Texassings 2015 Spring Issue

TEXAS SINGS! Volume 32 Number 1

Official Publication of the Texas Choral Directors Association

Spring 2015

Join Us for the 60th Anniversary of TCDA! 60th Annual Convention | July 23–26, 2015 | San Antonio, Texas

Address Service Requested Texas Choral Directors Association 7900 Centre Park Drive, Suite A Austin, Texas 78754

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Austin, Texas Permit No. 789

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR S H A R O N

L U T Z

Where does the time go?

H

ere we are, preparing for the 2015 TCDA Convention. It will be an exciting year for sure.

Don’t miss being with us July 23-26 to celebrate your organization’s 60th Anniversary. In this milestone year, I want to take this opportunity to thank our many longtime members. Your continued support of TCDA is the very foundation of our longevity and success. Those of you coming to TCDA every year can best judge how we are doing, and we always welcome your feedback and suggestions. And those of you who are fairly new to TCDA, or coming for the first time this year—thank you for giving us the opportunity to show you how TCDA can benefit your life, both professionally and personally.

If you find TCDA relevant, interesting, and fun, please share your thoughts with a new teacher. We continue to offer a 50% convention discount for new teachers joining TCDA. TCDA has a new Membership Coordinator. Hallie Miller joined us in December. Hallie is looking forward to her first convention. She has been a great asset to the office, and she would love to meet you. Please stop by to see her.

Happy 60th, Everyone! I am glad to be with you again in beautiful San Antonio.

Event Sponsorships and Program Advertising Opportunities Available for 2015 – Celebrate our 60th with More Exposure For Your Company!

TCDA truly appreciates its sponsors and advertisers. We have some great ideas of ways you can Connect with Customers, Support TCDA, and Maximize your Sales! Many levels of sponsorships are available, or tell us what you would like to sponsor! We welcome any size ad in our TCDA Convention program.

Call Sharon Lutz at 512-474-2801, or e-mail Sharon at Sharon@tcda.net. Go to www.tcda.net for more information on sponsorship and advertising opportunities.

Thank you for your support of the choral arts!

TEXAS SINGS! News You Can Use • New: Fun Run Thursday, July 23, 7:00 am. On-site Registration: $10. Meet at Alamo and Market Streets, across from Hilton Palacio Del Rio Hotel. All members and guests welcome.

• Registration: Opens Thursday, July 23, 12 noon–7:00 pm.

• Don’t Miss! 60th Anniversary Celebration follows TCDA Business Meeting!

• One free ticket to Home Free Saturday evening for each convention registrant. Max of 3 with preregistration.

Tickets available on-site (first come, first serve).

• New Location & Reduced Fee: Golf Tournament: Thursday, July 23. Fee $50. Republic Golf Club.

Deadline to Apply: June 23, 2015.

• Complimentary Childcare (12 and younger).

• Preregister for Convention by July 1 at $120! Save $20.

Avoid long lines!

• Share a Room: Hotel Rates Guaranteed until June 24.

• Daily Prizes for visiting the Exhibit Hall.

• Recruit a Friend to join TCDA! New Member Initiative: First-Year teachers joining TCDA receive 50% reduction in convention fee.

• Guidebook App available for all three convention schedules.

• New Teacher Academy on Thursday, July 23.

• Encore Sing-In – Schubert’s Mass in G on Thursday, July 23 (Schirmer edition).

• Soiree: Hours 6:30–9:00 pm. Two Complimentary Drinks and Nacho Bar.

Volume 32

Number 1

Spring 2015

contents Candidates for TCDA Board of Directors

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TCDA History – Then and Now

8

President’s Page How We Got Here

by Billy Talley

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Convention Clinicians

12

Membership, Convention & Hotel Forms

Center

Convention Conductors

13

Convention Accompanists

14

President-Elect 15 Here’s Your Invite!

by Kari Gilbertson Convention Schedule

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Convention Highlights

18

Offerings by Division

22

On the cover: Country a cappella band Home Free

Future Convention Dates

TEXAS SINGS! Editor Beverly Schlegel

July 23–26, 2015 (60th Anniversary) July 21–24, 2016 July 20–23, 2017 July 26–29, 2018

Layout and Design Ben White, Lubbock Official Publication of the Texas Choral Directors Association 7900 Centre Park Drive, Suite A Austin, Texas 78754 512-474-2801 www.tcda.net © 2015 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.

A Special Thanks to Our Exhibitors We want to express a heartfelt thanks to our new exhibitors as well as our long-time exhibitors. Your support plays a starring role at our convention and in our ability to pursue the goal of excellence in choral music education.

We couldn’t do it without you!

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND: EXHIBITOR EXPRESS LINE FEATURING BOX LUNCH Grab & Go! A Quick Lunch for Only $10 Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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Board of Directors

High School Vice President Brandon Farren has been teaching for 17 years in Texas at the Middle School, 3A, 4A and 5A High School levels. He currently teaches at Canyon HS. Canyon HS features six award winning performing ensembles and a music theory program.

Brandon began his teaching career at Bowie MS and for two years was the assistant director at Tascosa HS in Amarillo under Billy Talley. In fall 2002, Brandon began his current position as head director at Canyon HS and under his direction, the choirs performed at the 2007 and 2011 TMEA conventions. In addition to being active as an adjudicator, Brandon conducts region clinics/concerts across the state. He served TMEA as Men’s Choir section leader, Region Chair and is the TMEA Area A Vocal Chair. He is a member of TCDA, MOWT, TMEA, TMAA and ACDA. Brandon has been nominated for campus teacher of the year multiple times and has served as Director of Music Ministries at Westminster Presbyterian Church for sixteen years. He earned a BME from West Texas A&M University in 1998.

CANDIDATES FOR

If elected

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I would like to put into practice what we all preach to our choirs. Our goals as teachers are to inspire our students to become competent and outstanding musicians while striving for excellence. We achieve these goals not through “good” concerts but through dedicated rehearsals and outstanding literature. This is what our conventions should bring out in us. We wouldn’t allow our students to miss the incredible opportunities presented daily, and we should strive to hold ourselves to the same standard. By focusing our conventions on organization, inspiration, literature, recruiting, retention and fellowship, we will collaborate and hasten our development in areas that are new and full of untapped potential. I have been inspired many times at TCDA conventions by both seasoned professionals and first-year teachers. I want to continue the great work that is our foundation and break into new areas of instruction and encouragement. Together we make an unstoppable force as we showcase the difference music can make in the lives of students and in our communities. It would be a blessing and an honor to be your next TCDA High School Vice President.

David Landgrebe is in his 11th year at Spring HS and in his fourth year as the head choral director, leading a choral program of 350 students. David’s choirs consistently earn sweepstakes awards at UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest. Under his direction the Spring HS Chorale, Chorale Women, and Chamber Choirs have been named a national or commended winner six times in the Mark of Excellence contest, and last year Spring HS was named a Grammy Signature School national semi-finalist for the first time. In the last three years Spring HS choirs have been invited performers with the University of Houston, Sam Houston State University, Louisiana State University, West Texas A&M University, and the Houston Chamber Choir. David served as the facilities chair & convention coordinator for the vocal division of TMEA in 2008 and 2009, and as a facilities and equipment manager for the 2010 TMEA convention.

He served multiple terms as tabulations chair for Region IX and assisted with registration technology from 2002-2010 during the TCDA convention. David is currently in his third term as the Area D vocal chair for TMEA. In 2007 David was named an inaugural recipient of the TCDA Distinguished Young Director Award. His professional affiliations include ACDA, TCDA, TMEA, Phi Kappa Phi and Pi Kappa.

If elected

I remember attending my first TCDA convention in the summer of 2002 as a college student and division assistant tagging along with Dr. Betsy Weber and a crew of college students from the University of Houston.

If elected, I will work tirelessly to help TCDA continue to innovate and grow. Every summer there are more and more choral positions that go unfilled and the enrollment in choral programs in the state continues to increase. I truly believe that every choral student in the state deserves a highly qualified, passionate choral director and TCDA is such an important resource for Texas choral directors. There are still many ways we can help both our first-year teachers and our successful veteran teachers. I would be honored and humbled to serve my colleagues in this capacity.

Texas Sings! · Spring 2015

Thomas J. Rinn is in his 14th year as a Texas HS choir director and in his first year as the Head Choral Director at Colleyville Heritage HS following a nine-year tenure as head choir director at Juan Seguin HS and previous positions at Clear Lake HS, John Jay HS and the Houston Boychoir. In 2010 the Seguin HS Chamber Choir was honored to perform as an invited choir at the TMEA Convention. Thomas served as vocal-chair for TMEA Region V, as a member and chair of the TCDA hospitality committee, as a clinician for both TCDA and TMEA conventions (most recently as a clinician at the 2014 TCDA Convention), as section leader for the All-State Choir on three occasions, and currently serves on the state UIL Sight-Reading Committee. He is a frequent clinician, adjudicator, and presenter of teacher training nationwide with engagements most recently in Texas, Michigan, Florida, Tennessee, and Colorado. Thomas holds a BME, magna cum laude, from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a MME from Florida State University.

If elected

The professional organizations in Texas are a key component to the outstanding music education offered in our state. TCDA played an important role in my development as a young teacher and continues to influence me as I strive to learn and grow each year. In a climate where few teachers are afforded the benefit of an underwritten trip to TCDA, and our methods of receiving and previewing new choral music continue to move to an electronic medium, TCDA must evolve to remain a relevant organization to our membership. If elected, I will work to continue the incredible work of our past leaders in producing a meaningful convention that offers repertoire, ideas, and professional connections that support and inspire us in our classrooms. I will “think outside the box” to find ways to support young teachers, engage them in our convention, and ultimately build them into leaders in the organization.

I pledge to work tirelessly in pursuing this goal and helping to preserve the rich tradition of TCDA while also pushing it into a new era that will serve us well into the future.

Middle School/Junior High Vice President Tammy Benton is in her 18th year as director of the Midway MS Choral program. The program has an enrollment of 340 seventh and eighth grade students in six performing choirs. The program takes four choirs to UIL each year. They consistently earn sweepstakes and high accolades, and frequently participate in All-Region auditions and TCDA Honor Choirs. Tammy leads workshops in the state on teaching middle school choirs, specifically in recruiting, building and teaching boys’ choirs, and receives invitations to clinic and conduct Region choirs in Texas. Her Combined Boys’ Choir receives numerous invitations to perform, including the 2005 and 2011 TMEA conventions and the 2013 National ACDA Convention. The Boys’ Choir performed for the 2005 White House Christmas. Tammy was guest conductor for the 2013 ACDA Louisiana MS/JH Honor Choir. She served as a clinician for TMEA and TCDA and received a TCDA 2012 Glenda Casey scholarship. Tammy served on a TMAC/TMEA committee as well as on the Texas UIL/ PML Committee. She is also a supervising teacher and mentor to Baylor music students. Tammy received a BME and a MM from Baylor University. Her professional affiliations include TMEA, TCDA and ACDA. If elected

It is a privilege for me to accept the invitation for candidacy on our TCDA Board of Directors. If elected, I promise to find the best in choral selections that are educational, interesting, creative and age appropriate for our General Reading Sessions; actively pursue the very best available clinicians/conductors that will bring energy, creativity and inspiration to our convention workshops; provide meaningful opportunities in professional growth for our own MS/JH directors by utilizing them in future TCDA presentations; work hard to continue the strong and popular tradition of our TCDA Middle School Honor Choir by bringing in the best conductor for this age who selects superior repertoire for our adolescent singers; and lastly, work collaboratively with other members of the board as well as with my esteemed middle school colleagues in making the choices that benefit the organization as a whole.

Connie Horton is in her 20th year of teaching choral music in Conroe ISD and in her sixth year at

McCullough JH. Under her direction, the McCullough choirs consistently earn sweepstakes ratings at UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest. The McCullough Mixed Choir was named a commended winner of the Mark of Excellence Award in 2013; the Choir was an invited choir at the ACDA Cambiata Institute in May 2014, and performed as an invited choir at the 2015 TMEA Convention. Prior to teaching junior high choir, Connie taught fifth and sixth grade general music and choir for fourteen years. During her ten years at Mitchell Intermediate, she had two elementary TMEA invited choirs (2005 and 2008) and she was named “Teacher of the Year” in 2005. Connie has organized and hosted Conroe ISD choral events and served on Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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several Fine Arts curriculum committees. In addition to her work in CISD, she served as the TCDA Elementary Division Vice President (2004–2006) and as the TMEA Region IX Junior High Vocal Coordinator (2011–2014). Connie serves as a guest clinician, conductor, and adjudicator around the state. She holds a BME from Sam Houston State University.

If elected

My introduction to TCDA was through my husband, Bob Horton. The first convention I remember was in July 2002. I had the privilege of helping Wanetta Hill with the Elementary Honor Choir. I fell in love with TCDA at that convention and haven’t missed one since. If elected, my goal will be to continue to provide the division with a convention that includes beneficial workshops, the best new music, and a quality honor choir experience for the students who participate. Looking forward, I would like to explore ways we can help, nurture and encourage new middle school/junior high teachers. I believe that TCDA can be a network of support for new teachers. If elected, I will continue to provide a quality convention experience for its membership, uphold the standard of excellence in choral music in Texas, and explore ways to support and mentor our new teachers. I am honored to be a nominee for the office of MS/JH Vice President and I appreciate your consideration. I would love to serve the membership of TCDA as the MS/ JH Division Vice President.

Carisa Niemeyer is in her second year as Head Director of Choirs at Forest Meadow JH in the Rich-

ardson ISD, serving previously as associate director for five years. On her campus, Carisa serves as Fine Arts Department Chair, Collaborative Learning Facilitator, as a member of the Instructional Leadership Team, and a Student Council sponsor. She was selected as FMJH’s 2014-15 Teacher of the Year. In summer 2012, Carisa received the TCDA Distinguished Young Director Award. She serves as an active clinician and adjudicator and is a member of TMEA and TCDA. Most recently, she has been a contributing author for the forthcoming Hal Leonard/McGraw Hill choral textbook, Voices in Concert. Carisa received a BA in Music, summa cum laude, in December 2007, and a BBA in Finance, summa cum laude, both from Texas Tech University. In addition to her collegiate studies, Carisa completed all four levels of coursework for her Kodály Certification at the West Texas Kodály Institute.

If elected

I will be overjoyed! TCDA has been such an influential force in my development as an educator that I will strive to continue and foster the commitment to excellence so clearly established by past and present TCDA boards. Teaching junior high is the ‘best of both worlds’ since students are young enough to mold as they move toward their futures but old enough to have fun with as well.

Understanding and embracing the wild world of junior high choir drives me to improve each day. I will work to bring in presenters who share this drive, find music that feeds this drive, and establish procedures that facilitate this drive. Both my involvement in the business world and my experience in the classroom afford me the ability to come up with organized and practical ideas while developing creative implementations and avenues. The winding road to my first love, teaching music, has led me to this place of passion, dedication, and gratitude. I would be honored to serve TCDA.

Secretary-Treasurer Davina Hendrix has been a music educator in Texas for 17 years. She has been privileged to teach

middle and high school choirs in Tomball and in The Woodlands. Davina is in her ninth year as head director at Pflugerville HS. Choirs under her direction have received consistent sweepstakes at UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest. Pflugerville HS Varsity Women’s Choir had the honor to perform at TMEA in 2012.

Davina served as Region 18 Vocal Chair from 2010-2014, All-State Treble Choir section leader, and is currently Region Treasurer. An active clinician, conductor and adjudicator for UIL contests across the state, Davina is a magna cum laude graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, earning a BME in 1998. Her professional affiliates include TMEA, TCDA, and TMAA.

If elected

Where would I be without TCDA and the amazing choir directors in our state that encourage and support each other? If elected, I hope to give back the many experiences, opportunities, and amazing ideas I have received while attending the TCDA conventions. Hosting contests and concerts for TMEA and UIL has given me the administrative experience necessary for this position.

As TCDA continues to grow, I would bring the efficiency and organizational skills I have developed through serving to continue the hard work of our board members, both past and present. I will diligently work to improve the logistics of registration and serve you, the members of TCDA. From the music reading sessions, to dinner with colleagues, our TCDA convention is a time of renewal. The opportunity to run for a TCDA office is an honor, and I will serve this membership with the same support, commitment, and dedication you have given me throughout my career.

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Texas Sings! · Spring 2015

Leigh Ann McClure is a child of two music educators. Leigh Ann is in her ninth year as head director of the Keller Central HS Choral Music Department. In that time, the program has grown to almost 400 singers with three directors and four voice instructors. Leigh Ann previously taught in Arlington, Cleburne, and Alvarado. Her choirs are consistent UIL sweepstakes trophy recipients and have been named “Outstanding Overall” at several festivals. In addition to having numerous TMEA All-State Choir members, she regularly teaches all-state camps at several universities and is an active adjudicator, clinician, and honor choir conductor. She served TMEA as Region Secretary, MS/JH Region Coordinator, Region Vocal Chair, and organizer of the All-State Women’s Choir. In 2013, Leigh Ann was honored by UIL as a recipient of the state’s “Sponsor of Excellence” award. She is currently serving as Vocal Vice-President of TMAA and is Director of Music and Worship at Saginaw United Methodist Church. One of her greatest joys is singing with Schola Cantorum of Texas. Leigh Ann received a BME degree from Baylor University and a MME from The University of North Texas.

If elected

I will make decisions that are influenced not only by where I am, but also where I’ve been---a middle school choir director, a high school choir director in programs ranging from 3A to 6A classifications, and a church musician serving both small and large congregations. Through it all, TCDA has been a place of growth and inspiration. My church musicians have relished the TCDA Festival Chorus experience, my choir officers have been inspired by TCDA Student Day sessions, and those who have sung in TCDA honor choirs will always treasure that experience. It is important that TCDA continue to provide sessions and experiences that will inspire and enrich choral musicians serving in rural and urban communities, small and larger programs, and sacred as well as secular settings. In order to remain relevant, TCDA must continue serving our diverse membership by providing opportunities pertinent to all these populations. I would be honored to serve TCDA as Secretary/Treasurer.

Theresa Whatley is enjoying her tenth year as Choir Director at Austin Academy, a Title I magnet school for gifted and talented students in the Garland ISD. Her choirs have consistently earned sweepstakes ratings at UIL and superior ratings at the Hawaiian Falls Choral Festival in Garland, where Austin choirs have been selected as Grand Champions and Best in Class numerous times. In 2011 and 2013, the Austin Academy A Cappella Choir was selected to perform at the Texas Coalition for Quality Arts Education Fine Arts Day at the Capitol. Theresa has presented workshops at TCDA, the New Teacher Academy, inservices for local districts, and serves as an adjudicator in Texas. She served on the principal-selected Campus Leadership Committee and is an active leader in her district, serving as Lead Teacher for Garland ISD and as Secretary for the Region 3 MS Vocal Division. She is a cum laude graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce, earning a BS in Music Education, and she will graduate from Texas A&M UniversityCommerce in August with a MM with a Secondary Choral Education emphasis. Theresa is a member of ACDA, TCDA, TMEA, and TMAA. If elected

I am passionate about the importance of TCDA because it has been an incredibly important part of my career, providing educational resources, inspiration, and networking opportunities. The importance of TCDA to young educators and seasoned educators alike simply cannot be overstated. I would be honored to serve as Secretary-Treasurer and will do anything that will help TCDA continue to provide enriching conventions and opportunities to its members. I feel I am uniquely equipped to serve TCDA in this position because I am very organized, think creatively and enjoy hearing others’ perspectives. When provided with the opportunity, I am eager to provide possible solutions to challenges presented. I think a solid work ethic, desire to learn, and great concern for always giving my very best makes me a strong candidate for this position of service.

Voting is online this year! All Active members are eligible to vote (per TCDA Bylaws). Renew your membership today and vote! On-site voting will remain open until Friday, July 24, at Noon.

Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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Then & NOW TCDA Celebrates 60 Years: 1955–2015

I recall the Board meeting at the conclusion of our convention in 1959. It started at 5:30 pm Friday after the last reading session, and lasted until 4:00 am. We might still be in session had it not been for the cool leadership of new president Buddy Furrh. He assigned the organization of the elementary division to me and this was my job for the next two years. This proved fruitful from the outset because we planned their sessions as workshops rather than new materials sessions. We felt there were so many fine elementary music teachers in the state who were never allowed to attend TMEA conventions during the school year.

Karl Hickfang, Sergeant at Arms 1959 – Tidbit from Memories of TCDA 25th Year History

Graduate students at North Texas made up the chorus for the first TCDA New Music Reading Sessions in Dallas, Texas. Left to right: Ed Hatchet, Jim Ramsey, Unknown, Hugh Ellison, Cloys Webb, Bill Hunt, Ed Stone

I was a summer school graduate student at North Texas State when, in June 1956, I attended the very first TCDA Reading Clinic in Dallas. I served TCDA in many ways, writing articles for The Texas Choirmaster; leading reading sessions and workshops; serving as vice president for the church/community division; conducting the first concert presented by a community chorus; and spending hours on the music selection committee.

I loved it all! TCDA pioneers bonded and battled, and set a firm path of professional growth for a few hundred members during the 1950s, to the thousands of members today. And the most fun in those early years—WE ALL KNEW EACH OTHER! Dr. William A. Hunt, Member 1956

It was rather ironic that I should be a part of the first TCDA journal because nine years later it would be my unpleasant task as an officer to vote to discontinue the publication. It was my responsibility to pay the bills, but there was literally no money in our checking account. We owed several thousand dollars to ACDA and it was a couple of months before we could clean up our debts.

Finally, TCDA began to lift its head from its financial crisis.

C. M. Shearer, Secretary-Treasurer 1969–1971 – Tidbit from Memories of TCDA 25th Year History

It was noted that in the Elementary sessions there was a lack of both quantity and quality in the singer’s reading. It was suggested that only good women singers be invited to participate. It was further noted that TCDA members have no idea about the problems the Board faces in selecting music for the reading sessions.

Ray Moore, Board member – Remarks taken from TCDA Board Minutes 1970

As TMEA Region IV Secretary in 1950, one of the band directors I met was Jack Mahan from Texarkana. Weary of teaching, Jack decided to take a job as manager of the sheet music department at Brook Mays Piano Company. Jack was a longtime member of TMEA and TBA and he noticed that the choral directors had no such organization. He wanted me to be the first President of TCDA. Because of my agreement with my employer I could not participate and suggested Earl Tom Keel, a friend from college. Earl Tom was head of choral music at Grand Prairie High School. Jack helped set up the first reading clinic in Dallas and E.T. was elected the first President of TCDA. E.T. and I went through undergraduate school together at North Texas. He, like the rest of us, was young, energetic and eager.

Charles Nelson, Member 1970 8

Texas Sings! · Spring 2015

We met through workshops at TMEA and TCDA, so you could say TCDA played a big part in our future together.

Bob keeps in touch with a couple of his college friends, including Charles Nelson, through what they call “The Old Fogies Association.” Bob, as a young boy, sang in the Washington Cathedral of the Episcopal Church’s Choir of Men and Boys in

Washington, D.C., and in the 1960’s, we took the Brownsville Boy Choir, which we organized, to give a demonstration performance at the TCDA convention. We married in 1967 and the choir sang at our wedding. We talk about how important elementary music programs are to the success of the secondary programs, both instrumental and vocal, and, of course, we think that the Elementary Division is a very important part of TCDA. Bob was chairman of that division at one point. I, myself, retired from Hanna HS after many years of concentrating on junior high/middle school.

Ann Anderson Buchanan, Secretary-Treasurer 1966 Robert B. Buchanan, Third VP Elementary Division 1979

From the mid-1950s when TCDA was “born” until the late 1970s, the focus of the board and membership was music and fellowship! In terms of business procedures, it was not until the tenure of Melva Sebesta’s presidency that such matters were handled. Needless to say, none of us on the board were business oriented yet, with the guidance of Melva, George Mather and Eleanor Grant, a biennial commercial audit of the books (which had never been done) as well as solidification of printing (allowing the acquisition of a bulk mailing permit) were two important outcomes. In comparison to the size and scope of TCDA today, such items seem insignificant but they were instrumental in putting the organization on a more solid financial footing. I wrote in the Fall 1981 newsletter: “So what of the future for our organization? Hopefully, that future will be one dedicated to a constant thrust toward the perpetuation of the choral art, and devoted to the absolute quality of thought and intention to all of the arts. Choral music is our specialty, yet let us hope our vision and commitment will be toward contribution to an artistic quality of life for our students and audiences.”

Rosemary Heffley, President 1979–1981

I joined the TCDA Board as President before there was a President-Elect position, which meant I assumed the reins of the organization as soon as the previous board concluded its business on Saturday after the 1983 convention. My experience on the TMEA Board was very helpful, and I also relied heavily upon the guidance of Past President Carroll Barnes. We had numerous organizational issues to handle, including the hiring of a new Executive Secretary and completely reorganizing the Board. We added a fall planning retreat to get a head start on convention planning and the hiring process. We held the first TCDA Talent Show and barbeque at the 1984 convention. In the fall of 1984 we hired Dan Wood as the new Executive Secretary; his first convention was our 30th Anniversary in 1985. We awarded Past President plaques to all Past Presidents since the beginning of TCDA. We purchased the first computer, an Apple Macintosh! We began publishing a quarterly magazine, Texas Sings! using Dan’s publishing expertise. We moved all membership and convention registration from the Board to the Executive Secretary. Hiring Dan was our greatest achievement.

He took TCDA into a new era, and we experienced incredible growth in every area, especially the involvement of corporate supporters and exhibitors.

A Lasting impression: My wife and I were at our first TCDA convention in 1970. We had an evening to ourselves, so we walked down the Riverwalk. After we passed by the restaurants we heard the sound of a jazz band around the bend of the river. We decided to see what it was, and we discovered “The Landing!” We walked in, and there, along with the band, was a quartet of TCDA members singing! Bill Cormack, Jack Glover, Cloys Webb, and Bill Davis were having the time of their lives singing barbershop quartets to a very enthusiastic crowd. What was a happy discovery on our part became a lasting memory of TCDA! Nick Boltz, President 1983–1985

When I researched the history of TCDA workshops, it was interesting to see that the same topics are repeated throughout time: how to sing more musically, more in tune, with more breath support, with taller vowels . . . I laughed, because some things never really change in this profession. The importance of our connectivity to each other has not changed either, and this has been undeniably enhanced by social media over the past 10 years. While I’m grateful to share life’s choral highs and lows on Facebook, nothing supersedes the positive impact of attending the TCDA convention each year. This is something that will never change—the need to connect, inspire, and learn as a collective body of artists and teachers.

TCDA has been an integral part of not only my teaching career but my life since 1989. I have gained so much insight into better teaching methods from attending workshops, concerts and reading sessions for the past 26 years. I am a better teacher and musician because of these things.

However, the greatest impact has come from the lifelong friendships I found at TCDA. It is hard to explain to a nonmusician how important people you see only twice a year can be, but we all understand that phenomenon. I have also met and worked with almost all my musical heroes in the past 26 years.

I am blessed beyond measure, and those moments were often moments at TCDA.

Everything about TCDA helps me as a choir director! I am always looking for new strategies to teach more effectively, and it’s exciting to find new repertoire in the music reading sessions.

Convention is my brain’s official reset from summer to school mode. It gets the wheels in my head spinning for the start of a new year! As a young teacher, I need conventions like this where I can learn from elite veterans and join the community of our profession. The time I spend with my friends and colleagues during TCDA is priceless. The more we learn from each other, the stronger Texas music education grows. I am so grateful every year for TCDA and am looking forward to its 60th anniversary! #TCDA2015 here we come!

Amy Allibon, President 2009–2011

Mary Jane Phillips, Member 1989

Debbie Pilgrim, Member 2014 Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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PRESIDENT B I L L Y

T A L L E Y

How We Got Here

T

CDA will celebrate its Diamond Jubilee at this summer’s convention on July 23-26, 2015.

Sixty years is a long time! Whenever we celebrate a milestone like this, I think it is healthy to seize the opportunity to reflect on how we got to this point. What were our beginnings? Who were the key people that had the courage to begin something new for the choral directors of Texas back in 1955? We use words like legacy, tradition, and heritage when we think about the past. And each of us, whether we have taught for one year or for thirty years, has someone in our past that had such a powerful influence on us that caused us to choose this path of choral music. For many, it was more than one person. Whoever that person was for you, maybe you should take a moment to write a letter to that person to express your gratitude. A written letter in your own handwriting might be the validation your mentor needs. A text or email just wouldn’t be the same. Write a letter. If your mentor is no longer with us, perhaps a letter to their spouse or children would be a reminder that their loved one was a significant and important part of who you have become.

Another way to celebrate our mentors is through the TCDA Choral Excellence Award. Each year, we recognize the achievements of outstanding choral directors who have established a legacy of excellence in choral music. During the TCDA Business Meeting, we will be honoring a number of choral directors with this prestigious award.

Even as we celebrate our heritage of the past sixty years, we also look to the future and celebrate those brilliant young directors who are well on their way to becoming the leaders of TCDA. The TCDA Young Director of Distinction Award will be given to some deserving directors who have taught five years or less and already exhibit excellence in music education.

Early in my career as a choir director, I made a decision that I would always attend my professional

organizations’ conventions. Thankfully, my school district pays for my TMEA expenses. But my district, like many of yours, does not help with expenses for TCDA. I choose to attend each summer at great expense because attending TCDA is an irreplaceable resource for me as a music educator. I have never regretted one single dime spent on TCDA. I have received so much more than I have ever paid in convention expenses. For me, it’s an easy decision: I am a Texas choral director and I go to TCDA! If you come to TCDA this summer, you can: • SING the Schubert “Mass in G” and “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” and be a part of the reading choirs.

• LISTEN to outstanding performances by the Texas Master Chorale, the Middle School/ Junior High Honor Choir, and the Director’s Chorus.

• EXPERIENCE the TCDA Worship Service and a concert by HOME FREE. • ATTEND meaningful workshops presented by some of our state’s top musicians.

• MEET nationally recognized conductors Sandra Snow and Andrea Ramsey and composers Dominick DiOrio and Susan LaBarr.

• PLAY in the TCDA Golf Tournament.

• RUN with the bulls through the streets of San Antonio during the 5K Fun Run (Oh, sorry, no bulls).

• LAUGH with us as we learn “What Not To Wear.”

• GREET old friends and meet new ones at the TCDA Soiree.

Your Board has put together a convention that has something for everyone. We are going to celebrate 60 years of the Texas Choral Directors Association. It is going to be a convention you will not want to miss. See you in San Antonio!

TIMELINE OF TCDA • October 25, 1955 Earl Tom Keel, TMEA Vocal Chairman, and Jack Mahan, TMEA Past President, met with choral directors to discuss a new choral music reading clinic • February 1956 TMEA Convention The Choral Division under chairmanship of Charles Nelson approved the new organization

10

Texas Sings! · Spring 2015

Come Celebrate Our 60th!

Singing, Birthday Cake, Balloons and More Follows TCDA Business Meeting Saturday, July 25th

Thanks to All Who Made TCDA Happen!

Joey Gannon

• June 24–26, 1956 First TCDA Annual Reading Clinic was held at the Adolphus Hotel in Dallas. Officers elected: Earl Tom Keel, President; Herbert Teat, Vice President; Flora Lee Pope, Secretary • June 9–11, 1957 Second TCDA Annual Reading Clinic was held in Dallas • August 1957 TCDA members attended the TBA

Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

11

12

Texas Sings! 路 Spring 2015

Amy Allibon

Rick Bjella

Kristen Bugos

Michael Chandler

Lorelai Cole

Dave Collett

Jennie Crawford

Chris Crook

Sid Davis

Taylor Davis

Ashley Delaney

Dominick DiOrio

Dana Effler

Frank Eychaner

Angie Goins

Bethany Green Stuard

Jenny Hafernik

Clinton Hardy

Charles Hausmann

Greg Hobbs

Robyn Hollimon

Bob Horton

Debra Johnson

Courtney Kelly

Becky Knox

Kinley Lange

Cyndie Lowry

Kelly McDonald

Dinah Menger

Amy Moore

Texas Choral Directors Association Texas Choral Directors Association

Membership Form 2015 MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS:

Check if applicable:

TCDA

ACDA

New TCDA Member

Active

$50.00 _____

$95.00 _____

Opt out vendor e-mail

Associate

$50.00 _____

$95.00 _____

Retired

$25.00 _____

$45.00 _____

Student

$20.00 _____

$35.00 _____

First Year Teacher

Name _______________________________________________________________________ Home Address ________________________________________________________________ City _____________________________________________ State _____________________ Zip ___________ Home or Cell _______________________________ E-mail ________________________________________ Alternate E-Mail ______________________________ Employer ___________________________________________________________________ Title __________________________ Work Address ________________________________________________________________ City __________________________________________ State ____________________ FAX __________________________________________ Preferred Mailing Address: Home ______ Work _____ Employment: Student Church/Synagogue Elem JH/MS HS College

Zip ___________

Admn

Comm

Please consider a donation to a TCDA Scholarship (minimum gift $5.00). Designations below: AMOUNT: TCDA General Scholarship __________ In Memory/Honor of ________________________________ Past Presidents Scholarship __________ Liz Volk Scholarship __________ Cloys Webb Scholarship __________ Return form with payment by July 1 to: William Gorham Scholarship __________ TCDA Jackie Cocke Scholarship __________ 7900 Centre Park Dr., Suite A Jim and Glenda Casey Scholarship __________ Austin, TX 78754 Donald L Bailey Endowed Scholarship __________ Phone: 512-474-2801 James E Matheny Endowed Scholarship __________ Fax: 512-474-7873 hallie@tcda.net GRAND TOTAL THIS PAGE:

Please give a Membership Form to a colleague not in TCDA! Thanks for your support www.tcda.net

Private

Convention Pre-Registration Form (Membership Required) Registration at door $140. Pre-registration deadline July 1, 2015 Return form to: TCDA * 7900 Centre Park Drive, Suite A * Austin, TX 78754 FAX: 512-474-7873 * hallie@tcda.net

Convention Pre-Registration Fee** (includes 1 ticket to Home Free performance) Check if applicable: Request a Mentor

Active Associate Retired

$120 $120 $ 40

Would like to be a Mentor Would like to be considered

Student Out-of-State

$ 25 $120 (Out-of-State ACDA

as an Accompanist for 2016 First Convention

pay convention fee only)

Optional Events/Items Family/Guest Badge @ $15 per person; 18+ yr = Special performance of Home Free $15 each

__________ __________

(max 3 additional tickets per member) High School Day @ $15 per student

__________

=

New Teacher Academy $40 (includes lunch) **Convention pre-registration $60 for first year teachers.

Proof of eligibility required.

__________

Golf Tournament

_________

$50

(Day Care Complimentary for 12 and younger)

Merchandise Polo (S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL) $25.00 Commemorative 60th T-shirt (S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL) TCDA Mug or water bottle

$15.00

$ 5.00

_________ _________

Size _________ Size _________

_________

GRAND TOTAL OF ALL ITEMS: Badge Name:

SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION

__________________________________

If you are completing this form on behalf of a TCDA member, please provide the following:

__________________________________ __________________________________

Your Name: _______________________________________________

Guest Name(s):

Email: ____________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________________ **Attach Authorized PO

We accept Mastercard, Visa, Discover and Authorized POs. Credit card payments must be made on-line or by calling the TCDA Office at 512-474-2801. If payment is being made with a PO, a copy of the PO must accompany this form.

Convention fees include all exhibits and clinics and two Soiree drink tickets. • Membership dues paid to TCDA are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes; however, dues payments may be deductible as ordinary and necessary business expense.

Donations to TCDA and/or TCDA scholarship are tax deductible.

Download additional forms: www.tcda.net

2015 TCDA Convention/Clinic ● San Antonio, Texas HOTEL RESERVATION FORM : ates

D nce — e r e f 3 Con July 2 2015 , 6 2 July

TO SECURE YOUR HOTEL CHOICE AND RECEIVE IMMEDIATE CONFIRMATION, MAKE YOUR RESERVATION ONLINE at www.tcda.net.

Reservation Cutoff Date: June 24, 2015 WAYS TO RESERVE YOUR HOTEL ROOM ● Online: www.tcda.net ● Fax: 210-207-6702 ● Mail: TCDA Housing Bureau, 203 S. St. Mary’s St., Ste. 200, San Antonio, TX 78205 Select Hotels: Rooms are assigned first come/first served. If choices are not available, a room will be secured at a hotel based on your preference of rate or proximity, and availability. Use code only, not numbers. See Hotel Listing for rates and codes.

1st Choice: _______

2nd Choice: _______

3rd Choice: _______

4th Choice: _______

If hotel choices are sold out, which is more important: Room Rate: _______

Location: _______

Reservation will not be processed if form is incomplete. Keep a copy of this form for your records. Do not mail after faxing. Acknowledgements are emailed, providing that an email address is listed on this form. Photocopy this form if you need more than one room.

ARRIVAL DATE: _______________ DEPARTURE DATE: _______________ List ALL OCCUPANTS: 1. ____________________ 2. ____________________ 3. ____________________ 4. ____________________ Do you prefer?: One Bed: __________

Two Beds: __________

SPECIAL REQUEST: ________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________(Room type & special requests based on availability at check in.)

ATTENDEE INFORMATION: (REQUIRED) __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ FIRST NAME MI LAST NAME __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ AFFILIATION / INSTITUTION __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ STREET ADDRESS OR P.O. BOX NUMBER __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY STATE COUNTRY ZIP CODE __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ *DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER *FAX NUMBER (*if international, please indicate country & city code) ROOM GUARANTEE: All rooms must be guaranteed with either a credit card (valid through July, 2015) or check. Reservations will not be accepted without guarantee. If you choose to mail a check deposit, make it payable to TCDA Housing in the amount of $200 and mail along with your housing form to the address provided above. Check deposits must be received by no later than May 25, 2015.

Type of card: Visa __________ MasterCard __________ American Express __________ Discover __________ Card Number: ________________________________________ Exp. Date: _______________ CHANGES / CANCELLATIONS: All cancellations must be received by the TCDA Housing Bureau on or before May 25, 2015 to avoid a penalty. Any cancellations received after May 25, 2015 will be assessed a $50 cancellation fee. Continue to use TCDA Housing for all changes and cancellations through July 1, 2015. Beginning July 2, 2015, contact your hotel directly. All cancellations must be received at least 72 hours prior to arrival or one night’s room & tax will be assessed. Some hotels do require a nonrefundable 1st night’s room & tax deposit after July 1, 2015. If this applies, the credit card provided will be charged of that amount.

NOTE: ALL SUITES must be requested in writing to the TCDA Housing Bureau via email at housing@visitsanantonio.com, or fax 210-207-6702.

Please contact the TCDA Housing Bureau should you have any additional questions: 210-207-6734

2 0 1 5 CO N V E N T I O N H O U S I N G I N F O R M AT I O N Hotel

Address

Code

Rates

Cont. Breakfast

Parking/Day

by Marriott 1 Courtyard San Antonio Riverwalk

207 N. St. Mary’s Street

CMR

$122.00

N/A

$15.00

2 Crockett Hotel

320 Bonham

HIC

$122—$142

Free

$20 Valet

3 Grand Hyatt San Antonio

600 E. Market St.

GRH

$147.00

N/A

$25 / Self $35 Valet

4 Hilton Palacio del Rio

200 S. Alamo

HPR

$147—$183

N/A

$29 / Self $42/ Valet

5 Holiday Inn Market Square

318 W. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. (formerly Durango)

HIM

$93.00

N/A

Free

Quinta Inn & Suites 6 La Convention Center/Riverwalk

303 Blum

LQC

$133—$153

Free

$21 / Self $25 Valet

7 Marriott Plaza San Antonio

555 S. Alamo

PLZ

$139—$188

N/A

$10 / Self $29 Valet

8 Menger Hotel

204 Alamo Plaza

MEN

$120—$135

N/A

$25 Valet

9 Residence Inn by Marriott Alamo

425 Bonham

RIAP

$122 .00

Free

$15.00

10 San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter 101 Bowie

MRC

$163—$209

N/A

$25 / Self $33 / Valet

11 San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk

711 E. Riverwalk

SAM

$153—$179

N/A

$25 / Self $33 Valet

12 Staybridge Suites Sunset Station

123 Hoefgen Ave.

STAY

$128.00

Free

$10 Per Reservation

9

1 8

2 6

4

11

10 3

5

12 7

See Featured Clinicians and Conductors on pages 18–19: Brad Bouley James Franklin Lee Gwozdz Susan LaBarr Andrea Ramsey Lupe Rivera Sandra Snow Betsy Cook Weber

Jeb Mueller

Monica Muscato

Jennifer Patterson

Mary Jane Phillips

Debbie Pilgrim

Terry Price

Angela Ramsey

Amanda Ransom

Kevin Riehle

Melissa Roth

Sally Schott

Debra Scroggins

Christina Svec

Phyllis Thomas

Lynette Vincent

Josh Brown

Carolyn Cruse

Michele Dial

Kammi Estelle

Kristen Gossett

Joni Jensen

George Martin

Joey Martin

Janwin Overstreet-Goode

David Rives

Kay Sherrill

Andrea Snouffer

Diana Taylor

Harry Wooten

Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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Jeanna Baibos

Debby Barkey

Christie Bean

Carl Braden

Clinton Bray

Thomas Froehlich

Stephanie Hicks

Stephen Holcomb

Patricia Neighbors

Jill Norwood

Sigurd Øgaard

Marie Rogers

Ed Snouffer

Peter Steenblik

Stefanie Stephens

Will Varner

Jennifer Zaccagni

Advanced Choral Conducting Workshop June 22–24, 2015

Support Future Choral Directors All Year Round

Give to the TCDA Scholarship Funds Join us in Kansas City for a workshop focusing on conducting technique for the choral conductor. Current high school and university faculty as well as graduate students in conducting are invited to enroll.

Faculty: Robert Bode, Director of Choral Studies, UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance Pamela Elrod, Director of Choral Activities, Southern Methodist University Eph Ehly, Professor Emeritus, UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance

conservatory.umkc.edu/festivals

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Texas Sings! · Spring 2015

Our Future Choral Directors Thank You! www.tcda.net for details and online contributions

PRESIDENT-ELECT K A R I

G I L B E R T S O N

Here’s your invite! Your real, live “Friend Request” at the 60th Anniversary TCDA Convention!

I

n this age of technology and social media, is it really necessary to attend a convention like TCDA? Unequivocally, the answer is YES!!! The professional connections that I made at my first TCDA are still connections and dear friends that I rely on today, nearly 20 years later. That first year, I was nervous and seriously broke, but I was told that this was where I would meet the most important people in our state and field…and they were right.

What are some good reasons to start saving now for the 60th Anniversary TCDA Convention?

• The chance to network in person and meet people. Real, face to face meetings with idols, with friends, and with future mentors. Today, we all have the ability to make positive, professional connections using digital technology. We’re able to connect, collaborate, and share information easily and quickly—there’s no denying that. Yet, there’s something powerful about meeting your online contacts face to face, something that serves you well. And this year, you can sing with those friends and the incomparable Sandra Snow in the 60th Anniversary TCDA Director’s Chorus! Register online now!

• The chance for people to meet YOU! We all have talents to share and keeping our profession and professionals requires both new, forward thinking ideas as well as tried and true traditions. No

two conventions are the same, and you don’t want to miss a thing! Make it an annual event.

• Meeting vendors who will educate you on their latest and greatest products, services, and technology. You may find new tools you were unaware of, tools that could provide a solution to problems you’re facing in your classroom. And new music from publishers and tried and true music.

We all have access to great technology that lets us hear recordings of music online, but there is something very different about being in a room of directors and hearing how the piece sounds live and the “vibe” in the room that comes from a great new find!

• Fun! People who include fun and relaxation in their lives tend to be happier, healthier, and less stressed. Think of meeting with friends, old and new, as an investment in your well-being. There is something to be said for getting out of your summer schedule and getting away from your daily routine.

You can’t put a value on the above reasons to attend, and you can’t get a better value than TCDA for making connections. So leave the virtual world and connect for real at this summer’s historic convention! I look forward to seeing you all in San Antonio soon!

clinic in San Antonio and proposed TCDA move its convention to San Antonio • February 1958 TMEA Convention The Choral Division passed a motion (Herbert Teat presiding) to move the TCDA convention to San Antonio to follow TBA. Officers elected: Bev Henson, President; J.B. Furrh, Vice President; J. F. Lenzo, Jr.,

Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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Texas Choral Directors Association

60th Annual Convention • July 23–26, 2015 • San Antonio TENTATIVE Abbreviated Schedule – Please visit our website for additional details

Exhibits Open: Friday 7/24 & Saturday 7/25 9 am–5 pm, Sunday 7/26 9 am–12 pm Childcare Available: Thursday 7/23 10 am–10 pm, Friday 7/24 & Sat 7/25 7:30 am–10 pm, Sun 7/26 8 am–12 pm

Thursday, July 23 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

Exhibitor Setup

7:00 am 8:30 am – 6:00 pm 9:30 am 11:00 am – 1:00 pm 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm 1:30 pm – 6:30 pm 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

TBA/TCDA/TODA Fun Run New Teacher Academy Golf Tournament, Republic Golf Course TMAA Executive Committee TMEA EL Region Chair Luncheon/Training Registration/Hospitality Open TMAA Committee on Standards of Adjudication & Performance Practices UIL Choral Sight Reading Committee Directors Chorus Sectionals TCDA Ways & Means Committee MS/JH Honor Choir Registration Schubert Mass in G Sing-In Closed Rehearsal with Orchestra UIL Vocal & Orchestra PML Committee MS/JH Honor Choir Sectionals (additional rehearsals in full schedule) TMAA Vocal Workshop Schubert Mass in G Sing-In (families and guests welcome) TCDA Soiree Texas Master Chorale Closed Rehearsal

7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Registration/Hospitality Open

8:00 am – 9:00 am 8:00 am – 9:00 am 8:00 am – 9:00 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 10:30 am – 11:30 am 10:30 am – 11:30 am 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm 1:45 pm – 2:45 pm 1:45 pm – 2:45 pm 1:45 pm – 2:45 pm 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Workshop 1: EL – Sing, Play, Move and Create: Listen and Learn with the Masters Reading Session 1: MS/JH/HS – Pop/Jazz Reading Session 2: CH – Sacred Unison/2 part Workshop 2: CH – Tried and True; Youth Choirs and Small Church Choirs Workshop 3: EL – Mi So La or Do Re Mi: A Music Learning Sequence for Older Beginners Reading Session 3: MS/JH Treble Reading Session 4: HS – SATB Workshop 4: COL/CM – Bilingual Conducting Workshop 5: HS – Re-HEAR-Sal: Connecting Inner Hearing with Meaningful Choral Teaching Strategies Reading Session 5: EL – Unison/SA Workshop 6: CH – Concert Series: A Win-Win! Reading Session 6: EL/MS/JH Holiday/Seasonal Reading Session 7: Adv HS/COL Workshop 7: MS/JH – It’s My Party Workshop 8: HS – What Not to Wear Reading Session 8: CH – Sacred Advanced Workshop 9: COL/CM – Ideas and Strategies for Creative Programming

Friday, July 24

Secretary-Treasurer • 1958 The Texas Choirmaster was first published. Its editor was Al Skoog • August 20–22 1958 Third TCDA Annual Reading Clinic was held (for the first time) in San Antonio at the Gunter Hotel. 150 members attended with 12 exhibitors. Two new officers elected: Al Skoog, Historian-Parliamentarian;

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Texas Sings! · Spring 2015

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm 5:15 pm – 6:45 pm 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Workshop 10: EL – Tried and Proven Workshop 11: MS/JH – Dr. Who: Prescriptions for Common Choir Ailments Performance: Texas Master Chorale Texas Music Administrators Conference Open Roundtable Directors Chorus Rehearsal Worship Service – Featuring the Corpus Christi Cathedral Choir

Saturday, July 25 7:00 am – 4:00 pm

Registration/Hospitality Open

8:00 am – 9:00 am 8:00 am – 9:30 am 8:00 am – 9:00 am 8:00 am – 9:00 am 8:00 am – 9:30 am 8:30 am – 4:30 pm 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:45 am – 10:45 am 10:45 am – 11:45 am 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm 12:00 pm – 1:15 pm 1:00 pm – 2:15 pm 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm 1:15 pm – 2:15 pm 1:15 pm – 2:15 pm 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Workshop 12: EL – Building a Successful Choir Program through the use of a Summer Choir Camp Workshop 13: MS/JH – iChoir Because iCan Workshop 14: HS – Exploring the 2015-2016 All-State Choir Repertoire Workshop 15: CH – Networking Session TMEA Audition Tabulation Training High School Student Leadership Day Workshop 16: COL/CM – The Well-Tempered Choir Workshop 17: CH – Creative Writing 101: A Conversation with Texas Composers Reading Session 9: HS Treble/Men TMEA TMAC Assessment Meeting TMEA Region Meetings Workshop 18: CH – Make Our Garden Grow Workshop 19: EL – Singing + Moving = Student Engagement Reading Session 10: MS/JH Boys Directors Chorus Rehearsal Reading Session 11: Adv/JH/HS Training Past Presidents Luncheon Workshop 20: EL – Technology in the Elementary Music Classroom Reading Session 12: CH Sacred General UIL 101: Truths & Myths Workshop 21: EL – Boys and Girls Come out to Play Workshop 22: HS – Discovering the “dna” Embedded in a Musical Work TMEA JH/MS Band, Choir, Orchestra Coordinators Meeting TCDA Business Meeting (attendees eligible for drawings) – Performance: MS/JH Honor Choir Concert Special Anniversary Performance: HOME FREE

8:00 am – 10:00 am

Hospitality Open

8:00 am – 9:00 am 8:00 am – 9:00 am 8:00 am – 9:00 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 9:15 am – 10:15 am 10:30 am – 11:30 am 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Workshop 23: EL – Improvise and Explore! Vocal Development in Early Elementary Workshop 24: COL/CM – Roundtable Reading Session 13: HS – Holiday/Seasonal Workshop 25: HS – Principles of Effective Choral Leadership Workshop 26: EL, MS/JH – Embracing the Non-Auditioned Chorus Directors Chorus Closed Rehearsal Performance: Directors Chorus UIL Music Advisory Committee TCDA Board Meeting

Sunday, July 26

and Karl Hickfang, Sergeant-at-Arms • August 19–21, 1959 Fourth TCDA Annual Reading Clinic was held in San Antonio. An Elementary Division was officially established. Member dues were $2.00 • August 24–26, 1960 Fifth TCDA Annual Reading Clinic was held in San Antonio with record attendance by members,

Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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CONVENTION Fun Run (New) Thursday, July 23, 7:00 am

Sponsored by TBA for many years, TCDA members are invited to join in. Meet in front of Convention Center on corner of Alamo and Market. Register on-site $10.

Golf Tournament (New Fee and New Location)

Thursday, July 23, 9:30 am Republic Golf Course – Fee $50

Sing-In Concert of Schubert’s Mass in G Thursday, July 23, 5:00 pm

Back by popular demand, our encore Sing-In will be conducted by Dr. Betsy Cook Weber. Join us in performing Schubert’s Mass in G.

New Teacher Academy

Thursday, July 23, 9:00 am–6:00 pm (8:30 am check-in) Designed for new directors, those with limited teaching experience, and directors new to Texas. Classroom Management/ Discipline; Student Motivation; The Art of Teaching Music; Overview of TMEA, UIL and TEA; and more. Closing Session with Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser. Lunch included.

Texas Master Chorale Friday, July 24, 4:00 pm

The Texas Master Chorale is an ensemble of auditioned vocalists performing in NW Harris County. Founded

by Conductor and Artistic Director Brad Bouley, the Chorale has performed at many venues in the north Houston area, including Festival Hill in Round Top, The Centrum, the Wortham Center, and tours to Italy, Germany, France, Holland and Austria.

TCDA Worship Service featuring the Corpus Christi Cathedral Choir Our Hope for Years to Come Friday, July 24, 7:00 pm The Cathedral Music Ministry of Corpus Christi serves the Cathedral Parish, the Concert Series, the Diocese, and the Television Ministry, with more than seven choirs and a 250+ membership of volunteers.

The Music Director is Lee Gwozdz and the Assistant Conductor is Guadalupe Rivera, Jr. The Choir served his Holiness Pope John Paul II (now Saint John Paul II) in the Papal Masses in San Antonio in 1987, at the Feast of Corpus Christi in Rome in 1993, at World Youth Day in Denver in 1993, and at a Basilica fundraising concert at St. John Lateran in Rome in 2004.

advertisers and exhibitors. 67 elementary teachers joined TCDA with attendance over the 200 mark for the first time • 1964 Michael Johnstone was appointed Business Manager for TCDA, handling advertising and physical arrangements. The Texas Choirmaster ended in August 1964. TCDA voted to adopt the ACDA Choral

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Texas Sings! · Spring 2015

HIGHLIGHTS 6th Annual High School Student Leadership Day Saturday, July 25, 8:30 am–4:30 pm (Registration Deadline: June 12)

9:30–11:45 am Jeremy Spicer, CEO, SASI, Solutions and Specialized Innovations . . . the Leadership People

MS/JH Honor Choir Saturday, July 25, 4:00 pm

The 2015 Honor Choir features Dr. Andrea Ramsey, associate director of choral studies and assistant professor of conducting at the University of Colorado at Boulder. The Honor Choir will perform a premiere commissioned work by conductor and composer Dominick DiOrio.

11:45–1:00 pm Lunch/Visit the Exhibit Hall 1:00–1:30 pm

TMEA All-State Process with TMEA Vocal Division VP

1:30–2:00 pm

Dr. James Franklin, SHSU Director of Choral Activities. Choir Rehearsal: Best Practices.

2:00–2:30 pm

Dr. Nicole Franklin, SHSU Voice Faculty. Vocal Health Tone Masterclass.

2:30–3:30 pm

Susan LaBarr. Composer Spotlight.

3:30–4:30 pm

Visit the Exhibit Hall.

60th Anniversary Celebration

Saturday, July 25, following Annual Business Meeting Join us for TCDA’s 60th Birthday Party, complete with singing, cake, balloons, streamers, and more!

Performance

by Home Free Saturday, July 25, 8:00 pm

Join us for a special performance

by Home Free, a popular country a cappella band. Tickets required (every convention registrant receives 1 ticket). Additional tickets pre-purchased on-line or onsite (first come, first serve).

Directors Chorus Sunday, July 26, 10:30 am

Dr. Sandra Snow will conduct the 2015 Directors Chorus. Dr. Snow is a professor of choral conducting and music education in the Michigan State University College of Music. Composed of TCDA members, the Chorus will perform a premiere commissioned work by composer Susan LaBarr. Registration Deadline: June 1. Fee $35.

Journal as its official publication • August 1966 Marvin Pollard was appointed Executive Secretary • 1969 The Palacio Hilton charged $12 for a single and $16 for a double • 1978 A record 837 members attended the 1978 convention • July 31, 1980 TCDA celebrated its 25th Anniversary • Fall 1984 Dan Wood joined

Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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Performance Tours Music Festivals Cruises ©DISNEY

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Call Toll Free: 877-290-6777 or visit us on the web www.SummitTourTravel.com Fax All Requests To: 407-290-9775

2015 TCDA GENERAL BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES Thursday, February 12, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center Ballroom A President Billy Talley called the meeting to order.

•

The following candidates for office were announced: • • •

Middle School/Junior High VP: Tammy Benton (Midway MS), Connie Horton (McCulloch JH), and Carisa Niemeyer (Forest Meadow JH) High School VP: Brandon Farren (Canyon HS), David Landgrebe, (Spring HS) and Thomas Rinn (Colleyville-Heritage HS) Secretary-Treasurer: Davina Hendrix (Pflugerville HS), Leigh Ann McClure (Central HS), and Theresa Whatley (Austin Academy).

• • • •

Billy gave the following announcements: •

• • • • •

Attendance is encouraged at this year’s ACDA National Conference in Salt Lake City February 25-28. Recognition given to the Headliner performances and special recognition to the Texas groups performing at ACDA and the directors of these groups: • Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts Singing Girls of Texas Training Choir (Ian Young) • West Middle School Varsity Treble Choir (Andrea Snouffer) • Cypress Falls High School Varsity Women (Deidre Douglas) • University of North Texas Jazz Singers (Jennifer Barnes) • Baylor University A Cappella Choir (Alan Raines) The 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary of TCDA will be celebrated July 23-26 in San Antonio. Highlights include: New Teacher Academy on Thursday, July 23 MS/JH Honor Choir under direction of Andrea Ramsey with commissioned work by Dominick DiOrio Performance by Texas Master Chorale directed by Brad Bouley Friday night Worship Service featuring the Corpus Christi Cathedral Choir, with conductors Lee Gwozdz and Lupe Rivera

• • • •

• • • • •

60th Anniversary Directors Chorus under direction of Sandra Snow, premiering a commissioned work by composer Susan LaBarr during their Sunday morning concert Sing-In of Schubert’s Mass in G (bring your own score). Dr. Betsy Cook Weber will conduct with an orchestra of TODA and TBA members.

Golf Tournament: Reduced cost of $50 and new location at Republic Golf Club Fun Run to be held the 1st morning of convention at 7:00 am Terrific line-up of our own Texas choral directors bringing relevant workshops to energize your teaching. Nine workshops for Elementary 13 new music reading sessions for all levels and choirs Our 6th Annual High School Day to be held Saturday, July 25.

No BBQ in 2015 Don’t miss the Saturday evening entertainment by Home Free.

TCDA convention registrants receive one free ticket, with option to purchase up to three additional tickets at $15 each. Students attending High School Day may purchase tickets for $10.

Scholarships available again this year for both college students and choral directors. Application deadline: April 24 at tcda.net.

Nominate your colleagues for the Choral Excellence Award and the Young Director of Distinction Award at tcda.net.

On-line application for Directors Chorus and Honor Choir may be made on the TCDA website. First-come, first-serve basis.

We are moving to on-line voting for TCDA Board elections. Voting available for all TCDA Active Members at website Please renew your membership and register for convention before July 1st. It will save you valuable time on-site.

Meeting adjourned.

TCDA as Executive Secretary. The TCDA Office opened in Austin. All membership/convention registration duties moved from Secretary-Treasurer to Executive Secretary • 1984 TCDA published Texas Sings! for the first time, due mostly to the efforts of Nick Boltz. Texas Sings! remains the official publication of TCDA

Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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offerings by Division

2015 Convention

Clinics to Energize, Motivate, and Keep Teaching Relevant: Elementary – by Michele Hobizal Some of the best that Texas has to offer will be in San Antonio to fill your plate with elementary galore!

Tried and Proven is back this year with some of the state’s top elementary choir directors presenting their favorite pieces: Becky Knox, Debra Johnson and Angela Ramsey. Well-known choir director Cyndie Lowry will take you through the steps of Building a Successful Choir Program through the Use of a Summer Choir Camp. The Texas Gulf Coast Orff Association secretary Jennifer Patterson will incorporate Orff techniques and instruments with her session: Boys and Girls Come Out to Play! Dr. Lynette Vincent has a much needed workshop dealing with solfège and the older students with: Mi So La or Do Re Mi: A Music Learning Sequence for Older Beginners. Kristen Bugos will show you how to successfully teach using the masters with her session: Sing, Play, Move & Create: Listen and Learn with the Masters. Amazing early childhood clinician Christina Svec has an action packed session: Improvise and Explore! Vocal Development in Early Elementary. She LOVES to improvise! Phyllis Thomas, a leading educator in elementary music technology, will leave you wanting more with her session: Technology in the Elementary Music Room: What’s in Your Tool Kit? The wonderful and witty Michael Chandler has a great session: Singing + Moving = Student Engagement! Don’t forget to purchase your tickets for Home Free. The elementary division just keeps getting better and better.

Middle School/Junior High – by Jennifer Gallagher TRAGIC. That’s what life will be if you miss out on this summer’s convention! Come be inspired by the fantastic Andrea Ramsey as she leads our 2015 MS/JH Honor Choir, with a commissioned piece by Dominick DiOrio. In addition to her work with the honor choir, Ramsey will also present Embracing the Non-Auditioned Chorus: Dumping Ground, or Land of Opportunity? As a music major, I bet you didn’t realize you would also be a party planner! Join Kelly McDonald, Clinton Hardy, Ashley Delaney & Ange Goins in the workshop It’s My Party—tips and tricks on planning trips, hosting parties & creating games! In the innovative 90-minute session, iChoir because iCan, you’ll rotate to different stations and choose to “download” the information that is most relevant to your program needs. Topics range from recruitment, assessment, organization, sight-reading, repertoire selection & much more! Station presenters include: Amy Moore, Monica Muscato, Courtney Kelly, Lorelai Cole, Melissa Roth, Amanda Ransom, Mary Jane Phillips, Jennie Crawford & Debbie Pilgrim. Moderated by Sally Schott, Dr. Who: Prescriptions for Common Choir Ailments will feature Jenny Hafernik, Jeb Mueller, Dominick DiOrio & Bethany Stuard as the “doctors” who will offer practical solutions for struggling choral technique, clearer conducting & encouraging student engagement during rehearsals. We can’t wait to see you in San Antonio for the 60th Anniversary party!

• Fall 1988 Glenda Casey, President, announced the establishment of the TCDA Scholarship Fund • July 25–28, 2005 TCDA celebrated its 50th Anniversary • Summer 2011 Sharon Lutz joined TCDA as Executive Director • 2015 On its 60th Anniversary, TCDA boasts a membership of over 1700, with representation throughout the state of Texas and a strong cadre of out-of-state choral directors attending convention

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Texas Sings! · Spring 2015

High School – by Robin Brockway-Nichols In celebration of TCDA’s “Diamond Jubilee” the High School Division will present a sparkling array of choral gems designed to add some bling to your teaching toolbox! Josh Brown, David Rives, Kay Sherrill, and Janwin Overstreet–Goode will conduct new-music reading sessions with the assistance of Dr. Stephen Holcomb, Debby Barkey, Jennifer Zaccagni, and Christie Bean at the piano. Choral superstar Dr. Sandra Snow will present two inspiring workshops: Re-HEAR-Sal: Connecting Inner Hearing with Meaningful Choral Teaching Strategies and Discovering the DNA Embedded in a Musical Work: Approaches to Creative, Engaged, and Dynamic Choral Rehearsals. Dr. Snow will also rehearse and conduct the 60th Anniversary Directors’ Chorus. Dr. Frank F. Eychaner brings us Principles of Effective Choral Leadership: Knowing Ourselves, Impacting Others. Newly-elected TMEA Vocal Vice President, Dr. Bob Horton, will lead us through a discussion of the 2015-2016 All-State Choir Repertoire, and a panel of choral supermodels from throughout the state will present a discussion and fashion show: What Not to Wear for Choral Directors: A 21st Century Update, moderated by Amy Allibon. Be sure to check tcda.net for convention updates and the latest news. No doubt your plans are well under way to attend this summer’s GLITTERING convention!

College/Community – by Lynne Gackle You won’t want to miss our Encore “Sing-In” complete with a full orchestra (compliments of TODA), featuring Schubert’s Mass in G with Dr. Betsy Weber as conductor. Be sure to bring your score (G. Schirmer) and join in the fun just prior to the Soiree! Rick Bjella will present a session on Ideas and Strategies for Creative Programming. The Well-Tempered Choir will be the topic of a session by Dr. James Franklin. Dr. Charles Hausmann’s Bilingual Conducting: Connecting Voices and Instruments through Culture Specific Vocabulary, will discuss ways of improving communication between the choral director and the orchestra - you won’t want to miss this session which will provide excellent ideas about speaking “both ‘chorus’ and ‘orchestra!” Another convention highlight will feature student conductors from 19 institutions, taking the podium to conduct the Advanced JH/HS Reading Session. Coaches for the student conductors’ workshops will include Joni Jensen and Joey Martin. Carl Braden and Peter Steenblik will serve as accompanists for the coaching sessions as well as for the reading sessions. Carolyn Cruse will serve as the clinician for the Advanced HS/College Reading Session and Sigurd Øgaard will serve as the accompanist for this session. There will be many pieces in the session that will be of great interest to conductors of collegiate, community and high school choirs. We will again feature A Conversation with Conductors and other Colleagues on Sunday morning. The panel will include our clinicians as well as our conducting coaches. Please come and listen to these leaders in the field as they discuss their ideas on various topics regarding choral music. Lastly, our featured performance will be presented by the Texas Master Chorale with Brad Bouley, Artistic Director/Conductor. Founded in 1986, this choir is a mixed choral ensemble of 100 auditioned singers from Tomball, Texas, and their program will be of interest to the entire membership! The fifth annual First Year Teacher Academy will again be offered to teachers beginning their teaching careers in the Fall of 2015, those with limited teaching experience and directors NEW to Texas. Also, remember there is 50% convention registration discount offered to all first year teachers joining TCDA.

Church – by Joshua Taylor Don’t miss the church division sessions at this year’s TCDA convention! All church division events are scheduled Thursday-Saturday to allow folks to make it home for worship on Sunday morning, if necessary. Friday night’s worship service, Our Hope for Years to Come: A Hymn Festival, will feature the Corpus Christi Cathedral Choir under the direction of Lee Gwozdz and Lupe Rivera and service organist, Thomas F. Froehlich. As always, workshops will offer helpful hints and useful information for church musicians across the spectrum! Tried & True: Youth Choirs & Small Church Choirs will be led by Chris Crook, Sid Davis, and Robyn Hollimon. Composers Taylor Davis, Kinley Lange, and Debra Scroggins will share their insights to the creative process in Creative Writing 101: A Conversation with Texas Composers. Dave Collett, Dana Effler, Greg Hobbs, and Kevin Riehle will discuss ways that your church music and arts ministries can provide meaningful outreach to the community in Concert Series: A Win-Win! Developing and Sustaining an Outreach Music Program. Terry Price shares his insights on recruiting for the church ensemble in Make Our Garden Grow.

Along with the Sacred Music Reading Sessions conducted by Diana Taylor (Sacred Unison/2-Part), Kristen Gossett (Sacred General), and Harry Wooten (Sacred Advanced) accompanied by Stephanie Hicks, Marie Rogers, and Clinton Bray, you’ll want to be there for the 60th Anniversary celebration!

Spring 2015 · Texas Sings!

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