Texas Sings Fall 2019

TEXAS SINGS!

Volume 36 Number 2

Official Publication of the Texas Choral Directors Association

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

Fall 2019

TCDA Board of Directors announces exciting changes

Randy Hooper

Thomas Rinn

Clinton Hardy

Pauline Sexton

Katy Flowers

Robert Stovall

NTS: UPCOMING EVE nce Winter Confere January 3, 2020

Ecumenical Men’s Chorus 20 February 22, 20 n TCDA Conventio 20 July 23-25, 20

Eric Cooley

Pam Elrod Huffman

Sharon Lutz

TEXAS SINGS!

Volume 36 • Number 2

Attention TCDA Members EVENTS IN 2020 Winter Conference - January 3 (Houston) Ecumenical Men’s Chorus February 22 (Fort Worth) High School Student Leadership Days (Summer) TCDA Convention - July 23-25 (San Antonio)

Fall 2019

Table Of Contents Past, Present and Future........................................................................ page 2 Greetings from the President - by Thomas Rinn A Special Thanks To Our 2019 Scholarship Donors............................... page 4 2019 TCDA Student Scholarships......................................................... page 5 Leaving a Lasting Legacy: Creating a Named Scholarship Towards an Endowment...................................................................................... page 6 Announcing TCDA Partnerships........................................................... page 7 In Memoriam....................................................................................... page 7 2019 TCDA Awards............................................................................. page 8

NEW PARTNERSHIPS Ludus Ticketing SightReadingFactory.com

WATCH FOR

Composer Spotlight 2019: A Big Texas Welcome to Dr. Alec Schumacker

by Beverly Schlegel............................................................................... page 10 Mother/Daughter Duo Share 2019 Convention.................................... page 11

by Beverly Schlegel

MS/JH Honor Choir now MS/JH All-State Choir New TCDA Regional Representatives New Member System Roll-out in November Redesigned website and new ways to connect via

Make Plans Now - TCDA Winter Conference........................................ page 11

Texas Choral Directors Association

TCDA Announces Regional Representatives......................................... page 16

@TexasSings

Inspiration and Education at TCDA High School Student Leadership Day

by Mindy Bersalona.............................................................................. page 17

@TexasSings

TCDA Membership Year: January 1 - December 31 The Benefits of TCDA Membership...................................................... page 12 TCDA News......................................................................................... page 13 Exciting Changes Planned For TCDA All-State and Honor Choirs ............ page 15

by Katy Flowers and Clinton Hardy

Ecumenical Men’s Chorus.................................................................... page 18 DON’T FORGET Renew membership in early December 50% convention discount for first-year teachers

Featured Clinicians for 2020 TCDA Convention.................................... page 19 Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities.......................................... page 19 Many Thanks To Our Exhibitors............................................................ page 19 Memories from the 2019 Convention.................................................. page 20

TEXAS SINGS! Editor: Beverly Schlegel Layout and Design: Mary Byrd Official Publication of the Texas Choral Directors Association 7900 Centre Park Drive, Suite A • Austin, TX 78754 • 512-474-2801 • www.tcda.net 2019 Texas Choral Directors Association No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the Executive Director. TCDA is an affiliate of ACDA. TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

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Past, Present and Future

by Thomas Rinn, President Since the founding of the organization in 1955, the Texas Choral Directors Association has diligently focused on its mission to support and foster the success of Texas choral directors and music teachers and to instill a love of music in every Texas school, church, and community singer. The centerpiece of this mission has long been what our bylaws refer to as the “Summer New Music Reading Clinic” held in San Antonio every year since 1957. This reading clinic has evolved into one of the largest choral conventions in the United States providing not only new music reading sessions, but also opportunities for professional learning, honor choir events for students, performances by both community and professional choral ensembles, and unique opportunities to create strong bonds among choral colleagues statewide. Over the past several years we have communicated many times about the board’s vision for the future of TCDA and continuously underscored the evolving nature of both the convention and the organization.

As we continue our focus on the future of TCDA, I’d like to share with you part of that vision, some of the things the board has done in recent years to enact that vision, and some of the reasons why these decisions have been made.

What is the stimulus for many of the changes at the Summer Convention?

Frankly, the answer to this question is simple - economics. Consider the price increases on your travel to the summer convention.

Reflecting through my personal finances I can recall recently when convention hotel rates were about $100 per night, round-trip flights from almost anywhere in the state to San Antonio were around $100, parking in downtown was $7-10 per night, and $10-15 dollars could buy a reasonable meal on the Riverwalk. All of these items have at least doubled for me personally over the last ten years. Apply this to TCDA and you must also consider the growth of San Antonio and the Convention Center (now one of the most in-demand convention centers in the United States) and you can imagine the cost increases the organization has seen. In addition, the TCDA convention has long been primarily supported through proceeds from our exhibit hall; however, the current economic climate and the evolving online merchant environment continues to take a toll on revenue from this source. It is easy to understand that in a climate of rising expenses and decreasing income there is a point at which these lines intersect. While TCDA is not in immediate danger, several years ago the board realized that the organization could not be sustained if current trends continued. Thus, the current board and previous boards have been diligently working to address these items in the following ways:

Cutting Expenses We are constantly reviewing the expenses of TCDA with the goal of running the organization as frugally as possible. Most of these cuts have been behind the scenes, enacting strict financial policies for board expenses, meeting via video conferencing if possible, and moving board meetings to more economical locations. Some changes have been more visible including: • Changing the Texas Sings! publication from a bi-annual to an annual, digital magazine produced each Fall, yielding slightly over $10,000 in cost savings for 2019.

• Moving the Soiree to the Convention center from the Marriot - saving the organization $10,075 in 2019.

Creating New Revenue Sources As there is a limit to expenses that can be cut­, while still providing the services that our members are accustomed to, we are aggressively working to create new revenue sources for the organization. The Board of Directors met in a specially called meeting in early 2019 for the sole purpose of brainstorming and planning for future revenue sources, and we continue to set aside a specific time to work on this critical issue. Some of the results of our work our members have already seen, including: • The first TCDA Winter Conference was held in Fort Worth in 2019. We anticipate the continued growth of this event at the 2020 Conference in Houston.

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TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

• Continued expansion and development of the High School Student Day program (now the TCDA High School Student Leadership Day) in satellite locations around the state.

• Expansion and reorganization of the TCDA Honor Choirs to now include a yearly TCDA MS/JH All-State Choir in addition to the Elementary Honor Choir.

Maintaining Current Membership and Attracting New Members

Thomas Rinn

Grapevine-Colleyville

• Continued reorganization of the Summer Convention to contain as much variety and content as possible, increasing its value, and hopefully attracting more attendees.

• Adding regional events to target each division. Current offerings now include the Winter Conference (MS and HS), Ecumenical Men’s Day (Church), and High School Student Leadership Day (HS) with more in development.

• Building partnerships with vendors to benefit our membership. New partnerships include Ludus Ticketing and Sight Reading Factory.

The changes made thus far have made a significant impact on the TCDA budget. We have experienced losses over the past several years, and were prepared for a budget deficit in 2019; however, we now project that the 2019 budget year will end in the black. While this is terrific news, our work is not done. We will continue to experience increasing costs in future years and we must, therefore, continue to evaluate programs and offerings as we work to ensure that TCDA Is sustainable for future generations.

In the coming weeks, you will see some significant changes in TCDA. Most notably will be our move to a new software system that will manage our membership database, registration, and website. We expect the new system to be more cost-effective and user-friendly for our membership.

The new website will also provide new opportunities to communicate and interact with the membership. We are also working on an overhaul of TCDA’s social media outlets. Expect to see a new presence from TCDA on the following platforms:

PRESIDENT

Randy Hooper

Pauline Sexton

Texas A&M University-Commerce

Grapevine-Colleyville

COLLEGE/COMMUNITY

HIGH SCHOOL

Clinton Hardy

Katy Flowers

MIDDLE SCHOOL/JUNIOR HIGH

ELEMENTARY

Keller ISD

Midway ISD

Texas Choral Directors Association @TexasSings

Robert Stovall

Eric Cooley

FUMC Ft. Worth

Burleson ISD

CHURCH

SECRETARY / TREASURER

@TexasSings As we look into the future, the board envisions a TCDA that is a robust organization serving our membership not only through a summer convention but also through events around the state. We will honor the long traditions of the organization while also being open to innovation and change that serves our evolving membership and profession. It is an honor to serve our organization in this critical, but exciting time and I look forward to sharing more with you as the board works to support our members.

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

Pam Elrod Huffman

Southern Methodist University

Sharon Lutz EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

PAST PRESIDENT

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Listing as of 6/9/19 through 10/17/19

A Special Thanks To Our 2019 Scholarship Donors Tyler Adcock Chris Ahrens Kimberley Ahrens Joseph Akers Amy Allibon Grace Anderson Susan Anderson Jo Antinone Stuart Aron Christopher Aspaas Mary Helen Atkins Dan Baker David Baker William Baldwin John Barone Roland Barrera Enrique Barrera III Eugene Barrett Sam Bartos Susan Bartos Carol Barwick Tom Belden Nathan Benavides Tucker Bilodeau Rick Bjella Clinton Blanco Theo Blue Erin Bodhaine Anne Boeding Nick Boltz Dennis Boyter Team Brandl Sara Brannon Angela Brill Mischa Brinkmeyer Derrick Brookins Jason Brown David Bruce Rebekah Bulen Susan Burt Margaret Campbell Randall Capshaw Santiago Carbajal Meri Jane Cargile Alexander Carr Marian Cates Kurt Cereske Sarah Jane Chambers Stephnie Champion Andre Clark Heather Cole Sarah Collier Cristal Conner Stephanie Cooke Kellie Cooper Carlos Correa Camila Cotter Doug Council Sarah Council

Susan Covell Jeanene Craig Pieter Crathorne Leonie Critidesl Lynn Cruz Ricardo Cruz Deborah Daniel Dale Daniels James David Emily Debner Leslie Delgado Danny Detrick Leslie Detrick Marissa Diaz Mellisa Dightman BJ Douglas Bobbie Douglass Shannon Duckett Garrett Dunaway Candace Dunning Dede Duson Grant Easdon Rachelle Elliott Susan Elliott Stephanie Ertel Audrey Escoffery Joshua Heath Farr Morgan Farren Erin Fernandez Zachary Fishman Ron Franklin Caleb Fritz Beth Fry Emily Fry Thomas Furlow Susan Galentine Jason Gallardo Melody GamblinBullock Erik Garcia Gershom Garcia Marissa Garcia Ricardo Garza Sylvia Garza Barbara Gerbig Philip Glenn Marvin Goad Kyndall Goff William Gokelman Eric Gonzales Alfonso Gonzalez Karen Gonzalez Tamela Griffin Rosalba Guillen Emily Gunter Margaret Haddad Clyde Hale LeeAnn Hamilton Rico Hamilton

Michelle Hank Douglass Harrell Gina Harston Judy Harvel Jennifer Harvey Greg Haugen Abigail Hawes Brittany Haywood Hope Hennecke Joseph Herron Tracy Herron Bethany Hill Beverly Hirsch Michael Hitt Rachel Holliday Robyn Hollimon Steven Hoyle Kathy Hunt Mitchell Hutchins Austin Ishee Phillip Jackson Yvonne Jaggard Terri Jarvis Chelsea Jimenez Katherine Johns Debra Johnson Linda Johnson Cory Jones Samantha Jones Jan Juneau Janice Katz Donald Kearney Barbara Keaton Leslie Keig Brittni Kelly Charlotte Keutzel Lindsay Kimbley Madi King Cassandra Kirby Kenny Kirkland Kevin Klotz Paula Knight Gabrielle Krueger Anita Ladd Margie Langford John Leonard Lisa Leonard Lou Anne Leonard Casey LeVie Linsley Liburd Valerie Lietz Grace Littlefield Nicole Lo Galbo Ashley Logan Cyndie Lowry Aaron Lucero Christie Lujan Jami Lupold Myles Lyra

John Macejewski Andrew Main Tana Marks Laura Martin Alexandra Martinez John May Don McAvoy Leigh Ann McClure Candy McComb Melanie McCreary Mikey McDermott Brian McKinney Duncan McMahan Carrie McRay Sarah Meador Juan Mendoza Saleel Menon Meyerson Foundation Helen Miers Seini Mila Janice Miller Margaret Miller Matthew Miller Austin Montgomery Elizabeth Moore Gregory Moore Melanie Moore Rebecca Morgan Shannon Moriak Jimmy Mosby Patricia Mowles Lucy Murphy Brian Murray Mark Mustol Cara Naizer Samantha Nalundasan Patricia Neighbors Jennifer Nimchan Trevlyn Nipper Paige Nolan Kristin Norris Shannon Mae Norton-Richards Eugene Oehler Veda Ojeda Veronia Orozco Monica Pasillas Tammy Patterson Olivia Peacock Suzanne Pence Jerry Perales Jennifer Pereistein Brenda Perez Barbara Pfeil Mary Jane Phillips Chuck Pineda David Polley Janna Preston Mary Price

Arielle Sword Billy Talley Emory Tanner Leslie Tanner John Tatum Michelle Taylor The World’s Greatest Consultation Group Shelby Thomas Mary Jane Thornton Layne Trent Pamela Trettenero Gabriel Trevino Noel Turner Tommy Van Sickle Liz Vanderhider Richard Douglas Vandertulip Eddie Vandewalker Avary Vaughn Christy Vineis Sandra Walker Joshua Watkins Abigail Weaver Katherine Webb Betsy Weber Steve Weber Jennifer Weems Megan Weinel Nichole Wells Elisa West Faith Westerman Josh Westman Crystal Wheeler Brad White Michelle White Sarah White Noel Wilds Maurice Williams Kristen Willis Sharissa Wills Cheryl Wilson Kasey Wilson James Winslow Kristi Wishon Jason Womack Jeremy Wood Michaelann Wood BriAnne Woodward Matthew Woodward Alexis Wright Melissa Wright Reginal Wright Cheryl Yale Taylor Young Kathryn Zetterstrom

Kyle Pullen Carol Pyle Gregory Pysh Edgar Quaid Jed Ragsdale David Ramirez Veronica Ramirez Angela Ramsey Jen Randall Lyndsey Rawls Emily Reader Maria Rechtorovic Noah Reese Jannette Reyes Rodrigo Reyes Dennis Richardson Katie Richardson Shari Riley Carlos Rios David Rives Sean Rodriguez Scott Rogers John Ross Emily Sabetti Carlos Saenz Delanie Sager Adam Samuels Adam Samuels Jose Sanchez Amanda Sanderson Erin Scalisi Micah Schirado Brian Schmidt Jo Scurlock-Dillard Dorrie Seamans Karen Seiffert Michael Senter Evelyn Shaffer Heather Sharp Richard Shehulski Lauren Shelton Kay Sherrill Deidre Shiben Hope Shiver Tara Sikon Sabrina Silva Ariana Silvani Kerra Simmons Amanda Singer Amy Solberg Margaret Sorrell Tamara Speer Jim Spiers Lindsey Spitsberg Denise Stephens Gloria Stephens Morris Stevens Ginger Storey Shane Studdard

Scholarship funds given in memory of Kathy Hackett, Lou Leonard, Kathy Blair, Rosemary Heffley, Charles Nelson 4

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

2019 TCDA Student Scholarships

2019 TCDA Student Scholarship Recipients Left to right: Debbie Seitter, James Segura, Kari Gilbertson (past president), Thomas Rinn (president-elect), Pam Elrod Huffman (president), Adam Thomas, Mary Jane Phillips (scholarship committee), Henrik Zetterstrom, Helen McDaniel.

Not shown: Ashley Dean, Laurel Kroesch, Kameryn Mattingly, Ivan Rodriguez, Vivian Suarez, Francis Vu, and Hannah Ware.

“

With the difficulties in pursuing higher education—especially after having taught in public schools—those of us who wish to continue on with a terminal degree really do require a village of support to help us. The Gandy Ink Scholarship from TCDA has been so helpful in this 2019-2020 school year in allowing me to study at UNT with the financial support of the Texas Choral Directors Association. Such scholarships encourage further study into our profession, which will ultimately benefit all of us, as we keep the importance of choral music alive in our world. Thank you, Gandy Ink. Your impact goes well beyond the financial means.

”

Francis Vu

DMA Choral Conducting Student University of North Texas

“I was concerned about paying for my final

semester of school ever since my freshman year because I knew my university scholarship would be up. TCDA’s scholarship made it possible for me to complete my degree and lifted so much weight off my shoulders. It’s even more rewarding knowing it came from people who truly care about my future as a choir director.

James Segura

”

Congratulations!

Ashley Dean University of Texas at Arlington GENERAL FUND

Debbie Seitter Texas Tech University ABBOTT IPCO

Laurel Kroesch University of North Texas GENERAL FUND

Vivian Suarez University of Texas at San Antonio CLOYS WEBB

Kameryn Mattingly Texas Tech MARY ANN AND ART WINDEN

Adam Thomas Texas Christian University JACKIE COCKE

Helen McDaniel Baylor University DONALD BAILEY

Francis Vu Michigan State GANDY INK

Ivan Rodriguez Texas State University GENERAL FUND

Hannah Ware Texas State University JIM AND GLENDA CASEY

James Segura University of Texas at San Antonio PAST PRESIDENTS

Henrik Zetterstrom Texas Tech University JAMES EDWARD MATHENY

The University of Texas at San Antonio ‘19

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

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Leaving a Lasting Legacy: Creating a Named Scholarship Towards an Endowment Establishing a named scholarship in memory of, or in honor of, an individual provides a lasting legacy of their contributions to choral music, and provides critical educational support to young musicians. Creating a named TCDA Scholarship requires an initial gift of $5,000 to begin the process of establishing an endowment, followed by a three-year period to raise the funds necessary to establish the endowment. TCDA can assist in this effort by advertising the establishment of the scholarship in publications and on our website.

For more information on establishing an endowed scholarship, leaving a lasting legacy and a perpetual gift for generations of future music educators, please contact Sharon Lutz at sharon@tcda.net or call the TCDA Office at 512-474-2801.

TCDA is pleased to announce two new endowed scholarships, the Lou Leonard Scholarship Fund for TCDA All-State and Honor Choir Financial Assistance, and the Kathy L. Hackett Endowed Scholarship. It is important to note that BOTH remain in the fundraising stage. You can assist in bringing these scholarship to full establishment by considering a donation.

The Lou Leonard Scholarship Fund for TCDA All-State and Honor Choir Financial Assistance Lou Graham Leonard taught choral music at all levels for over 30 years, beginning in Del Valle, Texas, the highlight of her career being choral direction at the secondary level in Spring Branch ISD in Houston.

While at Spring Woods High School, Lou directed 14 Broadway musicals, often recruiting students from all over campus to involve them in the productions. Lou earned a bachelor of fine arts degree in music from The University of Texas at El Paso and a master’s degree in choral music from The University of Texas at Austin. She was so well-loved that when she retired in 1990, about 100 of her former students returned to perform with her current students for her final concert. After Lou’s passing on August 30, 2019 at age 83, her family and friends wished to create a meaningful way to acknowledge her positive influence and contributions to her countless students.

They decided on the creation of a scholarship to provide financial assistance to selected students participating in TCDA Honor Choirs. These funds will be especially meaningful to the qualifying families of children participating in the annual TCDA All-State MS/JH or TCDA Elementary Honor Choirs during the TCDA summer Convention.

The Kathy L. Hackett Endowed Scholarship Kathy L. Hackett most recently served as the Director of Choral Activities at Plano West Senior High School (TX) and the leader of the West Cluster Choral Feeder Program in which she oversaw seven schools. First and foremost, Kathy was a teacher of teachers and considered her greatest professional accomplishment to be the countless students who have gone on to serve the music profession. In her 48 years of music education and 39 years as a teacher and choral director, Kathy taught high school in Liberty and Kingwood, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; Kansas City, Missouri; and Plano, Texas. She received her bachelor of music education degree with a concentration in choral conducting from Southwest Texas State University, and postgraduate hours in music were awarded from Pennsylvania State University. While at Liberty, students nicknamed Kathy “Momma” due to her nurturing, loving guidance, and her “sweet speaking voice”, and continue to refer to her by that name today. Kathy’s career was recognized with many awards and accolades, including a TCDA “Excellence in Choral Music” award, a Teacher of the Year award, and a PTA Lifetime Achievement award. Her choirs were selected to perform at TMEA and at the Southwestern ACDA, with performances at The United States Naval Academy, The West Point Military Academy, and The Basilica of the National

(continued on next page) 6

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

The Lou Leonard Scholarship Fund for TCDA (continued)

The Kathy L. Hackett Endowed Scholarship (continued)

TCDA hopes to award anywhere from two to four scholarships each year, with the first anticipated to be awarded in 2021. This scholarship, in the name of a beloved music educator, benefitting students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in a TCDA honor choir performance, is an appropriate way to remember Lou. TCDA is extremely grateful to Lou’s family and friends for their generosity and vision in creating such a wonderful way to remember her many contributions.

Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, and The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.

Kathy was in demand as a guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator throughout her career for hundreds of choirs nationwide. She passed away on April 19, 2019, yet her legacy will live on through the Kathy L. Hackett Endowed Scholarship, which TCDA hopes to award for the first time in 2022. Many young lives were changed for the better through Kathy’s loving direction, mentorship, and friendship, and TCDA is grateful to Kathy’s family and friends for the meaningful way they have chosen to remember her.

g n i c n u Anno TCDA Partnerships LUDUS TICKETING is a FREE ticketing service for school programs. This is an excellent free program for choral directors, and every ticket sold benefits TCDA. For more information, please visit link below. https://ludus.com/product.php

SIGHT READING FACTORY is a cloud-based service allowing musicians to customize and generate unlimited sight reading examples instantly, and can be used on virtually any device. Current TCDA members receive a 20% discount.

To receive the discount code, call TCDA at 512-474-2801. Join the thousands of musicians all over the world who use SightReadingFactory.com every day. For more information, please visit link below. https://www.sightreadingfactory.com

In Memoriam Dr. Barbara Tarbutton, 80, Brookhaven, Mississippi. Educator at Lamar University, Southwestern University and Killeen HS. DOD October 2018.

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

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2019 TCDA Awards Texas Choirmaster Awards

Rosemary Heffley

Award given posthumously to Rosemary Heffley, TCDA President (1979-81).

Accepted by Dede Duson.

Nora Henson Children’s Chorus of Greater Dallas and SMU Dallas, TX

Young Director of Distinction Awards

Eradio Martinez San Benito CISD San Benito, TX 8

Lauren Robertson Caney Creek HS Conroe, TX TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

2019 TCDA Awards Texas Choral Excellence Awards

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

Norris Blevins Retired Seabrook, TX

Margaret Jordan Retired Pasadena, TX

Eddie Quaid Retired Houston, TX

Billy Talley TCDA President (2013-15) Retired Amarillo, TX

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Composer Spotlight 2019: A Big Texas Welcome to Dr. Alec Schumacker

by Beverly Schlegel One of the most exciting attractions at the 2019 Convention was the opportunity to welcome our first-ever Composer-in-Residence, Dr. Alec Schumacker. Director of Choral Activities and Assistant Professor at Hawai’i Pacific University, Alec made the most of his opportunity to interact with Texas choral directors. “I was super excited to come to Texas and share some tips, techniques and templates in my sessions.”

Currently residing in Honolulu, Alec grew up in Philadelphia (his spouse grew up in Hawai’i).

He considers Hawai‘i “a diverse hub and gathering place of many Pacific Rim cultures.” One of his reading sessions at convention offered directors accessible music by living Pacific Rim composers and arrangers, along with contact information so choral directors could then get in touch with them about their music. Alec also led a reading session of his own music.

Growing up with a strong interest in music, primarily through composition and singing in the choir, Alec has been writing music since he was about twelve. At Hawai‘i Pacific University, Alec conducts the International Vocal Ensemble and the International Chorale, and serves as the president of the Hawai‘i Chapter of the American Choral Directors Association.

Alec received his DMA in Choral Conducting at the University of Miami where he studied with Joshua Habermann and Karen Kennedy. His master’s degree in Choral Conducting is also from the University of Miami. Alec’s choral music is published by Alliance Music Publications and Earthsongs. He is a featured arranger in Earthsongs’ Eo: The Choral Music of Hawai‘i series. His works have been performed around the country by all-state choruses and prestigious ensembles including the Santa Fe Desert Chorale, the New World Symphony, the University of Delaware Chorale, the Frost Chorale, the Voices of Aloha, and at the NFL’s Pro Bowl in 2016.

An active educator and sought-after presenter, Alec delivered lectures at the 2017 National ACDA conference in Minneapolis, the 2016 Asia Kodály Symposia in Taiwan, the 2015 and 2016 Hawai‘i ACDA Professional Development Days, and the 2013, 2016, and 2017 HMEA conferences. His written work on incorporating popular music in the choral curriculum was recently published by GIA in the textbook Becoming Musical.

Alec is a past chair of Na Leo Hou: Hawai‘i’s All-State Choral Festival, an event that brings together high school students from across Hawai‘i for a weekend of mass choral singing with a nationally-renowned clinician, and he is chair of E Himeni Kakou: Hawai‘i’s Collegiate Choral Festival. He also serves as a board member of the National Collegiate Choral Organization.

Alec enjoyed his Texas experience and he also benefitted from his first TCDA convention. “I was delighted to meet so many new colleagues and friends when I visited Texas. Our Hawai‘i-ACDA Professional Development Conference has about forty attendees, so you can imagine my shock upon seeing the palatial San Antonio Convention Center full of fabulous musicians and educators. Being there with the choral directors in July was fantastic!”

Re gistra t i on Now Open!

TCDA WINTER CONFERENCE January 3, 2020 Deer Park High School Early registration ends December 14

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TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

Mother/Daughter Duo Share 2019 Convention

by Beverly Schlegel It couldn’t be easy having your mother as your choir director in those difficult middle school years, but for Lauren Lafferty, now choir director at Legacy High School in Mansfield ISD, the experience was “life-changing.” The mother and daughter duo attended the 2019 TCDA convention together, and recently retired Cheri Lafferty was now able to enjoy the convention through the eyes of her daughter.

“It is a lifelong dream to have your child follow the same career path as you,” says Cheri, a member of TCDA since 1982. Lauren enjoyed having her mother with her at convention this year, especially since Cheri was not searching for music and ideas for her own classroom, but there just for the fun of learning and offering her sage advice to Lauren in sessions.

“I’ll just say, there is never a dull moment sitting next to Cheri Lafferty,” remarks Lauren.

Sharing music together is clearly something the two enjoy, and Lauren, who has attended TCDA since her college days, says TCDA has given her endless repertoire resources that are of quality and in ranges that work for her students. “I always leave with a notebook full of new ideas for starting the year, about teaching fundamentals and creating a classroom culture. This year I really loved learning how Tammy Benton and Jodi Coke start their year. I took many resources from their session, How the Heck Do I Start the Year?

TCDA has been a community and a network of support for me. I meet new people every year who inspire, encourage, and support me.

In this career, it really does take a village and I am blessed to know the educators I have met through TCDA.” Cheri intends to continue attending convention now that she is retired, and looks forward to being alongside her daughter. “TCDA played an important role in my professional life. Now it is great fun to watch Lauren benefit from convention and take charge in her classroom. It is very special watching her follow in my footsteps. She loves teaching and believes in placing her students first to create a family-oriented classroom, just like we had at Truitt Middle School when I was her choir director. It’s also really fun to be with her colleagues, watching them experience convention and taking on the jobs of us now retired folks.”

ATTEND THE 2020 CONVENTION THURSDAY- SATURDAY, JULY 23 - 25 SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS ONLINE RESERVATIONS OPEN IN FEBRUARY Stay Relevant

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

• Network •

Have Fun

Future TCDA Convention Dates: JULY 22-24, 2021 JULY 21-23, 2022 JULY 20-22, 2023 JULY 25-27, 2024 JULY 24-26, 2025

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TCDA Membership Year: January 1 - December 31 Renew or join at www.tcda.net

The Benefits of TCDA Membership: TCDA Publications: • Annual Texas Sings! magazine • Choral Notes, TCDA’s monthly electronic newsletter • Summer Convention Program & Guide

Events & Meetings: • Annual Summer Convention & New Music Reading Clinic • Annual Winter Conference • Other divisional events throughout the year

Repertoire & Resources: • Tried & Proven Reading Sessions • Publisher Sponsored Reading Sessions • Access to all conference & convention handouts

For Your Students: • Opportunity to register for High School Student Leadership Days • Access to the MS/JH All-State & Elementary Honor Choir Audition Process

Professional Benefits: • Right to participate in all TCDA elections, votes • Right to hold leadership positions at both regional and state levels • CPE credit for attendance at organizational events • Access to TCDA Job Board & Membership Directory

Other Member Benefits: • Discounted rates with AAA, Six Flags over Texas • Retail discounts with JW Pepper, Sight Reading Factory, & Ludus Ticketing • Access to financial planning, health care, dental, long-term care, and life insurance plans. Call 512-659-7101 for more 12

serving as a Reading Teacher “forAfter 33 years, I was offered a music teacher position for Fall 2019, which required me to teach Pre-K thru 5th grade music classes. I immediately began searching the internet for professional development in-services that would allow me to prepare for my new position. After searching with no success, I contacted Mr. Carl Idlebird, our Somerville High School Band Director, for suggestions.

He recommended that I attend the TCDA Convention held in July. As a beginning music teacher, I registered for the “Elementary Immersion Day” with high expectations. I can truly say that my experience was “Outstanding.” I have never attended a conference that was so well organized, people-friendly and punctual. The kind-hearted hosts/ hostesses were readily available and willing to answer any questions I had about the convention as a first-timer.

I was also given free resources and materials to help with implementing my music program. I am still bragging and boasting about my experience at the TCDA Convention Elementary Immersion Day. I cannot thank everyone enough for their kind hospitality!!!

Aneathia Mathis

”

Elementary Somerville ISD

“

TCDA helped tremendously with planning for my upcoming school year and I will definitely be back! It was a wonderful experience with lots of coworker collaboration time. Worth every minute! Thanks for a great time!!!!!

Crystal Wheeler

”

Elementary Azle ISD

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

NEWS NEW MEMBER SYSTEM AND WEB REDESIGN ROLL-OUT IN NOVEMBER TCDA is excited to announce a new member-focused software system called SilkStart. SilkStart will roll out in November, offering an enhanced, intuitive interface with useful features including: • An easy log-in; • A seamless way to make transactions, including an easy payment method, with a receipt for your transaction; • Easy access to download receipts through a member profile, with payment showing last four digits

of credit card; • Displays a balance due upon log-in.

TCDA.NET AND MORE! Look for a TCDA web redesign, along with new ways to communicate and interact with our membership!

Expect to see a new TCDA presence on these platforms: Texas Choral Directors Association

@TexasSings

@TexasSings

REGISTER FOR THE TCDA WINTER CONFERENCE The Winter Conference will be held on January 3, 2020 at Deer Park High School, South Campus, in Houston. Registration opens online in mid-November. Early registration fee is $55, on-site $70, students $30. Thank you to sponsor JW Pepper.

INTERIM COLLEGE DIVISION VICE PRESIDENT 2019-2020 Randy Hooper, Director of Choirs and Vocal Activities at Texas A&M University-Commerce, has been appointed to fill the vacancy in the College/Community Division Vice President position for the remainder of the term. Randy previously served as TCDA College/Community Division Vice President (2012-2014) and brings a wealth of experience and resources to the board.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT LEADERSHIP DAYS TCDA will continue to offer High School Student Leadership Days in locations throughout the state in the summer of 2020. With a registration fee of $20 per student, these events are invaluable in training the leadership teams in your high school choral program. Locations, dates, and registration information will be announced by February.

MS/JH ALL-STATE CHOIR AND ELEMENTARY HONOR CHOIR As we continue to expand programs for students, TCDA will offer two auditioned ensembles for students during the 2020 Summer Convention. See page 15 for details.

JOIN US FOR THE ECUMENICAL MEN’S CHORUS TCDA will present the 2020 Ecumenical Men’s Chorus on Saturday, February 22 at the First United Methodist Church in Fort Worth. Conducted by Reginal Wright, this concert and participation in the choir is open to the public. Early registration opens December 1 online for $25; on-site registration is $35.

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

13

Exciting Changes Planned For TCDA All-State and Honor Choirs

by Katy Flowers and Clinton Hardy Those of you who attended the performance of the inaugural TCDA MS/JH All-State Choir at the summer convention witnessed a “true Texas All-State Choir.” What a wonderful demonstration of fantastic musicianship from these students! As previously announced, TCDA will move forward with offering two choirs at the 2020 convention, the TCDA Elementary Honor Choir and the MS/JH All-State Choir. Though we are ready to commit to an EVERY YEAR MS/JH Choir after 2020, we will assess how this works before making a decision to move Elementary Honor Choir to every year. The changes members can expect going forward include: • Expanding the MS/JH All-State Choir to a 58 per part SATB (from the current 50); • Removing the limit on the number of auditions a director can submit; • Creating a scholarship fund targeting Honor and All-State Choir students to assist participants with costs.

We are pleased to announce that we have secured outstanding conductors for our 2020 All-State and Honor Choirs. Daniel Gutierrez, Vocal Music Director at Nixa High School in Springfield, MO, will be our MS/JH All-State Choir conductor and Dr. Rollo Dilworth, Professor of Choral Music Education at Temple University Boyer College of Music in Philadelphia, will conduct the Elementary Honor Choir. Lastly, TCDA very much appreciates the support of our choral directors and the wonderful assistance they provide their students in preparing them for this exciting event. We are excited about the opportunity to grow these choirs and add this level of young talent to our convention.

Our association will benefit, and we are truly developing January 15 Online auditions open future choral directors. Stay tuned for more news about March 22 Audition deadline our All-State and Honor Choirs, and to learn more April 17 Announcement of choirs about next year’s conductors.

2020 MS/JH All-State and Elementary Honor Choir Timeline

May 15 Registration fees due Late May Music sent to participants July 23 Group rehearsals begin in San Antonio July 25 Concerts

Photos from the All-State Choir performing at the 2019 TCDA Convention.

Tom Shelton is directing.

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

15

TCDA Announces Regional Representatives TCDA is pleased to announce first-time Regional Representatives for the 2019-2020 year. These TCDA ambassadors will serve in many capacities, including promoting TCDA in their respective regions and assisting the Board in planning and carrying out its objectives and goals for the membership throughout the state of Texas. An important task for them will be to serve as our eyes and ears throughout the regions, informing us of initiatives and ideas we might consider as TCDA moves forward. These individuals will be an important resource to members, and we are extremely grateful to have their expertise and service.

Let’s give them a big welcome.

REPRESENTATIVE

16

EMAIL ADDRESS

SCHOOL

REGION

open

1

Terri Jarvis

Jarvist@lisd.net

Lakeview

2

Kari Gilbertson

kari.gilbertson@risd.org

Lake Highlands HS

3

Renee Lawson

Renee.Lawson@txkisd.net

Texas MS

4

Aubrey Kistler

aubrey.kistler@fwisd.org

Southwest HS

5

Ken Sieloff

kcsieloff@gmail.com

Permian HS

6

Avary Vaughn

avaughn@mwisd.net

Mineral Wells JH

7

Ren Robertson

Larobertson@conroeisd.net

Caney Creek HS

9

Katie McKeehan

kathryn.mckeehan@silsbeeisd.org

Silsbee HS

10

Antionette Harris

aharris@judsonisd.org

Wagner HS

11

Sarah Trammel

stramm@neisd.net

Lopez MS

12

Saleel Menon

saleel.menon@fortbendisd.com

Ridge Point HS

13

Stephnie Champion-Alfaro

s.champion@ecisd.us

South MS, Edinburg CISD

15

Amy Moss

amoss@frenship.us

Frenship HS

16

Melissa Smith

msmith@fisdk12.net

Friendswood HS

17

Richard Shehulski

richard.shehulski@austinisd.org

Bedichek MS

18

Megan Montgomery

mmontgomery@dpisd.org

Bonnette JH

19

Luke Dean

luke.dean@bullardisd.net

Bullard HS

21

Mark Palombo

markjpalombo@katyisd.org

Rodger and Ellen Beck JH

23

Terri Hamilton

Terri.hamilton@pisd.edu

Hendrick MS

24

Daryl Jackson

dajackson@mckinneyisd.net

Faubion MS

25

Joey Lowrance

joeylowrance@yahoo.com

Georgetown HS

26

Marie Parisot

marie.parisot@cfisd.net

Arnold MS

27

Jeffrey Figueroa

jefigueroa@wisd.us

Weslaco East HS

28

open

29

Courtney Patten

cpatten@bisdmail.net

Kerr MS

30

Thomas Rinn

trinn@tcda.net

Colleyville Heritage HS

31

Michael Zook

michael.zook@leanderisd.org

Vandegrift HS

32

Erin Huston

ehuston@galenaparkisd.com

North Shore MS

33 TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

Inspiration and Education at TCDA High School Student Leadership Day

by Mindy Bersalona It’s the fifth week of school at Donna High School in Donna, TX, in the Rio Grande Valley. I am preparing for our first round of TMEA auditions as Region Chair and for the final two week push before our big Royal Tea Party. Yet I’ve never been more calm. The climate is different this year in my choir program. It’s good. It’s positive. I am seeing my students as a confident and compassionate group of young singers, and the student leadership appears to be working for the good of the program.

This past summer I took nine of my students to an All-State choir camp for the first time. The students really enjoyed it and were excited for the opportunity. So in spite of already having exhausted my entire budget, I decided to approach four of the students, three seniors and a junior, about attending the TCDA sponsored High School Student Day in Brownsville on August 6th. I was willing to pay if they wanted to go. To my surprise, they were excited and enthusiastically agreed. That day, August 6th, changed my choir program!

Colton Blake, Melody Erikson and the Brownsville ISD choir staff “delivered” for my kids! They gave them exactly what our choir program was missing. That first week of school, I noticed things were different. Now, it was not just about procedures, sightreading and logistics. Each of my officers spoke to the kids and conveyed information they learned from Colton, that everyone can be a leader. I actually felt chills as my four choir officers lit a fire under our groups. I listened as they honed in on what Colton told them that day, when he spoke about “doing it scared”, meaning that not everyone is a lion in choir – there are giraffes, dolphins, elephants, cheetahs, etc. If you were there, you got it!

Taking the kids to HSSD gave them ownership in this choir. In the past, our staff ran ragged trying to pull the kids along and doing everything for them. Now, the Donations Committee comes to me to say they need to meet right before class to see what’s missing for an event, and my officers remind me when meetings are scheduled. Strange but so good!

Our program is growing. While we have not had a tradition of large choirs or a ton of All-State students, we now have a secret choir handshake and kids treating each other with respect and helping others grow and succeed. This event offered something for everyone. The afternoon activities planned by Melody Erikson, Tiffany Gibson and Megan Pitcock, who led the fantastic college talk with alumni, checked all the boxes.

If possible, I highly recommend including this event in your budget. Take your students!

Aren’t we always looking for balance and TCDA WILL OFFER extra time with our family and friends? The big payoff is that this event will make your STUDENT LEADERSHIP DAYS life easier and you will see a transformation in AGAIN NEXT SUMMER IN your students. Let them be leaders. Give them opportunities to go beyond what is expected.

SEVERAL LOCATIONS. This experience will provide life skills our kids COST: $20 PER STUDENT. can take with them far beyond high school.

Thank you, TCDA, for giving our students WATCH FOR MORE this wonderful inspiration and education.

Everyone, have a great Fall!

INFORMATION!

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

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Join Us!

9:00 am – 11:00 am 11:00 am – 11:30 am 11:30 am – 1:00 pm 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm 5:30 pm

Sectional Rehearsal Full Rehearsal Lunch (on your own) Rehearsal Concert Performance

Join us for the 2020 Ecumenical Mens’ Chorus. The TCDA Church Division invites members and non-members to experience a great day of Men’s Sacred Music SINGING! Led by the sensational educator, composer and conductor Reginal Wright, Choral Director at Mansfield High School, all participants are guaranteed to leave with ideas for their church choir as well as literature that promises to be uplifting and meaningful for personal use.

Interested participants are encouraged to register and join us for this memorable occasion on Saturday, February 22, 2020, at First United Methodist Church of Fort Worth. For more information and registration, go to www.tcda.net.

18

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

! ­­ 0 2 0 2 f r o d e m r fi n o C

TCDA is excited to announce the following Featured Clinicians for the 2020 TCDA Convention:

Elaine Hagenberg

(Des Moines, IA) internationally acclaimed composer, guest artist and clinician

Daniel Gutierrez (Vocal Music Director at Nixa High School in Springfield, MO) MS/JH All-State Choir conductor

Rollo Dilworth (Temple University Boyer College of Music, Philadelphia, PA) Elementary Honor Choir conductor

STAY TUNED FOR MORE EXCITING 2020 CONVENTION NEWS!

Advertising Opportunities

Sponsorship Opportunities

Please consider advertising in TCDA publications (printed and digital) and on our website. Your support promotes the choral arts within Texas, and provides exposure for your business to over 1700 choral directors. Specific advertising opportunities and rates for print, digital publications and website, can be found at www.tcda.net.

TCDA produces the following publications: • Texas Sings! is a digital issue published in the Fall after our annual convention.

• The TCDA Annual Convention Guide includes a complete listing of events, workshops and reading sessions, exhibitor information, and more. The Convention Guide is distributed to over 1700 convention attendees.

• Choral Notes is our bi-weekly e-newsletter sent directly to members’ in-boxes. Choral Notes provides relevant news and information about TCDA to our choral directors.

TCDA offers many ways to promote your company name and products. Sponsorships provide effective exposure through various forms of recognition. Sponsorship options include: • Soiree (Opening Reception: minimum sponsorship $500) • Clinician Sponsor ($500 each) • Exclusive Tote Bag Headliner ($2,500) • President’s Reception ($1,500 or 3 @ $500) • Stylus Pens ($1,000) • On-Site Registration ($2,500 or partial @ $1,000)

We appreciate our Advertisers and Sponsors!

Call us at 512-474-2801, or visit us at www.tcda.net

Many Thanks To Our Exhibitors TCDA is appreciative of its many longtime exhibitors, and we look forward to welcoming new exhibitors each year. The Exhibit Hall is full of over 500 booths and is the largest summer music exhibition. Do you know any business that would like to participate?

Vendor registration opens Janary 13, 2020. More information can be found at www.swmusicshow.org.

TCDA has existed over 64 years due to the support of our exhibitors and their patronage at convention. We thank you, and our members thank you!

TEXAS SINGS! • Fall 2019

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Thank you to all Clinicians, Conductors, Accompanists, Sponsors and Volunteers who helped make this past summer’s convention a success.

The 2019 Convention offered TCDA Members the time to...

Stay Relevant

•••

Network • • • Have Fun

Mark your calendar for the 2020 Convention Thursday-Saturday, July 23-25

2019 Convention Performances Dallas Chamber Choir, right The CenturyMen, below

T hank

You

2018-19 TCDA Officers

Standing: Katy Flowers, Christina Chapman, Robert Stovall, Jason Dove, Sharon Lutz, Carisa Niemeyer.

Seated: Thomas Rinn, Pam Elrod Huffman, Kari Gilbertson. Not pictured: Jeb Mueller.