, but if given the opportunity, they should quickly point out places they need more support (tempos changes, places to breathe, etc.).

When brought into the room, students will be guided through the audition pro -

cess. Students should know that it is normal to be stopped in the middle of pieces due to time constraints (this can be jarring if they’re not mentally prepared for this to happen). If sight-reading or theory assessments are administered, encourage students to stay in a positive mindset and do their best (these are often diagnostic tools and not consequential to acceptance). Also important for students to know, university faculty will likely be typing, writing, and possibly communicating during auditions—this is normal, and students should not take this as a negative sign or disapproval. If given an opportunity to ask questions, it is entirely appropriate for students to politely ask about the acceptance decision timeline. Finally, remind students to relax, present their most authentic self, and leave feeling positive about what they did.

Making the Final Decision

Once a student has been accepted into a university, they must also be accepted

into the music part of the institution. After auditions, communication will be sent out via email and/or letter. If an admittance offer is made, students must accept or deny the offer. A timely response is critical for many reasons, the most important of which is related to faculty teaching loads. If a student has received multiple offers and is on the fence between schools, it is entirely appropriate to communicate this with faculty members at each institution. Oftentimes in this situation, a faculty member will contact the student and dialogue further with them; in some cases, an additional scholarship offer can even be made. Ultimately, making a final decision of where to go is a reciprocal process and should be a good fit for both the student and the university.

Supporting the Next Generation

As music educators, we know this is a difficult profession, but an extremely rewarding one. In today’s post-pandemic era, we know that anxiety among young adults is at an all-time high. Providing high school students with resources such as this can potentially reduce apprehension in the application/audition process and make it a more positive experience. Ultimately, the future of the performing arts profession depends on raising up the next generation of musicians—let us support them as best we can!

Sandy P. Hinkley, PhD, is an associate professor at Sam Houston State University, where she serves as the associate director of choral activities and coordinator of music education. Prior to joining the SHSU faculty, Dr. Hinkley taught choral music in Florida for 20 years at the middle and high school levels.

How do I get to the

Making your case to attend the 2025 FMEA Professional Learning Conference

Getting approval to attend the Florida Music Education Association Professional Learning Conference may require developing a proposal. Due to tight budgets in today’s economy, school principals and districts carefully scrutinize requests to attend professional learning. That does not mean you should not give it your best effort by showing your administrators how your attendance will benefit the students in your school. Rather than assuming your administrators are aware of the critical importance of you professionally benefitting from content-specific sessions, consider submitting a formal proposal.

Through this proposal, you can demonstrate how your participation directly relates to the strategies and the objectives of your school (including those beyond the classroom). This will allow you to articulate the need for your continuing education and how it will benefit your students, your school, and you.

Develop Your Case

w Write down three of the most important goals and strategies being addressed in your school’s plan.

w Think about how you personally contribute to those three goals and strategies. How does your work as a music educator affect the overall mission of your school? Make a list of your personal contributions to your school’s goals and strategies.

w Review the conference’s professional learning schedule to better understand how the information provided will support your school’s goals. Mark meetings that relate to your list of personal contributions to the attainment of those goals and strategies, and make note of the clinicians and others you will be able to

observe and/or with whom you will be able to interact while at the conference. List the high-quality performances you will observe and from which you will learn. You can download the conference app from the FMEA’s website and bookmark your sessions.

w Write down your case for how attending the FMEA Professional Learning Conference and meeting the people there will help you contribute to your school’s goals and strategies, and use this case with your administrators when making your request to attend the conference.

When you create your proposal, in addition to providing a summary of the funding you will need, detail your case for attending. List your school’s goals, download the conference schedule, list the sessions and the clinicians and presenters who will be there, and list the specific sessions you plan to attend. Also, list the performing groups you will have the opportunity to observe during rehearsals with national clinicians as well as the performances by these well-known conductors (from whom you can gain programming and conducting ideas). Additionally, let your administrators know that this conference has more than 10,000 teachers, administrators, students, and parents in attendance, the second largest music education conference in the nation.

Finally, ask your administrators to support you to attend the FMEA Professional Learning Conference in Tampa, Florida, January 8-11, 2025.

conference?

Partners as of November 4, 2024.

*Please visit FMEA.org/partners for partnership details or call 850-878-6844.

BRONZE PARTNERS

2025 FMEA Professional Learning

JANUARY 8-11, 2025, TAMPA CONVENTION CENTER

COnference

We

wait to see you in Tampa this January!

Important Conference Dates & Information

Early registration closes at midnight. Prices increase to the regular registration rates. You may continue to register and pay online until the conference.

December 13, 2024

December 16, 2024

Postmark deadline for checks mailed to pay for conference registration. After this date, all unpaid conference registrations must be paid by credit card online, or the check must be brought with you to the conference.

All school lodging checks are due to hotels, payable to the hotel where reservations were made for you and/or your students.

The final deadline for discounted hotel blocks; unsold rooms in the FMEA blocks are released back to hotels.

go digital!

The 2025 conference program will be digital only ... and of course you’ll want to download the conference app for all the latest info! Concert programs will still be printed.

The FMEA Professional Learning Conference

is one of the largest music education professional development events in the United States. In addition to approximately 200 clinic sessions and concerts, it is host to 24 all-state ensembles featuring Florida’s top band, orchestra, chorus, guitar, Orff, and popular music students conducted by world-class conductors and teachers.

It is attended by more than 10,000 people, including secondary music directors, elementary music teachers, music supervisors, college students, college music teachers, school administrators, K-12 students performing in the all-state ensembles, students and professional musicians performing with invited performing ensembles, exhibitors, and parents and family members of performing students.

So many reasons to participate:

w An exhibit hall with world-class exhibitors providing products and services for music educators and students

w More than 3,000 music teachers and 300 administrators

w More than 200 sessions covering a variety of topics for all music educators, with on-demand access to recordings after the conference

w Performances and mini-concerts from some of Florida’s top music programs

w Networking opportunities, college fair, awards ceremony, and other special events

Registration

Registration Prices and Procedures

w Membership in FMEA and NAfME is a prerequisite for registration. See the Registration Policies for details.

w To take advantage of early discounted rates, you must register and pay before the deadlines.

Note: If you are mailing a check to the FMEA office to pay for your registration, it must be postmarked early enough so that it will ARRIVE in the FMEA office before the preregistration deadline.

REGISTRATION FEES

Refund Policies

1. Full registration refunds are available for cancellation requests made through December 15, 2024.

2. No registration refunds will be made for cancellations made after December 15, 2024, except for emergency situations. These will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

3. Refunds must be requested in writing (email is acceptable).

4. All requests for refunds must be received no later than January 31, 2025. Requests received after that date will not be processed.

5. All refunds will be issued after the conference is completed.

6. There are no refunds for concert tickets.

Registration Policies

1. All participants—directors, students, chaperones, and guests—must be registered for the conference.

2. Only directors may register their groups or pick up registration materials if preregistered.

3. All participating students must be chaperoned. As required by FMEA and FSMA, at least one chaperone other than a director is required for every ten (10) students or fraction thereof; however, FMEA policy allows for one free chaperone for every six (6) students or fraction thereof.

4. An additional paid chaperone may be registered for (a) each six (6) students registered or (b) for each all-state rehearsal site where registered students are performing.

5. If a participating student is not accompanied by the director from that student’s school, then the principal from that school must furnish a letter designating the person from the school or school district who is to be in charge of that student. The letter should be addressed to the FMEA executive director, explain the extenuating circumstances preventing the director from attending, and must be submitted with registration materials. The school will be notified of approval.

6. Student observers are not allowed to attend the conference. If any student observers are brought to the conference, the offending school’s participation in the conference may be eliminated the following year. (Tri-M students registered and participating in sessions or working for the all-state concerts are exempt from this rule.)

7. All school music teachers must register for the conference as FMEA directors and be current members of FMEA. This includes directors of invited performing groups, mini-concerts, and session presenters. All-state conductors from Florida schools, colleges, or universities must also be FMEA members. No current music teacher may register as a chaperone.

Chaperone Registration

Chaperone registration is based on the following rules:

Elementary Students

w For each elementary student registered, one free chaperone and one paid chaperone may be registered.

w Any additional attendees must purchase a guest pass at on-site registration for entry into the convention center.

Middle School and High School Students

w For every six students registered, one free chaperone and one paid chaperone may be registered. No other chaperones may be registered until the seventh student is registered.

w Any additional attendees (chaperones or guests) must purchase a guest pass at on-site registration for entry into the convention center.

w EXCEPTIONS

~ If you have students in more than one performing ensemble, you may pay for a chaperone for each performing ensemble in which you have registered students.

~ If you have students from different schools, you may pay for a chaperone for each school for which you have registered students.

Chaperones are not allowed to bring other children who are not participating in an all-state ensemble. Only registered students, teachers, and chaperones wearing a conference badge are allowed in and around the rehearsal areas. Directors are asked to make sure their chaperones are aware of this policy before agreeing to serve as a chaperone.

Greetings! It’s the wonderful time of year when we start planning our very special conference event.

The Florida Music Education Association has contracted the following Tampa hotels for the January 8-11, 2025, Professional Learning Conference.

We look forward to seeing you in Tampa!

HOTELS

Contracted for 2025 FMEA Professional Learning Conference

NOTE: FMEA IS NOT offering a housing bureau service. All participants MUST reserve their rooms online via links that will be posted at FMEA.org/conference/hotels/ on September 28, 2024 . Please confirm the guest room rate posted below when you make your reservation. We look forward to seeing you in Tampa!

w All reservations will be made online via links that will be posted at FMEA.org/conference/hotels/. Room blocks will open on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 9 am EDT. The hotel list will be available on the FMEA website at that time, along with the online reservation links and phone numbers for each hotel.

w Guest rooms at the contracted rates will be available until the room block is full or until the cancellation deadline of November 9, 2024, at 5 pm. If your hotel of choice is sold out, please continue to try to make a reservation until November 9, 2024, as FMEA attendees will periodically release surplus guest rooms.

w A maximum of five (5) guest rooms may be reserved per name/credit card.

w Directors should try to reserve rooms for all-state students and chap erones in the hotel where they are rehearsing.

w Credit cards are required for online reservations, and the credit card name must match the name on the reservation.

w If calling, be sure to request the “Florida Music Education Association” room block rate and confirm the guest room rate listed for the hotel.

w If paying by check, reservations must be made over the phone, and a check for the full amount must be mailed directly to the hotel no later than December 13, 2024.

w You do not need to register for the conference before reserving your hotel rooms, but this is something we are considering for future conferences.

w Each hotel will have contract terms, such as parking charges, etc., on their reservation link.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the FMEA hotels so expensive?

The prices we contract with the hotels are much lower than their standard room rates during the same dates (in many cases, less than half).

Why is it so hard to get a room?

When the blocks first open, everyone tries to get as many rooms as they can in case they need them for all-state students and chaperones, so they fill up very fast. If you wait until after the all-state results come out, many people will have cancelled their rooms and it will be much easier for everyone else to get a reservation.

Why don’t you wait and open the hotel block after all-state auditions results are released?

Our hotel partners are not comfortable waiting until we are so close to the start of the conference to start booking room reservations.

Is there a cancellation fee?

No, as long as you have cancelled all the rooms you no longer need by the cancellation deadline listed, you will not be charged any type of cancellation fee. After the cancellation deadline, a deposit of one night per room in your reservation will be charged to your credit card, and that deposit is nonrefundable.

Someone at the hotel told me that cancelled rooms don’t go back into the FMEA block, and they are sold at full price instead. Is that true?

Not until December 16. Before that date, all the hotel rooms in the FMEA blocks that are cancelled will go back into the FMEA blocks and can be reserved by other FMEA members at the low FMEA rate.

possible and no later than 5 PM ON NOVEMBER 9, 2024, and you must secure a cancellation confirmation number. This courtesy will make surplus rooms available to other FMEA members and conference attendees.

Nonrefundable Deposit

On November 12, 2024, each room reserved and not cancelled by November 9 will be charged a nonrefundable deposit in the amount of the posted rate for one night plus tax. It will be charged to the credit card used to secure the reservation. Invalid credit cards risk reservation cancellation.

If Hotels Are Full

Every year, the hotel blocks fill up almost immediately upon opening due to teachers overestimating how many they will need for all-state students and chaperones. They cancel the rooms they don’t need after the audition results are released (late October and early November).

w Try again in late October or early November after all-state results are released and teachers cancel rooms for students who were not selected. w Try again after the cancellation deadline. All cancelled rooms will return to the FMEA blocks until December 16, 2024.

w Please do not reserve a room outside of the FMEA blocks! To receive discounts for the ballrooms we use for all-state rehearsals, we must fill most of our allotted room blocks. If we do not meet our required minimum number of hotel nights sold, we will need to raise conference registration rates to compensate for the added cost of the rehearsal space.

All-State COncerts

Attendee Concert Tickets

Registered conference attendees, such as directors, chaperones, students, and administrators registered as part of your conference registration, will be admitted to all all-state concerts with their conference badge. Purchased tickets are necessary for other family or friends attending only the concert.

All-state concerts are now sold exclusively online through the FMEA conference ticket sponsor: TeachTix. Directors should send the following link to the parents or guardians of their all-state students who may need to purchase tickets: FMEA.org/Conference/ Tickets/

Ticket Sales

Tickets are sold online for family, friends, and other attendees who are not registered for the conference. Directors will no longer need to pre-order all-state concert tickets for their students’ family members or friends who will be attending their concerts. Send them this link instead: FMEA.org/Conference/Tickets/.

Tickets will go on sale in September, and can be purchased anytime up until 30 minutes after the start time of the concert.

Tickets purchased will be emailed to the purchaser and can be printed or stored on their phone. The barcode will be scanned at the door to validate a ticket’s authenticity and to gain entrance to the concert.

No Refunds. Tickets may be exchanged for another concert or transferred to another person using the online ticket sales portal only.

Signs with QR codes will be posted at the conference for purchasing tickets at the door with your smartphone.

A desk in the conference registration area on the second floor of the convention center will be selling paper tickets if you need to purchase tickets with cash or if you do not want to use electronic tickets.

Concert Reentry Procedure

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get free tickets for my students’ family members to attend the concert?

No.

Can I get free tickets to any concerts?

No. Registered attendees (directors, chaperones, students) are allowed admission to concerts with their name badge so no ticket is necessary. Attendees that are not registered for the conference (parents, family, etc.) must purchase tickets.

Can I buy extra tickets anytime?

Anyone can purchase tickets online. Electronic tickets will go on sale in September and sales will close 30 minutes after each concert’s scheduled start time. Paper tickets will be sold at the FMEA registration desk during its regular open hours on Thursday through Saturday.

Once a ticket’s barcode is scanned to gain entry, that ticket is marked as “used” and will no longer be eligible for another entry into the concert. Attendees who need to exit and reenter the concert should be prepared to show their ticket and a photo ID to confirm they are the ticket owner to gain reentry into the concert hall.

Does my young child need to buy a ticket?

Everyone who will be taking up a seat will need a ticket. Babies that are being held by a parent or sitting on a parent’s lap for the duration of the concert are welcome without a ticket, but children who are old enough to sit in their own seat will need a ticket.

1. Registered (BADGED) attendees do not require tickets to attend any all-state concert. This includes directors/ members, directors’ non-teaching spouses, performing all-state students, registered chaperones, collegiate student members, retired members, and VIP guests that you entered as part of your conference registration.

2. All nonregistered (NONBADGED) attendees (parents, family members, guests, etc.) are required to purchase tickets for any all-state concert they wish to attend.

3. There are no “free” or “allotted” tickets. All concert attendees must either wear their conference badge or purchase a ticket.

4. Tickets will be electronic and sold online utilizing a mobile-friendly website. The link will be available on the conference website well in advance of the conference, and directors are encouraged to share the link with all of their all-state students and their parents or guardians. On site at the conference, the links and QR codes will be posted on signs in the venue so attendees may purchase tickets using their smartphones. Anyone who wishes to attend a concert can purchase an electronic ticket online anytime up until 30 minutes after the concert’s published start time.

5. There is no longer a need for directors to pre-purchase any tickets for their students or their families. Instead, they should direct the student and their family to the online ticket sales website. Any directors who still wish

All-Ticket Sales Are Final. No Refunds.

Please make sure you know the exact name of the all-state ensemble for which you need tickets before approaching the ticket sales window. Exchanges may only be made through the online portal.

Note: No concerts will be held in the Straz Performing Arts Center.

to purchase tickets should take care to correctly enter the names and email addresses of the people who will be using the tickets into the online sales portal, or transfer the tickets to those who will be using the tickets using their correct name and email address in the online ticket sales portal.

6. Paper tickets will be on sale at the registration desk on site at the conference for attendees who would like to pay by cash or who do not want to use electronic tickets. Paper ticket sales for all-state concerts will begin on Thursday morning and continue Friday and Saturday at the FMEA registration desk. There is no requirement that the director or any other registered attendee be the person purchasing these tickets. If a concert starts after the registration desk is closed, only electronic tickets will continue to be sold for that concert.

7. All ticket sales are final. There are no refunds for any concert tickets. Tickets may be transferred or exchanged using the online ticket sales portal only.

8. For entrance, ticket, and concert purposes, a concert is defined as the pair or group of ensembles that are performing in the same venue in a common, defined block of time. An example of a “concert” for purposes of entrance and ticketing would be the 5:30 pm concert that features both the Treble Chorus and Mixed Chorus or the 6:30 pm concert that features the Middle, Concert, and Symphonic Bands.

All-State Rehearsals

All-State Concert Band

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Saturday, January 11, 2025, 6:30pm

Reseating Auditions

Hotel Tampa Riverwalk, Riverwalk Ballroom

Thursday 9am-11am

Rehearsals

Hotel Tampa Riverwalk, Riverwalk Ballroom

Thursday 1pm-5pm

Thursday 7pm-9:30pm

Friday 8:30am-11:30am

Friday 1pm-5pm

Saturday ............................................... 9am-12noon

All-State Concert Chorus

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11am

Rehearsals – Tampa Convention Center, Room 114

Thursday .......................... 8am-8:30am, Registration

Thursday 8:30am-11:30am

Thursday 1:30pm-4:30pm

Thursday 6:30pm-9pm

Friday 8:30am-11:30am

Friday 1:30pm-4pm

All-State Concert Orchestra

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30pm

Registration for Strings – Marriott Water Street, Florida Ballroom, Salons 5-6

Thursday, 7:30am-8am

Reseating Auditions for Strings

Marriott Water Street, Florida Ballroom, Salons 5-6

Thursday, 8am-11:30am

Registration for Woodwinds/Brass/Percussion –

Marriott Water Street, Florida Ballroom, Salons 5-6

Thursday, 9am-9:30am

Sectional Rehearsal – Marriott Water Street, Florida Ballroom, Salons 5-6

Thursday 9:30am-11:30am

Woodwinds/Brass/Percussion

Full Orchestra Rehearsals – Marriott Water Street, Florida Ballroom, Salons 5-6

Thursday .................................................. 1pm-5pm

Thursday 7pm-9pm

Friday 8:30am-11:30am

Friday 1pm-5pm

Saturday 8:30am-10:30am

All-State Elementary Chorus

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Thursday, January 9, 2025, 1:30pm

Rehearsals – Tampa Convention Center

Wednesday ...... 12noon-1pm, Registration, Room 114

Wednesday .............................. 1pm-6pm, Room 114

Thursday 7:45am-12:45pm, Room 111

All-State Elementary Orff Ensemble

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Friday, January 10, 2025, 1pm

Rehearsals – Tampa Convention Center

Thursday 10am-11am, Registration, West Hall A Thursday 11am-6pm, West Hall A Friday ................................8am-11:30am, Room 112

All-State Guitar Ensemble

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom Thursday, January 9, 2025, 12:30pm Rehearsals

Tuesday ..................................................... 7pm-9pm

Marriott Water Street, Meeting Room 8

Wednesday 8:30am-12noon

Marriott Water Street, Meeting Room 8

Wednesday 1pm-5pm

Marriott Water Street, Meeting Room 8

Thursday ....................................... 8:30am-11:30am

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

All-State High School

Jazz Band

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Friday, January 10, 2025, 7:30pm

Rehearsals – Tampa Convention Center, Room 407

Wednesday 2pm-5:30pm

Wednesday ............................................... 7pm-9pm

Thursday ....................................... 8:30am-11:30am

Thursday 1pm-5pm Friday 8:30am-12noon

All-State Intercollegiate Band

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Friday, January 10, 2025, 4pm

Rehearsals – Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk, Crown Ballroom

Thursday 8am-9am, Registration

Thursday ............................................ 9am-11:30am

Thursday ............................................. 1pm-4:30pm

Thursday 6pm-9pm Friday 8am-12noon

All-State Middle School Band

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Saturday, January 11, 2025, 6:30pm

Reseating Auditions – Hilton Tampa Downtown, Palma Ceia Ballroom

Thursday, 9am-11am

Rehearsals

Hilton Tampa Downtown, Palma Ceia Ballroom

Thursday 1pm-5pm

Thursday 7pm-9pm

Friday 8:30am-11:30am Friday 2pm-5:30pm

Saturday .......................................... 8:30am-12noon

All-State Middle School Jazz Band

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Friday, January 10, 2025, 7:30pm Rehearsals

Westin Tampa Waterside, Conch Room

Wednesday .......................................... 2pm-5:30pm

Wednesday ............................................... 7pm-9pm

Thursday ....................................... 8:30am-11:30am

Thursday 1pm-5pm

Friday 8:30am-12noon

All-State Middle School Mixed Chorus

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Friday, January 10, 2025, 5:30pm

Rehearsals – Hilton Tampa Downtown, Bayshore Ballroom 1-3

Thursday ...................... 11am-11:30am, Registration

Thursday ....................................... 11:30am-1:30pm

Thursday 3pm-5pm

Thursday 6:30pm-8:30pm

Friday 8:30am-11:15am

Friday 12:45pm-2:45pm

All-State Middle School Orchestra

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30pm Reseating Auditions

Marriott Water Street, Meeting Room 8

Thursday, 7:30am-8am, Registration Thursday, 8am-11:30am Rehearsals

Marriott Water Street, Meeting Room 8

Thursday 1pm-5pm

Thursday 7pm-9pm

Friday ............................................ 8:30am-11:30am

Friday ....................................................... 1pm-5pm

Saturday 9am-11am

All-State Middle School Treble Chorus

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Friday, January 10, 2025, 5:30pm Rehearsals

Hilton Tampa Downtown, Bayshore Ballroom 5-7

Thursday ...................... 10:30am-11am, Registration Thursday ............................................ 11am-1:15pm Thursday ........................................ 2:45pm-4:45pm Thursday 6:15pm-8:15pm Friday 8:45am-11:30am Friday 1pm-3pm

All-State Popular Music Collective

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom Thursday, January 9, 2025, 6pm

Rehearsals – Tampa Convention Center, Room 403 Wednesday ........................................... 8am-12noon Wednesday ............................................... 1pm-5pm

Wednesday 6pm-9pm

All-State Reading Chorus

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Saturday, January 11, 2025, 8:45am Rehearsals

Embassy Suites Downtown, Gandy Meeting Room Thursday 8am-8:30am, Registration

Thursday 8:30am-11:30am Thursday 1:30pm-4:30pm Thursday ..............................................6:30pm-9pm Friday ............................................ 8:30am-11:30am Friday 1:30pm-4pm Friday 4:30pm-5:30pm, Tampa Convention Center, Room 120

All-State SSAA Chorus

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Friday, January 10, 2025, 7:30pm Rehearsals

Westin Tampa Waterside, Oasis Ballroom

Thursday 8am-8:30am, Registration

Thursday ....................................... 8:30am-11:30am

Thursday ........................................ 1:30pm-4:30pm Thursday 6:30pm-9pm Friday 8:30am-11:30am Friday 1:30pm-4pm

All-State Symphonic Band

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Saturday, January 11, 2025, 6:30pm

Reseating Auditions

Tampa Convention Center, Room 122

Thursday 8:30am-10:30am

Rehearsals – Tampa Convention Center, Room 122

Thursday ...................................... 12:30pm-4:30pm

Thursday 6:30pm-9pm Friday 8:30am-11:30am Friday 1pm-5pm Saturday 9am-12noon

All-State Symphonic Orchestra

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30pm

Reseating Auditions – Tampa Convention Center Thursday, 8am-8:30am, Registration, Room 124

Thursday ....................................... 8:30am-11:30am

Violin 1, Room 103

Violin 2, Room 105

Viola, Room 106 Cello, Room 104 Bass, Room 109

Sectional Rehearsal

Tampa Convention Center, Room 124

Thursday 8:30am-11:30am Woodwind/Brass/Percussion

Full Orchestra Rehearsals

Tampa Convention Center, Room 124

Thursday .................................................. 1pm-5pm

Thursday .................................................. 7pm-9pm Friday 8:30am-11:30am Friday 1pm-5pm Saturday 9am-11am

All-State TTBB Chorus

Concert – Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A Saturday, January 11, 2025, 8:45am Rehearsals

Embassy Suites Downtown, Bayside Ballroom

Thursday ......................... 8am-8:30am, Registration

Thursday ....................................... 8:30am-11:30am

Thursday 1:30pm-4:30pm

Thursday 6:30pm-9pm

Friday 8:30am-11:30am Friday 1:30pm-4pm

All-State Rehearsals

High School Honors Band

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30pm

Reseating Auditions

Hotel Tampa Riverwalk, Bayshore Ballroom

Thursday, 9am-11am Rehearsals

Hotel Tampa Riverwalk, Bayshore Ballroom

Thursday .................................................. 1pm-5pm

Thursday ............................................. 7pm-9:30pm

Friday 8:30am-11:30am

Friday 1pm-5pm

High School Honors

Big Band

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Friday, January 10, 2025, 7:30pm

Rehearsals – Embassy Suites Tampa Airport

Westshore, Cypress Room

Wednesday .......................................... 2pm-5:30pm

Wednesday ............................................... 7pm-9pm

Thursday 8:30am-11:30am

Thursday 1pm-5pm

Friday 8:30am-12noon

High School Honors Orchestra

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11am Rehearsals

Embassy Suites Downtown, Skyway Room

Thursday 8am-8:30am, Registration Thursday 8:30am-11:30am Thursday .................................................. 1pm-5pm Thursday .................................................. 7pm-9pm Friday 8:30am-11:30am Friday 1pm-5pm

Middle School Honors Band

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30pm

Reseating Auditions

Hilton Tampa Downtown, Esplanade Suite Thursday, 9am-11am

Rehearsals

Hilton Tampa Downtown, Esplanade Suite Thursday 1pm-5pm Thursday 7pm-9:30pm Friday 8:30am-11:30am Friday 1pm-5pm

Middle School Honors

Orchestra

Concert – Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11am Rehearsals

Hotel Tampa Riverwalk, Riverview Room

Thursday 8am-8:30am, Registration

Thursday 8:30am-11:30am

Thursday 1pm-5pm

Thursday 7pm-9pm

Friday ............................................ 8:30am-11:30am Friday ....................................................... 1pm-5pm

Session Attendance Verification Report

Provide proof of the sessions you attended to your administration with Session Attendance Verification Reports!

Each of our presenters will be provided a QR code and asked to display it on the last slide of their presentation. Scan that QR code to confirm your attendance and add the session to your Verification Report.

Requirements:

w Register for the conference, either via preregistration or on site.

w Make sure you can login to the FMEA website using the web browser on your phone. Use the username and password you chose when you renewed your membership. If you are from outside of Florida, you should have chosen your username and password when you registered for the conference.

w Learn how to scan a QR code with your phone. With iPhones and newer Androids, you just need to open your camera, point it at the code, and a box will appear for you to click.

FMEA does NOT automatically submit your hours for you. It is up to you to follow the process outlined by your school or school district to apply for the professional development points toward your certificate renewal.

Policies

Code of Conduct

FMEA is dedicated to providing a positive environment of respect and civility for all attendees, including members, students, parents, speakers, clinicians, exhibitors, sponsors, staff, volunteers, and guests. All attendees are asked to follow all applicable laws and conference policies and to refrain from physical and verbal harassment, bullying, disorderly conduct, or any actions or behaviors that create unsafe conditions or interfere with presentations or performances. Harassment, bullying, and sexual language and imagery are not appropriate for any conference venue, including clinics, workshops, concerts, rehearsals, social events, online, and social media. Violations should be reported to convention center security or conference staff in a timely manner. Violators and their registered students may be expelled from the conference without a refund at the discretion of the FMEA Executive Committee.

Indemnity Clause

FMEA reserves the right to change the conference/workshop content, timing, speakers, or venue without notice. The event may be postponed or cancelled due to acts of terrorism, war, extreme weather conditions, industrial action, fewer than expected delegates, pandemic, or any event beyond the control of FMEA. If such a situation arises, FMEA will endeavor to reschedule the event; however, FMEA cannot be held responsible for any cost, damage, or expenses that may be incurred by the registrant as a consequence of the event being postponed or cancelled. Some registrants consider travel insurance to cover the cost of the registration, travel, and expenses for these types of situations. FMEA is not responsible for any registrant’s personal injury (i.e., physical, psychological, or emotional stress) or property damages while attending an FMEA conference or event. Conference registrants assume all risks inherent in attending an FMEA conference for which the registration covers, whether before, during, or after the conference.

Photographic Release

By attending the conference and/or associated activities, you grant permission for FMEA to use any and all photographic imagery and video footage taken of you and your students at this event and activities pertaining to this event, without payment or any other consideration. You understand that such materials may be published electronically or in print, or used in presentations or exhibitions.

Security Procedures

The Florida Music Education Association works with the Tampa Police Department and Allied Security at the Tampa Convention Center (TCC) to enhance the conference experience for the students and attendees.

Great News!

In order to help keep attendees safe, there will be a heightened security presence throughout the TCC and at various hotels. All entrances to the TCC will be patrolled by uniformed officers of the Tampa Police Department and uniformed Allied Security personnel. They will be patrolling the TCC as well. The Tampa Police Department will be at the crosswalks between Marriott Tampa Water Street and the TCC, at concerts, and patrolling some of the downtown hotels during rehearsals.

All attendees (this includes members, exhibitors, chaperones, and student participants) must wear their conference badge during the conference once the authorized registrant obtains the conference packet.

Please be prepared for random bag and/or purse searches. It is encouraged, if at all possible, to use a clear bag, similar to those used at sporting events, for entrance.

All-State Conductors

Mrs. Nancy Beebe

Middle School Honors Orchestra

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11 am

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Ms. Kalena Bovell

All-State Concert Orchestra

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30 pm

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Ms. Mary Biddlecombe

All-State Elementary Chorus

Thursday, January 9, 2025, 1:30 pm

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Mr. Kenneth Boyd High School Honors Big Band

Dr. Tucker Biddlecombe

All-State Reading Chorus

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 8:45 am

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Mr. Evan Billings

All-State Elementary Orff Ensemble

Friday, January 10, 2025, 1 pm

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Friday, January 10, 2025, 7:30 pm

Dr. Jason Max Ferdinand

All-State Concert Chorus

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11 am

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Mr. Mike Kamuf

All-State Middle School Jazz Band

Friday, January 10, 2025, 7:30 pm

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Dr. Trent R. Brown

All-State TTBB Chorus

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 8:45 am

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Dr. Emily Williams Burch

All-State Middle School Mixed Chorus

Friday, January 10, 2025, 5:30 pm

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Mrs. Tamara Lewis

Middle School Honors Band

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30 pm

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Mr. Glen McCarthy

All-State Guitar Ensemble

Thursday, January 9, 2025, 12:30 pm

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Dr. Devan L. Moore

All-State Middle School Band

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 6:30 pm

Dr. Verena Mösenbichler-Bryant

All-State Intercollegiate Band

Friday, January 10, 2025, 4 pm

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

All-State

All-State SSAA Chorus

Friday, January 10, 2025, 7:30 pm

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 6:30 pm

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11 am

Dr. Douglas L. Phillips

All-State Symphonic Band

Dr. Kyle Prescott

Concert Band

Dr. Andrea Ramsey

Dr. Marguerite Richardson

High School Honors Orchestra

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

Dr. Hillary J. Ridgley

All-State Middle School Treble Chorus

Friday, January 10, 2025, 5:30 pm

Mr. Bingiee Shiu

All-State Middle School Orchestra

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30 pm

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Mr. Bruce Walker

All-State Symphonic Orchestra

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30 pm

Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom A

Mr. Dan Wooten

High School Honors Band

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2:30 pm

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

PRE-CONFERENCE

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

1pm – 5pm

Contemporary Trends & Issues in Education

12:45 pm: Opening Remarks by FMEA President-Elect Skip Pardee

Session

A: Creating Meaningful Music Programs in Rural Schools

Presenters

Dr. Chris Harper

Dr. DaShaun McGee

Session B: Charms and Challenges of Students With Disabilities in Title I and Rural Schools

Dr. Christine Lapka

Presenters

Cody Puckett

Presenters

Presenters

Fernando Garcia

Alexander Burden

Maria Del Valle

Lissette Garcia-Burden

Sandra Stein

Dr. Arnekua Jackson

Pardee

president’s concert

Sponsored by FMEA

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

7:30pm-9pm

TCC, Ballroom B

Coordinators: Clinton LaFlam, Christopher Bowen

Raa Middle School Advanced Steelband

Director: William Sahely

The Raa Middle School Advanced Steelband is made up of eighth grade students who have been in the Raa Steelband Program for three years. This is an auditioned group of students who have shown dedication and skill at playing the steelpan. The Raa Advanced Steelband performs at many events in and around Tallahassee and the North Florida area and has performed for the FMEA Steelband Festival each of the past seven years. As Florida’s only full-time middle school steelband program, the Raa Steelband Program strives to be leaders in steelband performance by showcasing all the musical skills and excitement that can be achieved through the wonderful instrument called the steelpan.

Blake High School Jazz Messengers

Director: Carmen Griffin

The Blake Jazz Messengers are composed of magnet and traditional students from the Music Department including band, orchestra, piano, and guitar. Students range from grades 9-12 and are mixed skill level, with some enrolled in Jazz I – Jazz IV. Students have the opportunity to take a jazz theory course aiding their understanding of improvisation. The group fellowships with community partners such as Ruth Eckerd Jazz and the Straz Jazz Project. The ensemble has maintained straight superior ratings at district and state evaluations, has historically competed in the Essentially Ellington competition, has had students selected to participate in the Vail Jazz Fest, and has numerous graduates working professionally in the industry such as recording artists Eric Darius and B. K. Jackson. Many Jazz Messengers graduate with scholarships to fine institutions for jazz education. The ensemble commonly performs on festivals in Tampa such as Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, and Gasparilla Music Fest.

Freedom High School Guitar Orchestra

Director: Christopher Perez

The FHS Guitar Orchestra is internationally known, presenting regularly at concerts and festivals in and outside the state of Florida. Performance highlights include the FMEA Professional Learning Conference and All-State Concerts; Walt Disney World, Sea World, and Marriott resorts; the Long Island Guitar Festival in New York; the Stetson University Guitar Day; the Florida Guitar Festival at Florida State University; the Miami International GuitART Festival at Florida International University; and also virtually with the Virtual Guitar Orchestra Project. The Freedom High School Guitar Program enjoys nationally and internationally renowned artists, composers, and guitar professors visiting as guest clinicians to work with their students and perform in concert with their ensembles, including Dr. Stephen Robinson, William Kanengiser, Bobby Koelble, Samuel Hines, Harris Becker, Christopher Gotzen-Berg, Rex Willis, Dr. Lynn McGrath, Dr. Ulisses Rocha, Dr. Eva Beneke, Dr. Adam Kossler, and Dr. Nicholas Ciraldo.

FMEA EXHIBITION GRAND OPENING

Thursday, January 9, 2025 • 12:15pm-12:30pm TCC, East Hall A

Sponsored by FMEA Coordinators: Fred Schiff, Melissa Nelson

EXHIBIT Hall hours

(Subject to Change)

Thursday 12:15-6pm*

*Colleges and Universities: College Night will be in the Exhibition Hall on Thursday from 5pm until 7pm

Friday: 10am-6:30pm

Saturday: 9am-1pm NO BADGE SATURDAY: Conference badges are only required on Thursday and Friday. This allows all-state students to bring their family and friends into the exhibits on Saturday.

Celebrate the FMEA Exhibition Grand Opening Ceremony featuring the Brass Band of Central Florida.

Fmea First General Session

Sponsored by FMEA

Thursday, January 9, 2025

10:30am-12noon

TCC, Ballroom A Coordinators:

Dr. John Southall, Melissa Nelson

The Florida Music Education Association’s First General Session is an inspiring and dynamic event, showcasing the incredible impact of music education through engaging presentations and unforgettable performances. Robyn Hilger, executive director of the American Choral Directors Association, is the keynote speaker, and FMEA President Jason Locker will preside over this superb session, which will also feature Jane Castor, mayor of Tampa; Dr. Kathy Sanz, FMEA executive director; and Fred Schiff, FMEA Corporate & Academic Partners chair. In addition, performances by the renowned vocal ensemble Voctave and the talented Rainbow Elementary Violin Club will be a musical highlight of this general session.

Mayor Jane Castor

Robyn Hilger

Fred Schiff

Dr. Kathy Sanz

Jason Locker

Rainbow Elementary Violin Club

FMEA Second General Session

Sponsored by FMEA

Friday, January 10, 2025

9am-10:15am

TCC, Ballroom A Coordinators:

Dr. John Southall, Melissa Nelson

The Florida Music Education Association’s Second General Session is a vibrant celebration of musical excellence. During this session, we will honor select music educators, administrators, music advocates, and music industry representatives who have contributed greatly to the music education profession over the years. A highlight of this session will be the annual Awards Ceremony and the FMEA Hall of Fame award presentation. President Jason Locker will preside over this superb event, and Dr. Deb Confredo, president of the National Association for Music Education, will serve as guest speaker. In addition, performances by Dr. Dale Rieth on piano and the Volusia AllCounty Elementary STOMP Ensemble with directors Kris Light, Semoia Reid, and Chelsea Greer, and coordinator Craig Uppercue, will be a musical highlight for this event.

Dr. Dale Rieth

Dr. Deb Confredo

Volusia All-County Elementary STOMP Ensemble

Sponsored by FMEA

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Coordinators: Clinton LaFlam, Christopher Bowen

8:30am-10am TCC, Ballroom A

New World School of the Arts Wind Ensemble

Director: Brent Mounger

The New World School of the Arts Wind Ensemble is composed of the finest wind and percussion students in the Miami-Dade County Public School system and is guided by a philosophy that seeks to expose students to the highest quality of music in the wind repertoire. Students are exposed to a wide range of compositional techniques, rehearsal processes, and expressive possibilities that challenge and develop their individual musicianship. This diverse experience affords the members of the ensemble an opportunity to receive a comprehensive music education through a demanding and rigorous process of both rehearsal and performance.

Silver Lining

Lake Howell High School

Director: Elisael Serrano

Silver Lining is Lake Howell High School’s top SATB choir. The choir includes students in grades 9-12. Silver Lining has received superiors at district and state MPA. They received first place at the Atlanta Heritage Festival. Silver Lining has performed as Honor Choir for Disney’s Candlelight Processional. The students are passionate about music and fellowship through music. They strive to do everything with passion for a purpose to inspire!

LaVilla School of the Arts Chamber Orchestra

Director: Carol Maynard

The LaVilla School of the Arts Chamber Orchestra is the top performing ensemble of the LaVilla Orchestra Program. This ensemble consists of students who desire to excel at their craft and who possess the work ethic and motivation to achieve the great work that the orchestra sets out to accomplish each year. One of the goals of the Chamber Orchestra is to make a posi-

tive change in their sphere of influence through the best use of their gifts and talents. The students understand that connection through music is a vital element of this performance art. When performers demonstrate musical passion, along with high levels of technical and fundamental skill, they are in a position to enact positive change in the world around them. Even when live performances aren’t technically perfect, the connection between musicians, conductor, and audience is something to be valued and cherished. These young musicians encapsulate these values and traits and exceed the expectations of their director year after year.

FMEA concerts

Sponsored by FMEA

Thursday, January 9, 2025

6:30pm-7:30pm

TCC, Ballroom B

University of West Florida Singers

Director: Dr. Peter Steenblik

Coordinator: Melissa Nelson

The UWF Singers is the flagship choral ensemble at the University of West Florida. Founded in 1967 and situated in Pensacola, this undergraduate-only group consists of students from a wide variety of degree programs. Under the direction of Dr. Peter Steenblik, they have become known for choral excellence throughout Northwest Florida. The Dr. Grier Williams School of Music is proud to have a robust scholarship initiative benefitting students campus-wide, and offers the BM performance, BME music education with specializations, and the BA music and an outside field. The UWF Singers recently performed at the 2022 FLACDA Conference in Orlando and by invitation at the ACDA Southern Division Conference with the Mobile Symphony Orchestra. Additional collaborations include the Pensacola Opera, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, Choral Society of Pensacola, and the Pensacola Children’s Chorus.

8pm-10pm

TCC, Ballroom B

Voctave

Director: Jamey Ray; Coordinator: Melissa Nelson

Voctave will also perform during the First General Session.

Voctave is a dynamic 11-member a cappella group hailing from Central Florida, renowned for their intricate and captivating vocal arrangements. Founded in the winter of 2015 by esteemed producer and arranger Jamey Ray, Voctave brings together a rich tapestry of musical backgrounds including musical theater, contemporary Christian music, barbershop, pop, and choral music. The group’s members have performed globally and have contributed to numerous recordings, showcasing their versatile talent.

9:15pm-10:15pm

Marriott Water Street, Grand Ballroom

University of North Florida Wind Symphony

Director: Dr. Erin Bodnar

Coordinator: Maria Dix

The UNF Wind Symphony is composed of approximately 45 of the most outstanding woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians at the University of North Florida. Dedicated to promoting and performing the finest in contemporary wind literature, this ensemble has established a reputation for musical excellence. The UNF Wind Symphony performs with renowned guest artists, as well as premiers new works by leading composers. The UNF Wind Symphony maintains an active schedule including three concerts per semester, regional and international tours, and appearances at regional and international events. Past performances include the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles Conference in Buñol, Spain (2019), College Band Directors National Association Southern Division Conference (2014), Lincoln Center (2011), Carnegie Hall (2008), and the FMEA State Conference (2007). The UNF Wind Symphony’s first album, This Prismasonic Rock, released in December 2022, was GRAMMY® nomination eligible.

Friday, January 10, 2025

10:15am-1pm

Marriott Water Street, Florida Ballroom, Salons 1-3

Digital Music Showcase and Singer/Songwriter Festival

Director: Dr. Clinton Randles; Coordinators: Clinton Randles, Maria Dix

The Florida Music Education Association Digital Music Showcase is designed to encourage musical creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration by students in K-12 schools. Students submit their original compositions in the areas of Live Performance, Fixed Media, or Music With Video for the opportunity to have them presented at the Showcase/Festival.

FMEA Mini-concerts

Sponsored by FMEA

Thursday, January 9, 2025

TCC, Lobby Stage

1pm-1:30pm

USF Clarinet Ensemble

Director: Calvin Falwell; Coordinator: Christopher Bowen

The University of South Florida Clarinet Ensemble is composed of 24 graduate and undergraduate students from the University of South Florida School of Music and is directed by USF Assistant Professor of Clarinet Calvin Falwell and USF Adjunct Instructor of Clarinet Asher Carlson. The University of South Florida Clarinet Ensemble performs a wide variety of repertoire that spans from the standard literature for clarinet choir to contemporary premieres of new arrangements and commissioned works. Recent performances include the Central Florida Clarinet Day and appearances at the International Clarinet Association’s annual conference in 2023 and 2024.

3pm-3:30pm

Silver Sands Middle School Show Choir

Director: Taylor Gelb; Coordinator: Clinton LaFlam

The Silver Sands Show Choir is an auditioned ensemble made up of seventh and eighth graders at Silver Sands Middle School. The ensemble received straight superior ratings at the 2024 MPA and performs at Disney Springs every year through their Disney Imagination Campus program. The choir is a close-knit family that values its members sharing their voices through song and is focused on encouraging each other to be confident and inspiring leaders in everything they pursue. Its members are also encouraged to take other performing arts classes, which helps raise the musicianship of the ensemble. The Silver Sands Middle School Show Choir is made up of hardworking young musicians eager to share their voices with a larger audience!

5:15pm-5:45pm

Modern Music Ensemble

Director: Holly Cordero; Coordinator: Brandon Davis

The Ridgeview Global Studies Academy Modern Music Ensemble is a student collaboration between different instrumentalists and vocalists to create all original music in the popular music genre. Students practice songwriting skills as well as applying music history and technology to their compositions. Students have performed in the All-State Popular Music Collective as well as Battle of the Bands (2023 and 2024) and community festivals and events.

FMEA Mini-concerts

Sponsored by FMEA

Friday, January 10, 2025

TCC, Lobby Stage

11:30am-12noon

West Orange High School Percussion Ensemble

Director: Garth Steger; Coordinator: Clinton LaFlam

The West Orange High School Percussion Ensemble, under the direction of Mr. Garth Steger, is an approximately 40-member ensemble from Winter Garden, Florida. The percussion ensemble has performed a variety of literature from small chamber works to large percussion ensemble pieces and large transcriptions. The ensemble regularly attends district and state level solo and ensemble festivals where it has been awarded superior ratings. In addition to performing their own night of percussion, the West Orange Percussion ensemble has been asked to perform on multiple occasions at the UCF Percussion Festival, which is a part of UCF Celebrates the Arts in Steinmetz Hall.

3pm-3:30pm

Dr. Phillips High School Jazz Ensemble I

Director: Matthew Malhiot; Coordinator: Christopher Bowen

The Dr. Phillips High School Jazz Ensemble I is composed of the top musicians from Dr. Phillips High School, the Orange County Public Schools Visual and Performing Arts Magnet. Members of the Jazz Ensemble I have had the honor of performing at Disney and at various functions for Orange County Public Schools. The Jazz Program at Dr. Phillips High School boasts three jazz bands and a legacy of straight superior ratings at district and state MPAs. Many of their members have gone on to study jazz and tour with notable artists such as The Basie Band and Dave Weckl.

4:45pm-5:15pm

The Stetson University Trombone Choir

Director: Dr. Dunwoody Mirvil; Coordinator: Brandon Davis

The Stetson University Trombone Choir is composed of all trombone music majors and minors with selected non-majors. The ensemble immerses itself in various genres, ranging from music from the Renaissance period to military marches, jazz, orchestral, and fusion, to name a few. The group prepares at least two campus performances each semester and has occasionally been invited to perform off campus as well. In June 2013, the Stetson Trombone Choir was invited to perform two concerts at the prestigious International Trombone Association Festival, held at Columbus State University in Columbus, Georgia.

COLLEGE

FREE event open to all high school music students!

Thursday, January 9, 2025 — 5pm-7pm

Tampa Convention Center Exhibition Hall

PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGES FOR THIS YEAR:

College Night will be held on Thursday instead of Friday and in the Exhibition Hall instead of in a separate meeting room.

Free admission for students/parents/ attendees. Conference registration is not required.

NIGHT 2025

College Night is a college fair held in conjunction with the FMEA Professional Learning Conference and is open to all students regardless of whether they are participating in an all-state ensemble or registered for the conference.

Students and parents have the opportunity to meet with representatives from premier universities and colleges located in Florida and throughout the country.

EXHIBITORS:

Thursday, January 9, 2025, 5pm-7pm (subject to change)

Exhibition Hall at the Tampa Convention Center

Schools that are exhibiting for the entire conference can remain in their same booths within the first two aisles, labeled “Hall of Ivy.”

Schools that are coming in for College Night only will be provided temporary booths in those two aisles on Thursday evening. Booths will include a six-foot table and two chairs.

Free for conference exhibitors, $150 for other schools.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP

Sponsored by Student Leadership Committee

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

1pm-4:30pm

TCC, Ballroom A

Coordinators: Michael Antmann, Charlene Cannon

This workshop is designed for all high school student leaders who want to learn, thrive, and become the best leaders for their schools, peers, and themselves. Attendees will participate in active conversations and team-building activities while also discovering their personal strengths and needs to continue to grow on their leadership journey. Everyone will be engaged in a culture of inclusivity to see and hear all students while revealing the unique strengths and knowledge of our combined voices and experiences.

If you have high school students in an all-state ensemble, the Student Conference Experience, or the Tri-M Experience, their schedules will not conflict, so you are encouraged to also register them for this Leadership Workshop. All high school students are eligible.

The workshop cost is $50 per student, and chaperones are free. FMEA/NAfME members registered for the FMEA conference are also welcome to observe for free. Directors, register your students as part of your FMEA Conference Registration.

CLINICIANS

Robyn Hilger

Susan L. Smith

Robyn Hilger joined ACDA as executive director in September 2021. She is a seasoned nonprofit executive with a wealth of experience in administration, fundraising, and strategic innovation. The overarching theme of Robyn’s work is meeting the identified needs of historically marginalized communities. Robyn began her career as the band and strings teacher in Oklahoma’s largest urban school district. In 2006, she was recognized as Oklahoma’s State Teacher of the Year. In 2007, she joined the staff of the Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools as the chief programs officer. Robyn created two programs that received national attention and recognition for addressing unmet needs of urban teachers and students. In 2014, Robyn was named the executive director for El Sistema Oklahoma. El Sistema Oklahoma facilitates the development of empowered youth who use music to make strong positive change in their lives, their communities, and the world. Robyn’s service in key positions has helped her excel in fundraising and volunteer and donor relations. In 2017, she was named New Fundraiser of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Oklahoma City Chapter. Just prior to joining ACDA, she served as the director of community engagement for ReMerge of Oklahoma County. ReMerge is a leader in developing solutions in criminal justice reform for women facing felony convictions. Robyn also serves on the advisory board for Oklahoma Youth Orchestras and is a board member for Oklahoma Youth Sing! (formerly the Norman Children’s Chorus).

Susan L. Smith has taught general, choral, and instrumental music at the elementary through collegiate levels in Florida, Virginia, and Alabama and has served as an author, clinician, conductor, and adjudicator across the United States. She is the president of the Southern Division of the National Association for Music Education and was formerly an assistant professor of music education at Troy University. She is the past president of the Alabama Music Educators Association and the current faculty advisor for the Troy Collegiate NAfME chapter. Smith is the chair of the NAfME Collegiate Advisory Council and a member of the Professional Development Committee. Her previous appointment was director of bands at the Saint James School in Montgomery, Alabama. The Saint James Band consistently received superior ratings in concert, jazz, and marching band events including the Alabama Music Performance Assessment, Smoky Mountain Music Festival, and Bands of America Super Regional and Grand National Championships. Smith is the president/CEO of RWS Music Company, an educational music publisher created by her late husband, Robert W. Smith. Smith has presented clinics at many state, national, and regional NAfME conferences. She has presented at the Midwest Clinic multiple times and performed as a member of the Alabama Winds, an adult community band composed of Alabama music educators. As its first coordinator, Smith launched the Chamber Music National Festival at the Music for All National Festival, presented by Yamaha, and is a cofounder of the Mind the Gap webinar and podcast for young and preservice music educators. Her professional affiliations include Phi Beta Mu, the National Association for Music Education, Alabama Music Educators Association, Florida Music Education Association, Alabama Bandmasters Association, Sigma Alpha Iota, Phi Beta Kappa, and the National Band Association. Smith is in demand as a clinician, conductor, and adjudicator throughout the country. She has conducted honor bands in multiple states including University of Alabama Honor Band, Samford University Honor Band, Marshall University Honor Band, and Midfest at UGA, as well as district honor bands in Alabama, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, and Kentucky.

Student Experiences at the Conference

Jameyel “J. Dash ” Johnson

Keynote Speaker and One-on-One Interview With Fred Schiff, Florida Corporate Partners Chairman and NAMM Dealer of the Year

Jameyel “J. Dash” Johnson is a multi-platinum rapper, songwriter, music producer, engineer, and award-winning film composer. He also holds a degree in computer science from the University of Florida.

Although having already amassed an impressive collection of musical material over the years, J. Dash’s pulse-pounding dance sensation “WOP” is RIAA certified multi-platinum. He is the founder of SlapDash Productions, a boutique firm specializing in music production and sync licensing for TV and film. He moved to Austin in 2018 to help build the company Everlywell (now Everly Health).

DIRECTORS, STUDENTS, & CHAPERONES—

Join Jameyel “J. Dash” Johnson for Orchestrating Success: Careers in Music for Your Students

Thursday, January 9, 2025, 4:15 pm

TCC, Room 111

In today’s rapidly evolving social, commercial, and workforce landscape, the benefits of music education extend beyond the traditional performance and education career pathways. This session, presented in collaboration with the NAMM Foundation, features Jameyel “J. Dash” Johnson and other Florida Corporate Partners and music industry executives.

Currently, J. is a director of engineering with Everly Health, is on the board of directors of the Long Center for Performing Arts, the RISE Center for Liberation, and MOON Ultra Light, and is a national advocate for music education with the NAMM Foundation.

In addition to giving the keynote address for the FMEA Student Conference and Tri-M Experiences, J. will participate in a panel discussion on the many careers available in the music industry.

2025 FMEA Student Conference & Tri-M ExperiencES Schedule

Student Conference Experience students must be with chaperones at all times.

Events in bold are required.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025

9 am SCE Session: Opening Kick-Off Meeting With J. Dash! TCC, Room 417

10:30 am FMEA FIRST GENERAL SESSION

TCC, Ballroom A

11 am Lunch on your own/exhibits

1 pm Mini Concert: USF Clarinet Choir

3 pm SCE Session: Leadership and Advocacy

TCC, Room 417

Clinician: Michael Antmann

5 pm FMEA College Night

TCC, West Hall A

There are many great concerts on Thursday evening. We encourage you to attend at least one:

6:30 pm UWF Singers

9 pm Voctave

9:15 pm UNF Wind Ensemble

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2025

9 am FMEA SECOND GENERAL SESSION

TCC, Ballroom A

10:30 am SCE/Tri-M Session: Careers in the Arts

TCC, Room 417

11:30 am Lunch on your own/exhibits

2:45 pm

SCE/Tri-M Session: Conference Wrap-Up and the Way Forward!

Presenter: Charlene Cannon

TCC, Room 301

FLORIDA MUSIC EDUCATION

ASSOCIATION 2024-2025 DONORS

Thank you to all of the donors who have shown their dedication to the improvement of music education in Florida by supporting our Mission through financial contributions.

Our donors support specific causes by donating to the FMEA funds of their choice:

FMEA Scholarship Fund

Music Education Advocacy

General Fund June M. Hinckley Scholarship

Professional Development for Members

Mel & Sally Schiff Music Education Relief Fund

The following have graciously donated to FMEA from April 1, 2024, through November 4, 2024.

MAESTRO’S CIRCLE

$10,000 and up

No current donors at this time.

SUSTAINERS

$100 – $999

Carlos Abril

In Honor of Dr. Alice-Ann Darrow

Lucinda Balistreri

In Honor of Sarasota County Music Educators

Trent Brown

In Honor of J. Mark Scott

Dale Choate

In Honor of R. Wayne Bailey

Alice-Ann Darrow

In Memory of Mr. & Mrs. O.B. Darrow

Virginia Dickert

In Memory of Debbie Liles & Lindsay Keller

William Fredrickson

Marsha Juday

Steve & Beth Kelly

Sheila King

Jason Locker

In Memory of June M. Hinckley

Joseph Luechauer

ARTIST’S CIRCLE

$1,000 – $9,999

Frank Howes

In Memory of Vashti Jordan Howes

Louis Schiff

Deborah Mar

In Memory of Barbara Kingman

Carolyn Minear

In Memory of Alice Fague

John Nista

In Memory of Stanley Dmitrenko

Douglas Phillips

In Memory of Dr. Bobby Adams

David Pletincks

In Honor of My Children

Clinton Randles

Jeanne Reynolds

In Honor of Pinellas County Performing Arts Teachers

Mary Catherine Salo

In Memory of Gary Rivenbark & Wes Rainer

Kathleen Sanz

In Memory of June M. Hinckley

J. Mark Scott

In Honor of Jason Locker, Dr. André Thomas, Dr. Judy Bowers, & Dr. Judy Arthur

SUSTAINERS

D. Gregory Springer

Harry Spyker

In Honor of Fred & Marlene Miller

Jeannine Stemmer

In Memory of Barbara Kingman & Lauren Alonso

Leiland Theriot

In Memory of Clayton Krehbiel

Rebecca Traenkner

On Behalf of the Hillsborough County

Elementary Music Educators Council

Richard Uhler

PATRONS

$25 – $99

Sandra Adorno

Meghan Alfaro

Maria Athanasulis

Sasha Aufschneider

In Memory of Michael Aufschneider

William Bauer

In Honor of My Colleagues, Present & Past

David Bayardelle

In Dedication to Dr. George Sparks

Kasia Bugaj

Greg Carswell

William Castillo

Jeff Cayer

Zachary Chowning

Dayna Cole

In Memory of Linda Mann

Edward Doyle

Debbie Fahmie

Anne Fennell

Bradley Franks

In Memory of Gary W. Rivenbark

FRIENDS

up to $24

Bryan Alspach

Crystal Berner

Laurie Bitters

Ernesta Chicklowski

On Behalf of Roosevelt Elementary Musicians

Jennifer Corzine

Christopher Dunn

Tina Gill

In Memory of Gary Rivenbark

Angela Hartvigsen

Peter Waidelich

Howard Weinstein

In Memory of Barry Weinstein

Kenneth Williams

Anonymous (1)

In Memory of Claude Dobbins

Anna Marie Friars

In Honor of Dr. Clifford Madsen

Dakeyan Graham

Rebecca Hammac

Amanda Hauta

Cynthia Heidel

Marsha Kindall-Smith

Christine Lapka

Craig Lilly

David Martinez-Cooley

Amelita McGrath

Katie McGuire Menges

Jessica Moore

In Honor of Dr. Nancy Barlar

Mark Morette

Harry Pardee

In Honor of Harry & Anne Pardee

Edward Prasse

Marie Radloff

In Memory of Charles F. Ulrey

Rudolf Radocy

Sean Rees

William Hazlett

Yangqian Hu

Ethan Hubbard

Jason Jerald

Kathleen Kerstetter

Lu Anne Leone

John Marshall

Matthew McCutchen

In Honor of Dr. John Carmichael

Anthony Moore

Diana Rollo

Thomas Silliman

In Honor of Dr. Tom Silliman, Sr.

John Southall

Kelly Southall

Eddie Steadman

Mark Stevens

In Honor of Dr. Clifford K. Madsen

Phil Tempkins

In Memory ofSue McCray

Valerie Terry

David Verdoni

Matthew Weihmuller

Sondra Wenninger Collins

Lindsey Williams

Anonymous (6)

In Honor of Columbia County Music Teachers

Ian Schwindt

Gary Smith

Andrea Szarowicz

Anonymous (12)

In Memory of Ernest O. Hebson

Component News

FLORIDA ORCHESTRA ASSOCIATION

Laurie Bitters President

Happy Holidays and Greetings From FOA

s we approach winter break, let’s celebrate the achievements we’ve made so far and look forward to an even brighter start to 2025. With the holidays right around the corner, we want to remind you to register for the 2025 FMEA Professional Learning Conference—a premier event that offers inspiring insights, powerful performances, and a chance to grow both professionally and personally. Don’t miss the early registration deadline on December 13!

This year, we’re thrilled to host some of the most celebrated all-state conductors, who are bringing their passion and expertise to our ensembles and students. Watching these renowned conductors guide our young musicians from their first rehearsal to their final performance is always one of the most rewarding parts of our conference. Our 2025 all-state conductors include:

w Bruce Walker (11-12 Symphonic Orchestra)

w Kalena Bovell (9-10 Concert Orchestra)

w Marguerite Richardson (9-12 Honors Orchestra)

w Bingiee Shiu (7-8 Middle School Orchestra)

w Nancy Beebe (7-8 Honors Orchestra)

Each conductor brings a unique style, and witnessing the transformation they foster in their students is an experience you won’t want to miss. Let’s come together to support these young musicians and marvel at their dedication and skill.

The conference isn’t just about performances; it’s about rejuvenation and inspiration! Our lineup of expert clinicians offers sessions that are bound to invigorate your teaching and spark

Help Us Support Music

new ideas. Get ready to explore creative approaches, develop new strategies, and bring back a renewed energy to your classroom. Some of this year’s distinguished session presenters include:

w Victoria Senko

w Jim Palmer

w Keith Dodson, Andrea Szarowicz, and Jennifer Zahn

w Mauricio Cespedes

w Tian Sanchez-Ballado

w Kasia Bugaj and Martha Placeres

w Steven Bossert

w Lewis Rosove

w Cherie Cseley and Holly Watters

w Raine Hollingsworth

Make time to connect with your fellow teachers! The insights and experiences shared in casual hallway conversations often become as valuable as the formal sessions. There is a remarkable power in connecting with colleagues who share your passion, and you’ll leave the conference feeling uplifted, valued, and proud to be a part of this vibrant community.

As we conclude the first half of this year, take pride in your accomplishments, both big and small. Have a safe and restful winter break, enjoy time with loved ones, and recharge for all that 2025 holds. We’re grateful to be part of such a dedicated community of music educators and are excited to see you at the conference!

FLORIDA ELEMENTARY MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION

Ashley Peek President

Season’s Greetings, FEMEA teachers!

This is undoubtedly one of my favorite seasons as a music educator and musician, with so many incredible winter performances to take part in or attend, and then our annual FMEA conference just around the corner! This is also one of our busiest seasons as musicians. While it can be easy to get bogged down in extra rehearsals, busy schedules, and more, I

encourage everyone to keep their sights on the musical joy that this season brings. We have the power to bring joy to so many listeners during this winter season!

Amidst the hustle and bustle of winter concert preparation, also be sure to get registered for our conference next month.

FLORIDA BANDMASTERS ASSOCIATION

Jeff Cayer, EdD President

It’s that magical time of year again—the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year”! December has arrived, wrapping us in its festive embrace with cool weather, sparkling Christmas lights, and the sweet sounds of carols drifting through the air. Families gather to share meals rich with tradition, laugh ter, and warmth, making memories that will last a lifetime. Yet, for us musicians, this season also means a whirlwind of rehearsals, parades, and performances that can sometimes overshadow our holiday cheer.

November issue, you won’t want to miss our two FEMEA headliners, Dena Byers (Peripole) and Katie Traxler (West Music). Thank you to Peripole and West Music for

But don’t let the hectic schedule dampen your spirit! Amidst the flurry of activities, remember to carve out moments for what truly matters: enjoying quality time with family and friends, indulging in delicious holiday treats, and reflecting on the year’s successes within your band program. This winter break is the perfect opportunity to recharge, celebrate your achievements, and appreciate the joy of music in your life.

As we look ahead, the Midwest Clinic is just around the corner, and I am excited to connect with many of you in the vibrant city of Chicago. This event is a treasure trove of inspiration, where we gather not only to attend insightful sessions and concerts but also to foster connections that enrich our professional lives. Don’t miss out on the chance to share experiences and ideas in the hallways and local eateries—these informal conversations can be just as enlightening as the

workshops will take place on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Keep your adjudication approval status up-to-date. Even if you’re not an adjudicator, I encourage you to join these workshops as a guest. It’s a valuable chance to learn about the adjudication process and gain insights that can benefit your teaching and performances.

The Florida Bandmasters Association (FBA) has an exciting lineup of sessions and concerts scheduled for the FMEA conference. Don’t forget to download the FMEA app and start bookmarking your favorite sessions and concerts. With so much to explore, you won’t want to miss a moment!

While December is undeniably magical, the January conference promises its own kind of wonder. Let’s make the most of this holiday season and the opportunities that lie ahead. I can’t wait to see you all there—let’s celebrate the joy of music together!

FLORIDA VOCAL ASSOCIATION

David Pletincks President

Sandy Lantz and Gretchen Wahlberg. “Hey, you all!

Come out and play! The black lights will shine as bright as day! Come with a whoop, come with a ball, come with a costume, a bow or shawl! Be ready to play and dance and sing. Our Thursday night will really swing!”

Sandy Lantz taught in Lee County, Florida, for over 35 years. She is a published composer with Eldridge Publishing and co-recipient of the 2002 Zornio Memorial Playwriting Award from the University of New Hampshire. In 2004, Sandy was the recipient of the FMEA Music Educator of the Year award. In 2007, Sandy became a national board certified teacher.

Gretchen Wahlberg taught elementary music in Lee County, Florida, for over 37 years. She has presented numerous workshops in Florida, New York, Georgia, and Texas. She won the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program in 1996. In 2006, Gretchen received the Lee County Music Teacher of the Year award and was a national board certified teacher.

Sandy and Gretchen have both served as presidents for the SW Florida Orff Chapter. They co-taught at the University of South Florida, Barry University, and Florida Gulf Coast University as adjunct professors. They have successfully co-taught Level I teacher training courses in Florida for over 20 years. They continue to present workshops at state and national conferences, as well as for Orff chapters all over the United States. Together they have published the books Drumming it UP, Creative Bits with Children’s Lit, S’More Bits with Children’s Lit, Strumming it UP, and Mixing it UP

I look forward to seeing everyone at our Thursday night FEMEA business meeting and “Playtime Thursday Night” with this dynamic duo!

Thesummer of 2024 saw the creation of the inaugural Florida Treble All-Stars Honor Chorus at the FVA Summer Professional Development Conference. What a thrill it was to open the conference with an exuberant group of 120 sixth-grade singers from 38 schools across 19 counties. Our guest clinician, Mary Biddlecombe, did a fabulous job conducting the honor chorus along with Dr. Judy Arthur as her collaborative pianist.

It was an inspiration to see students so excited about participating in an honor chorus during the summer when they could be doing so many other activities. The choir was selected by director nominations as opposed to the vocal audition process used for our all-state programs. Directors were able to nominate up to five treble singers finishing their sixth-grade year. We were able to accept each student that was nominated by their director, which was a wonderful way to kick off this annual chorus.

Now would be a great time for our middle school directors to begin thinking about the singers you will nominate for the 2025 Florida Treble All-Stars Honor Chorus. Even in the first quarter of the school year, we can recognize those students who absolutely love to sing and would thrive in an honor chorus like this. We plan to allow directors to nominate up to five students again, but we anticipate more participation this year after the attendees last summer saw the incredible experience the students had with Mary Biddlecombe.

Our clinician for the 2025 Florida Treble All-Stars Honor Chorus next summer will be the incomparable Evan Powers. Evan is currently a doctoral student at the University of North Texas after years as a stellar middle school director here in Florida. When asked if he would be interested in conducting the 2025 Treble All-Stars, his response was, “THE SIXTH-GRADE BABIES?” Anyone who has ever talked to Evan can immediately visualize the enthusiasm in that response. Our sixth graders will be in for an incredible treat spending the day with Evan Powers.

Information for the 2025 Florida Treble All-Stars will be available in the spring with a nomination deadline around mid-March. Our FVA president next summer will be David Verdoni, and he will undoubtedly have a fascinating conference planned for all of us. Also, if you missed the announcements, we will be convening again next summer at the Hilton in Altamonte Springs after a two-year hiatus at the Wyndham in Celebration. But first, we look forward to seeing you all in Tampa for the FMEA conference in January. Hope to see you all there!

FLORIDA NAfME COLLEGIATE

Mark A. Belfast, Jr., PhD Advisor

Homework for the Holidays!

Ihope you all had an absolutely wonderful time with friends and family during the Thanksgiving break. Congrats on making it to the end of the semester! With juries, end of semester concerts, and final exams right around the corner, I know this can be a stressful time. Hang in there! In the immortal words of Rob Schneider, “You can do it!” Before you know it, you’ll be back home, chillin’, and enjoying some much-needed down time. When you get there, be sure to call dibs on the home stereo and ensure your family listens to great holiday music during your stay! Teachers are always teaching, so now’s a great time for you to introduce your family to some tracks they may not already know. To get you started, I’m including QR codes for a playlist I’ve been curating for a few years. I hope you enjoy it!

While you’re listening to these sweet, sweet jams, be sure to download the FMEA mobile app (FMEA.org/conference/mobile-app/) and begin planning your time for January’s FMEA Professional Learning Conference. The full conference schedule is available on the app and the conference website (FMEA.org/conference/). Be sure to bookmark the sessions listed and add them to your calendar so you don’t forget about them. Those marked with an asterisk are sponsored by Florida NAfME Collegiate:

Wednesday January 8 7pm*

10:30am

Thursday January 9

5:30pm*

Friday January 10 9am

10:30am*

11:45am*

FMEA NAFME COLLEGIATE PRESIDENTS FORUM (TCC, 411). This is for chapter presidents and members of their executive boards.

FMEA FIRST GENERAL SESSION: Robyn Hilger, keynote speaker; performances by Voctave and the Rainbow Elementary Violin Club (TCC, Ballroom A)

FLORIDA NAFME COLLEGIATE GENERAL BUSINESS MEETING (TCC, 417)

FMEA SECOND GENERAL SESSION: Dr. Deb Confredo (president of NAfME), guest speaker; performances by Dr. Dale Rieth (piano) and the Volusia All-County Elementary STOMP Ensemble (TCC, Ballroom A)

Navigating Stress and the Path to Confidence (TCC, 107)

The Other Side: Logistical Planning for the New Ensemble Director! (TCC, 112)

12noon Research Poster Session (TCC, West Hall B)

2:45pm Meet the Supervisors (TCC, 417)

4pm School District Exhibit (TCC, 417)

Saturday January 11 10am*

FLORIDA NAFME COLLEGIATE BUSINESS MEETING (TCC, 417). This is when state executive board elections will take place.

There are LOTS of other FANTASTIC sessions planned throughout the week, so be sure to review the FULL conference schedule and map out how you’ll spend each day! Taking care of that before you get to Tampa will help ensure you make the best use of your time while you’re in town. So, this holiday season, while you’re watching Santa Paws for the eleventy-frillionth time, go ahead and finalize your plans for the FMEA Professional Learning Conference. I look forward to seeing you all there!

FLORIDA NAfME COLLEGIATE Megan Robichaud President

s the semester draws to a close, so does my time as president of Florida NAfME Collegiate. These past two years serving on the Executive Board have allowed me to meet so many wonderful people and make some amazing memories along the way. This is the last article I will write as president, and I would like to take some time to reflect on my experience.

It was just over a year ago that I wrote my first article, and I cannot believe how much has changed since then. Serving in this role has allowed me to gain friendships with collegiates across the state. One of the most wonderful things about FMEA and NAfME is the people. I have noticed that with experiences like this, it truly is the people who make or break it. In this case, it surely made it. All the memories, meetings, and conferences would be different if it weren’t for the kind and brilliant people who were part of them.

I have learned so much serving as president of Florida NAfME Collegiate. Serving on the FMEA Board of Directors has been an honor, and my eyes have been opened to all the immense work that happens behind the scenes. I have always viewed myself as a hard worker, but I don’t think I have ever worked as hard on anything as I did on Fall Conference. It absolutely could not have been accomplished without the work of Dr. Belfast and the rest of the Executive Board. I am so proud to have been part of such a wonderful team of people. Our efforts paid off with more than 100 registrants and 12 schools represented. As it was ending, I remember holding back tears; I felt relieved it was over, proud to have put it on with so many people smiling around us, and sad that everything we had worked toward for so long was coming to an end.

Serving as president is an experience I will hold dear for the rest of my life. As I write this, my senior recital is only four days away. I find myself not only reflecting on my time as president, but my entire collegiate career. I cannot believe this is my last semester on campus. Many of us are feeling this sense of finality, whether it is our last semester on campus or the last semester of our college career. Others are finishing up their first semester and feel like their time in college is just beginning. Let me tell you all—it will go by faster than you think, so be sure to make the most of it.

Thank you to everyone who gave me the opportunity and platform to lead this organization. It is a position I have held with pride, and I hope I have represented Florida NAfME Collegiate well.

Thank you for everything.

ResearchPuzzles FOR MUSIC TEACHERS

William I. Bauer, PhD FMEA Research Committee Chairperson, University of Florida

This on-going column seeks to stimulate awareness of research issues for FMEA teachers and researchers.

Music Creativity and Technology

Music teachers and researchers have long explored ways to integrate technology into K-12 music education to enhance student creativity. In a recent scoping review, Chi Kai Lam (2024) examined 17 studies published between 1987 and 2022, identifying the types of technological tools used, their impact on creativity, and existing research gaps. Scoping reviews are a type of literature review that maps key concepts and evidence within a field, systematically organizing and summarizing findings while highlighting areas for further study.

Background

Global educational trends underscore the value of technology in fostering creativity, a recognized educational priority due to its social and economic benefits. National curricula in countries like New Zealand, the UK, and Finland advocate for technology as a tool to enhance music creation in classrooms. However, research specifically examining the impact of technology on creativity within K-12 music education remains limited. Previous studies have primarily focused on broader educational contexts or interdisciplinary approaches like STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), leaving a gap in our understanding of how specific technologies can cultivate music-based creativity in young learners.

Purpose and Research Questions

The study’s primary goal was to assess the types of technological tools used in music education and examine how these tools enhance creativity in K-12 classrooms. The research questions were:

1. What technological tools are used to enhance students’ creativity?

2. How do these tools support students’ creative processes?

Methodology

Lam (2024) used Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) five-stage framework, an approach for conducting a scoping review to systematically map existing literature on a topic. This framework provides a clear structure for organizing the collection, analysis, and presentation of research findings. The five stages

are as follows:

1. Identifying the research question

2. Identifying relevant studies

3. Study selection

4. Charting the data

5. Collating, summarizing, and reporting results

Arksey and O’Malley’s framework makes scoping reviews a flexible tool for exploring and organizing knowledge in broad research areas, particularly useful for gaining a comprehensive overview rather than evaluating specific outcomes.

Lam (2024) conducted the review across seven databases, selecting peer-reviewed journal articles that examined the use of technology to support creativity in K-12 music education. The search included studies from 1987 to 2022 to capture a comprehensive historical perspective. After initial searches and subsequent screenings, 17 articles met the inclusion criteria.

Data Collection and Analysis

Data extraction was conducted using Covidence,1 an online platform that helps streamline the process of screening, extracting, and charting data. Data were categorized by the types of technological tools used and how these tools supported creativity, then analyzed and summarized in tables to identify trends.

Findings

Technological tools used in the studies were organized into eight categories: (a) sequencer software (loop-based composition and digital audio workstations), (b) music notation software, (c) virtual instruments, (d) audio mastering software, (e) audio reproducing software, (f) communication software, (g) programming software, and (h) interactive reflective music systems. Lam (2024) found that sequencer software (half of the studies used GarageBand for loop-based composition) was the most common tool for fostering creativity, followed by music notation software. These tools often enabled students to manipulate prerecorded musical samples, which proved useful for students without formal musical training.

To better understand how music teachers used these tools, Lam applied Lubart’s (2005) model that proposes four roles

technology may assume to support and enhance creative thinking and problem-solving.

w Computer as Nanny: This role is focused on ways that technology can provide a structured and supportive environment, managing the creative process by offering access to tools and resources that help users stay organized and maintain a creative mindset. Software such as GarageBand and Dance eJay were seen to create supportive environments, allow students to explore music freely, and promote engagement.

w Computer as Pen-Pal: Here, technology enables communication and collaboration by allowing users to share ideas, perspectives, and feedback with others, fostering diverse input and potential breakthroughs. Tools such as the ALSong platform allowed students to share compositions online, fostering peer interaction and feedback, which reinforced their roles as both creators and critics.

w Computer as Coach: When technology serves as a coach, it acts as an expert guide, providing tutorials, exercises, and feedback to enhance specific creative skills and cognitive processes. Certain software provided extensive databases of sounds and feedback features, helping students build compositions within a structured yet exploratory environment. For example, the audio feedback function of music notation software provided a means for students to evaluate their musical ideas in sound.

w Computer as Colleague: When technology functions as a colleague, it actively participates in the creative process, contributing to idea generation, evaluation, and refinement. Only one study examined this role, using an interactive system called the Continuator,2 which generated musical responses in real-time, encouraging students to collaboratively develop creative ideas.

These roles encompass technology’s capacity to monitor, facilitate, guide, and even collaborate with students in creative pursuits, providing a useful lens through which to assess technology’s contributions to creative learning in music.

Discussion and Implications

Lam (2024) highlights that technology provides an accessible environment for creativity, enabling even novice students to explore music composition and improvisation without requiring extensive musical knowledge. However, a significant gap remains in understanding the role of technology as an active creative partner, with limited studies examining how advanced technologies like AI might collaborate with students in generating new ideas.

For music educators, this review suggests several practical applications and areas for professional development.

Familiarity with loop-based software, for instance, can help teachers integrate accessible and flexible composition tools into their classrooms. Additionally, encouraging the use of technology as a communicative platform can help students share and receive feedback on their work, fostering a collaborative learning environment. The findings also point to the need for further research into tools that go beyond facilitation and actively contribute to the creative process. Educators might explore emerging AI-based technologies as partners in music creation, considering how such tools can serve as “colleagues” in composition.

Limitations and Future Research

The study’s limitations include its reliance on English-language, peer-reviewed journal articles, potentially omitting relevant research published in other languages or formats, like conference papers. Additionally, because most studies were qualitative, the findings are limited in their generalizability. Lam (2024) suggested that future research should employ mixed or quantitative methods to develop a more comprehensive understanding of how technology impacts creativity in diverse educational settings. Studies focusing on younger students (K-3) and students with special needs are also recommended to address gaps in current research.

In conclusion, Lam’s scoping review provides a valuable foundation for understanding technology’s role in fostering creativity in K-12 music education, offering insights into both effective practices and areas for further exploration. Music educators and researchers alike are encouraged to consider these findings in developing curricula and instructional strategies that harness the potential of technology to enhance creative learning.

References

Arksey, H., & O’Malley, L. (2005). Scoping studies: Towards a methodological framework. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8(1), 19–32. https://doi.org/10.1080/1364557032000119616

Lam, C. K. (2024). Technology-enhanced creativity in K-12 music education: A scoping review. International Journal of Music Education, 42(4), 691–703. https://doi.org/10.1177/02557614231194073

Lubart, T. (2005). How can computers be partners in the creative process: Classification and commentary on the Special Issue. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 63(4–5), 365–369. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhcs.2005.04.002

Endnotes

1. https://www.covidence.org

2. https://www.francoispachet.fr/continuator/

Email your questions and feedback to wbauer@ufl.edu with a subject heading Research Puzzles.

Committee Reports

Along with the rest of FMEA, your FMEA Awards Committee is excited to see you in January at our FMEA Professional Learning Conference! This year’s awards recognition at the Second General Session will shine a spotlight on our awardees, and you will have an opportunity to hear a short message directly from them. You will get a glimpse into the hearts and minds of the awardees regarding the value of music education and the role they play in assuring that all students, at all schools, receive quality and comprehensive

AWARDS COMMITTEE

Sondra A. W. Collins Chairperson

music education. And don’t forget to check out the digital FMEA Professional Learning Conference Program, as each awardee has a spotlight biography and photo, so you can get to know them better. I hope you are as excited as we are about celebrating our honorees. Your Awards Committee is also currently working hard to award those of you that have applied for the Music Education Service Awards and the Music Education Enrollment Awards—these awesome individuals will be announced in the conference program as well.

Please join me in applauding your 2025 FMEA Award winners!

2025 FMEA Awardees

ELEMENTARY MUSIC EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

Katie Grace Miller

Elementary Music Educator

Lake George Elementary School

Orange County Public Schools

Nominated by Christina Torrez

SECONDARY MUSIC EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

Mara Rose Bruce

Retired Secondary Music Educator

Fleming Island High School

Clay County District Schools

Nominated by Alexander Buck

COLLEGE MUSIC EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

Sandra Sanchez Adorno, PhD

LEADERSHIP AWARD FOR MUSIC EDUCATION

Benny L. Bolden, Jr., EdD

President, Florida School Music Association

Divisional Director of Secondary Schools

Leon County Schools

Past Principal, R. Frank Nims Middle School

Leon County Schools

Nominated by Andrew Thompson

EXEMPLARY MODEL MUSIC PROGRAM

Assistant Professor of Music Education and Area Coordinator of the Music Education Department

Florida International University

President, Florida College Music Education Association

Nominated by Jessica Gronberg on behalf of FEMEA

ELEMENTARY ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

Ricardo (Ricky) Grimaldo

Elementary Principal

Stephen Foster Elementary School

Broward County Public Schools

Nominated by Pauline Latorre on behalf of FEMEA

SECONDARY ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

Dennis Mayo

Secondary Principal

Marshall Middle Magnet IB World School

Hillsborough County Public Schools

Nominated by Dr. Jeffrey Cayer on behalf of FBA

Vocal Youth Miami (formerly The Children’s Voice Chorus)

Jamie Sutta, Executive Artistic Director, in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Nominated by Alicia Romero-Sardiñas

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE OF AN INDIVIDUAL IN MUSIC EDUCATION AWARD

Valeria Anderson

Director of Operations, FMEA

Director of Operations, Center for Fine Arts

Director of Operations, FAEA

Nominated by Jeanne Reynolds

Puckett’s Passion Project

by Cody Puckett

Season’s greetings, Florida music educators! As education becomes more in tune with diverse learners, we recognize more students with disabilities in our classrooms. Even though teaching a range of learners is a normal occurrence for most music educators, some are completely new to exceptionalities in their line of work. I am very excited to announce that FMEA’s Diverse Learners Committee is starting a new pilot of shared lesson plans, lesson designs, and ideas for working with your students with disabilities.

My name is Cody Puckett, and I am a part of FMEA’s Diverse Learners Committee. I serve as an adaptive elementary music teacher in Polk County where I teach students with mild to severe exceptionalities, and who are deaf and hard of hearing. I have over five years of experience training and working with our students with disabilities in a music classroom. Collaborating with our committee chair, Dr. Christine Lapka, we are creating a digital file on the FMEA members page to share your best and most effective lesson plan(s) to help or inspire music teachers who may need additional assistance for teaching our exceptional students.

In this pilot plan to share your work, we want to include submissions from music educators from across the state. From beginning to seasoned teachers, sharing can help educators at all levels. We are looking for anyone willing to post their most effective lesson plans for their students with disabilities. Teachers can upload their lesson plans and see other lesson ideas for creating plans for exceptional students in their classrooms. Shared folders will be based on students’ needs. For example, we will have folders titled “Supporting Students Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing” and “Supporting Students With Autism.” The folders will be on the FMEA membership page to help all music teachers learn and grow. Other folders will contain related information covering disabilities, IEP, 504, accommodations, modifications, and explanations for most of these legal documents.

We hope to support any educational staff member who is looking for answers or new ideas. As a lover of learning and growing as a teacher and student, I look forward to serving you as a committee member. It is our mission to help give your students the accessibility and accommodations that are needed within your classroom walls.

DIVERSE LEARNERS COMMITTEE

Christine Lapka, EdD Chairperson

You can email your lesson plans to us as we start building our files so we can submit everything to the FMEA’s website manager. We are here for you! We are accessible for you to reach us via our email or mobile number: Dr. Christine Lapka, christine. lapka@ucf.edu, (309) 224-1472; Cody Puckett, cody.puckett@ polk-fl.net, (407) 815-5741.

Again, we are here for you and to empower you in any capacity we can! We are excited to share this new pilot plan with you all.

Cody Puckett is in his fifth year of teaching at Horizons Elementary School in Davenport, Florida. He graduated with a BA in liberal arts studies in deaf education/ASL and music education from Flagler College and recently earned his MEd in special education from FGCU. He is a proud advocate for inclusive music education teaching for all students and their abilities.

Committee Reports

CONTEMPORARY MEDIA COMMITTEE

Clint Randles, PhD Chairperson

FMEA Crossover Festivals 2025

Teachers are welcome to bring their student bands to a festival experience that will celebrate their students’ achievements in the area of cover song and original song performance. Students will perform a 10-minute set of cover and original music and then have a 30-minute coaching session by a music teacher producer from the hosting institution. Students should plan on spending the day to hear other bands perform and experience the unique program of each host institution. There will be performances from university students, presentations from members of the music industry, and valuable Q&A sessions for how to make better music. All student performances will be professionally multitrack-recorded. At the end of each festival, two bands will be awarded the honor of having one of their original songs released on a special album following the festivals. Here is a link to the 2024 Festival Album: bit.ly/fmeaCrossover24

Site Locations

w Gainesville (Santa Fe College)—May 9, 2025

w Tallahassee (Florida State University)—May 17, 2025

w Tampa (University of South Florida)—May 22, 2025

General Guidelines

1. All Florida student bands in grades K-12 are eligible to participate. Students must, however, be nominated by an FMEA member teacher.

2. Students can enter one of three divisions: elementary (K-5), middle school (6-8), or high school (9-12).

3. This is a group festival. Groups can consist of as few as two or more individuals.

4. Each student can be involved in only one submission.

5. The submission deadline is 5pm EDT on March 21, 2025

Each group must submit a performance of:

1. A Cover Song. Cover songs are songs written and/or performed by an artist who is not the student(s) performing.

2. An Original Song. Original songs are songs written and/or performed by the songwriter(s) at the festival.

Submission Guidelines

w Submissions can include original compositions, mash-ups, partner songs, re-mixes, covers, etc. Live performance pieces must be no longer than four minutes in length.

w Submissions must include both a cover song and an original song. Performances can involve any single musical style or

combination of musical styles. While live performance compositions can include any combination of instruments and vocalists, they must prominently feature at least one digital instrument (computers, electric guitars, phones, electronic toys, tablets, synthesizers, midi controllers, microphones, electronic drums, loopers, etc.).

w The inclusion of other performing arts, such as movement, dance, theater, poetry, and visual art, is encouraged.

Submission Process

FMEA member teachers may nominate as many students and/ or student groups as they wish. Each nomination must include the following:

w A video recording of a live performance of the two full pieces.

• The video should be uploaded to a video-sharing site such as YouTube, Vimeo, TeacherTube, or the composer’s or school’s/teacher’s website. Make sure it’s set so that anyone with the link can view the video. For example, in YouTube, this would be “Unlisted” but not private, and in Google Drive the sharing settings should be “anyone with the link” can view. The online application will ask for the link/URL.

• If submitting an audio recording, it should be an mp3 file. The application will ask you to upload it.

w The online application will ask for composer name(s) and email(s), school name(s), year(s) in school, composition title, duration, listing of instrumentation and equipment used, an analysis of the piece’s form, one or two paragraphs describing the compositional/creative process, a listing of student performers that includes name, email, school name, year in school, and type of participation in the composition for each student, and links to uploaded video/audio files.

The submission deadline is 5pm EDT on March 21, 2025. Only applications completed by this time will be considered. Students whose works are selected for performance will be notified by March 28 and will be expected to attend the event.

Download the Crossover Music Festival application at FMEA.org/programs/crossover-festivals/.

Hello, secondary general music teachers of Florida! We are excited to announce that FMEA will again be offering festival opportunities for steel pan and guitar programs in 2025. Here are some details:

Please mark your calendars for Saturday, April 12, 2025, for the FMEA Steel Drum Ensemble Festival. It will be held at the Blankner K-8 School in Orlando, and the clinician will be Tom Miller, adjunct professor of steel drums at the University of Denver. Participating ensembles will have a 30-minute time slot to perform a tune or two and then receive feedback from the clinician. Additional details and links to the registration for this event can be found at FMEA.org/ programs/steel-band-festival/. Please reach out to Dr. Jared Allen via the “contact us” page should you need additional information.

At the time of writing this article, there are four FMEA Guitar Ensemble Festivals scheduled for 2025. Here are the dates, locations, and local festival coordinators:

University High School

Orlando

Chris Perez

Saturday, February 15, 2025

Leon High School

Tallahassee

Ed Prasse

Thursday, February 27, 2025

West Port High School

Ocala

Jeremy Shepard

Saturday, March 8, 2025

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers

Kayla Lisa

Saturday, April 5, 2025

These are dual opportunity events offering both a large ensemble experience and a solo and small ensemble category on the same day. Participating schools can enter ensembles for a 30-minute stage experience where they will play one or two selections and then receive feedback from the clinicians for the remaining minutes. On the same day and location, your students can also play a solo or perform in a small ensemble for a clinician in

SECONDARY GENERAL MUSIC COMMITTEE

Ed Prasse Chairperson

eight- to ten-minute intervals. Comment sheets will be provided in lieu of ratings. Additional lectures and masterclasses or performances might be scheduled at each site as well. Please see FMEA.org/programs/guitar/ for additional information and online registration. You may reach out to the individual site coordinators listed above or contact me at prasse@aol.com if you have questions.

MULTICULTURAL NETWORK COMMITTEE

Arnekua Jackson, PhD

Incorporating Diversity in Holiday Concerts Through Inclusive Selections

Season’sgreetings! As music educators, we have a powerful opportunity and responsibility to embrace diversity in our holiday music selections, especially when we consider the rich multicultural backgrounds of our students. Holiday music can be an extraordinary way to introduce students to new perspectives, traditions, and sounds. By thoughtfully choosing pieces that celebrate a variety of cultural and religious traditions, we not only broaden their musical horizons but foster a spirit of inclusivity and respect.

The holiday season offers an ideal opportunity for teaching students that music is more than notes and rhythms; it is a medium that captures and shares the essence of diverse cultural celebrations. Holiday music can serve as a comforting way to reflect on traditions, but it can also reinforce limited perspectives if we don’t introduce students to new experiences. The beauty of holiday music lies in its universality and open invitation to explore the diverse ways communities worldwide express gratitude, joy, and reflection.

When we expand our holiday music programs, we promote global awareness and empathy. Students may be familiar with traditional Christmas songs, but how many have sung a Kwanzaa celebration song or experienced the peaceful beauty of a Hanukkah melody? Exposing them to a wide range of holiday music enhances their understanding of the world, celebrating the unique contributions of every culture while underscoring the values that bind us together.

ExecutiveDirector’sNotes

The mission of The Florida Music Education Association is to promote quality, comprehensive music education for all Florida students as a part of their complete education.

FMEA Executive Director

Kathleen D. Sanz, PhD

Promoting Music Education for ALL Florida Students

The Florida Music Education Association (FMEA) is continuing the initiative “Teach Music Florida.” This initiative is designed to promote music teacher recruitment and retention for students in the state of Florida. We believe that teaching in Florida provides an opportunity for students to excel as musicians, teachers, and creative music industry leaders.

FMEA works with national associations including the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), the National Music Merchants Association (NAMM), and the National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) to promote music education. FMEA looks forward to engaging with like-minded associations and partners to embrace the future of music education in the state. Continue to access the FMEA website to engage with FMEA leaders and members to assist in this initiative.

anytime up until 30 minutes after the start time of the concert. Tickets will be emailed to the purchaser and can be printed or stored on their phone. The barcode will be scanned at the door to validate the ticket’s authenticity and gain entrance to the concert.

Advocacy and Government Relations

The election is over, and now the work begins! Our task is to hold our elected officials account able for adequately funding and supporting education generally and music education specifically. First things first. Send a congratulatory letter to all of your newly elected legis lators, school board members, and superintendents. The speaker of the House and the president of the Senate will determine the legislative leadership, committees, and committee chairs. FMEA will post the committees on the website once they have been determined. We need to work together to continue to build strong relationships with our representatives and senators. Plan talking points and elevator speeches to relay the importance of music education for Florida students.

2025 FMEA Professional Learning Conference Music Education Begins with ME

Early registration is open for the 2025 FMEA Professional Learning Conference Music Education Begins with ME at FMEA.org/conference/. NOTE: The deadline for early registration ends at midnight on December 13, 2024. Be sure to watch the FMEA website to take advantage of this excellent conference in Tampa on January 8-11, 2025, at the Tampa Convention Center. FMEA leadership and staff are looking forward to seeing everyone in January.

REMINDER: All-state concert tickets are sold online. Directors no longer need to pre-order all-state concert tickets for their students’ family members or friends who will be attending their concerts. Tickets can be purchased

2025 Florida Legislative Session

The 2025 Legislative Session will begin on March 4, 2025, and is scheduled to end on May 2, 2025. The Florida Music Education Association, the Florida School Music Association (FSMA), and the Florida Art Education Association (FAEA) are collaborating on the development of the Center for Fine Arts Education 2025 Legislative Platform. Please review the platform on the FMEA website in January. If you have questions about the bills as they move through the process, please call Dr. Kathleen Sanz at the FMEA office. It is so important for you to be

involved personally in helping legislators make good decisions for Florida students in general and for music students in particular.

Time to Vote for FMEA and FMEA Component Leadership

There are several very important FMEA elections: president-elect for the remainder of the 2024-2025 election cycle and president-elect for the 2025-2027 FMEA Board of Directors. The component president-elect for FEMEA, FMSA, FOA, and FVA will be elected during the 2025 FMEA Professional Learning Conference.

Health and Wellness

As I mentioned last year at this time, your physical health and wellness are so very important. While oftentimes we are aware of and are reminded of the need to eat healthfully, exercise, and maintain good mental health and vocal health, how often do we think about the importance of protecting our hearing? October was National Protect Your Hearing Month. We are now in December and football marching season has typically come to an end, but that’s not the end of potential harm to our hearing. Acoustics in our music rehearsal spaces is not always adequate for healthy hearing. Make it one of your New Year’s resolutions to protect your hearing. There are many earplugs available today that can assist us in preventing hearing loss. The best way to prevent hearing loss is by protecting your hearing, and this includes early identification and intervention. Make an appointment today to have your hearing checked.

FMEA leadership and staff are looking forward to seeing you in January at the FMEA Professional Learning Conference and All-State Concerts.

See you at the conference,

Kathleen D. Sanz, PhD

2024-25 FMEA MEMBERSHIP: You are eligible for membership in the Florida Music Education Association if you are an individual engaged in the teaching, supervision, or administration of music in elementary and secondary schools, colleges, or universities within the state. Visit FMEA.org/membership to learn more about the benefits of active membership.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Direct correspondence regarding subscriptions to: Hinckley Center for Fine Arts Education, 402 Office Plaza, Tallahassee, FL, 32301-2757. Subscription cost included in FMEA membership dues ($9); libraries, educational institutions, and all others within the United States: $27 plus 7.5% sales tax.

CIRCULATION: The circulation of the Florida Music Director is 4,500 educators. Published eight times annually by The Florida Music Education Association, Hinckley Center for Fine Arts Education: 402 Office Plaza, Tallahassee, FL 323012757. FMEA reserves the right to approve any application for appearance and to edit all materials proposed for distribution. Permission is granted to all FMEA members to reprint articles from the Florida Music Director for non-commercial, educational purposes. Non-members may request permission from the FMEA office.

SUBMISSIONS: Article and art submissions are always considered and should be submitted on or before the 1st of the month, one month prior to the publication issue to: Kelly Miller, DMA, kelly.miller@ucf.edu.

All articles must be provided in digital format (e.g., Microsoft Word). All applicable fonts and images must be provided. Images must be at least 300 dpi resolution at 100% of the size. All submissions must be accompanied by a proof (color, if applicable). Ads may be submitted via email to val@fmea.org

Advertiser Index

The Florida Music Director is made possible by the participation of the following businesses whose advertisements appear in this issue. They make it possible to provide you with a high-quality publication, and we gratefully acknowledge their support of our mission. We hope you will take special notice of these advertisements and consider the products and services offered. It is another important way you can support your professional association and the enhancement of Florida music education.

The publisher does not endorse any particular company, product, or service. The Florida Music Education Association (FMEA) is not responsible for the content of any advertisement and reserves the right to accept or refuse any advertisement submitted for publication. Information for advertisers (rate card, insertion orders, graphics requirements, etc.) can be found at FMEAMediaKit.org Florida Music Director reserves the right to refuse any ad not prepared to the correct specifications OR to rework the ad as needed with fees applied.

ADVERTISERS

Music Is Elementary 18 University of Florida BC William Carey University 6

Advertisers indicated in bold provide additional support to FMEA members through membership in the Florida Corporate and Academic Partners program. These partners deserve your special recognition and attention.

Please take time to thank and support our 2024-2025 Academic Partners.

GOLD PARTNERS

BRONZE PARTNERS

Florida Gulf Coast University University of North Texas

Partners as of November 4, 2024. *Please visit FMEA.org/partners for partnership details or call 850-878-6844.

FLORIDA MUSIC EDUCATION ASSOCIATION

Officers and Directors

EXECUTIVE

BOARD

President Jason P. Locker

Orange County Public Schools

445 W. Amelia St.; Orlando, FL 32801 (407) 317-3200; jasonlocker@fmea.org

Past President

Shelby R. Chipman, PhD

Florida A&M University, Department of Music Foster-Tanner Music Bldg., Room 318 Tallahassee, FL 32307; (850) 599-8165 shelby.chipman@famu.edu

President-Elect

Harry “Skip” Pardee Collier County Public Schools 5775 Osceola Trail; Naples, FL 34109-0919 (239) 377-0087; pardeh@collierschools.com

FBA President Jeff Cayer, EdD president@fba.flmusiced.org

FCMEA President Sandra Sanchez Adorno, PhD

Florida International University 10910 SW 17 St.; Miami, FL 33199 sadorno@fiu.edu

FEMEA President Ashley Peek

Holley-Navarre Intermediate 1936 Navarre School Rd.; Navarre, FL 32566-7504 ashley@femea.flmusiced.org

Florida NAfME Collegiate President Megan Robichaud University of North Florida n01492523@unf.edu

Florida NAfME Collegiate Advisor

Mark A. Belfast, Jr., PhD Florida State University mbelfast@fsu.edu

FMSA President Christopher Burns, PhD School District of Osceola County (407) 870-4901; christopher.burns@ osceolaschools.net

FOA President Laurie Bitters

Winter Park High School

2100 Summerfield Rd.; Winter Park, FL 32792 (407) 622-3200; laurie.bitters@gmail.com

FVA President David Pletincks

Powell Middle School

4100 Barclay Ave.; Brooksville, FL 34609-0860 (352) 403-8437; david@fva.net

Member-at-Large

Steven N. Kelly, PhD

Florida State University

School of Music, KMU 330; Tallahassee, FL 32306 (850) 644-4069; skelly@fsu.edu

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Historian/Parliamentarian &

Executive Director ................................................. Kathleen D. Sanz, PhD

Hinckley Center for Fine Arts Education 402 Office Plaza Dr.; Tallahassee, FL 32301-2757 (850) 878-6844; Fax: (850) 942-1793; kdsanz@fmea.org

Editor-in-Chief Kelly Miller, DMA

University of Central Florida; 12488 Centaurus Blvd.; Orlando, FL 32816-8009 (407) 823-4545; kelly.miller@ucf.edu

Conference Planning Committee Chairperson John K. Southall, PhD Indian River State College; 3209 Virginia Ave.; Fort Pierce, FL 34981 (772) 418-9133; johnsouthall@me.com

FSMA President Benny L. Bolden, Jr., EdD laruemusic99@gmail.com

Hall of Fame Chairperson Mary Palmer, EdD (407) 252-5172; mpalmerassoc@aol.com

FMEA COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

Advocacy Jeanne W. Reynolds (727) 744-7252; jeannewrey@gmail.com

Awards Sondra A. W. Collins sondra.collins@marion.k12.fl.us

Budget/Finance, Development

Jason P. Locker

Orange County Public Schools; 445 W. Amelia St.; Orlando, FL 32801 (407) 317-3200; jasonlocker@fmea.org

Contemporary Media

Clint Randles, PhD University of South Florida; 4202 E. Fowler Ave.; Tampa, FL 33620-9951 (813) 974-2311; randlesc@usf.edu

Diverse Learners

Christine Lapka, EdD University of Central Florida; 12488 Centaurus Blvd.; Orlando, FL 32816-2372; christine.lapka@ucf.edu

Emerging Leaders Dakeyan C. Graham, PhD, EdD, DMA Alachua County Public Schools; 3600 NE 15th St.; Gainesville, FL 32609 dregraham@gmail.com

Florida Corporate & Academic Partners

Fred Schiff All County Music; 8136 N. University Dr.; Tamarac, FL 33321-1708 (954) 722-3424; fred@allcountymusic.com

Health & Wellness

Aaron Kass Lake Nona High School; 12500 Narcoossee Rd.; Orlando, FL 32832-6922 (407) 956-8327; aaron.kass@ocps.net

Multicultural Network

Arnekua Jackson, PhD Boynton Beach Community High School; 4975 Park Ridge Blvd.; Boynton Beach, FL 33426-8318 (561) 713-6851; arnekua.jackson@palmbeachschools.org

Professional Learning ...........................................................Ajori Spencer Pinellas District Office; 301 4th St. SW; Largo, FL 33770-3536 (727) 588-6055; spencera@pcsb.org

Research

William I. Bauer, PhD University of Florida; (352) 273-3182; wbauer@ufl.edu

Secondary General Music

Ed Prasse Leon High School; 550 E. Tennessee St.; Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 617-5700; prassee@leonschools.net

Student Engagement

Michael Antmann, EdD Freedom High School; 2500 W. Taft-Vineland Rd.; Orlando, FL 32837 (407) 816-5600; michael.antmann@ocps.net

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE

Exhibits Manager fmeaexhibits@fmea.org

Local Chairperson Jon Sever (813) 272-4861; jon.sever@sdhc.k12.fl.us

FLORIDA BANDMASTERS ASSOCIATION

President Jeff Cayer, EdD president@fba.flmusiced.org

Past President Bernard (Bernie) Hendricks, Jr. Ocoee High School; 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Pkwy.; Ocoee, FL 34761 bernard.hendricks@ocps.net

Executive Director .................................................................. Neil Jenkins Florida Bandmasters Association P.O. Box 840135; Pembroke Pines, FL 33084 (954) 432-4111; Fax: (954) 432-4909; exec@fba.flmusiced.org Business Manager Jo Hagan, CPA 8975 San Rae Rd.; Jacksonville, FL 32257 (904) 379-2245; Fax: (904) 379-2260; jo@barefootaccounting.com

FLORIDA COLLEGE MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION

President Sandra Sanchez Adorno, PhD Florida International University; 10910 SW 17 St.; Miami, FL 33199 sadorno@fiu.edu

Past President Marc Decker, DMA Florida Atlantic University; 777 Glades Rd.; Boca Raton, FL 33431 deckerm@fau.edu

FLORIDA NAFME COLLEGIATE

President Megan Robichaud University of North Florida; n01492523@unf.edu

Past President ................................................................. Colin Urbina University of Central Florida; co006947@ucf.edu

FLORIDA ELEMENTARY MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION

President................................................................................. Ashley Peek Holley-Navarre Intermediate; 1936 Navarre School Rd.; Navarre, FL 32566-7504; ashley@femea.flmusiced.org

Past President Joani Slawson Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy; 1720 Peachtree St.; Melbourne, FL 32901 joanislawson@gmail.com

Executive Director Jennifer Sullivan 1750 Common Way Rd., Orlando, FL 32814 (321) 624-5433; slljenn@aol.com

FLORIDA MUSIC SUPERVISION ASSOCIATION

President Christopher Burns, PhD School District of Osceola County (407) 870-4901; christopher.burns@osceolaschools.net

Past President Lindsey R. Williams, PhD Seminole County Public Schools (407) 320-0434; willialz2@scps.k12.fl.us

FLORIDA ORCHESTRA ASSOCIATION

President............................................................................. Laurie Bitters Winter Park High School; 2100 Summerfield Rd.; Winter Park, FL 32792 (407) 622-3200; laurie.bitters@gmail.com

Past President Matthew L. Davis Harrison School of the Arts; 750 Hollingsworth Rd.; Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 393-4232

Executive Director Cheri A. Sleeper 1915 S. 47th St.; Tampa, FL 33619 (813) 363-4139; csleeper@myfoa.org

FLORIDA VOCAL ASSOCIATION

President David Pletincks Powell Middle School; 4100 Barclay Ave.; Brooksville, FL 34609-0860 (352) 403-8437; david@fva.net

Past President Jeannine Stemmer Florida Christian School, 4200 SW 89th Ave.; Miami, FL 33165 j9stemmer@floridachristian.org

Executive Director Michael Dye 231 S. Bayshore Dr.; Valparaiso, FL 32580 (850) 217-7419; mike@fva.net

Business Manager Jo Hagan, CPA 8975 San Rae Rd.; Jacksonville, FL 32257 (904) 379-2245; Fax: (904) 379-2260; business@fva.net

CENTER FOR FINE ARTS EDUCATION

402 Office Plaza Dr.; Tallahassee, FL 32301-2757 (850) 878-6844; Fax: (850) 942-1793

Executive Director Kathleen D. Sanz, PhD (kdsanz@fmea.org)

Director of Operations Valeria Anderson, IOM (val@fmea.org)

Technology Director Josh Bula, PhD (josh@fmea.org)

Marketing & Membership Coordinator Jasmine VanWeelden (jasmine@fmea.org)

Administrative Assistant Siena Deaton (siena@fmea.org)