AMEA October Newsletter
Arizona Music Educators Association
HONORING OUR PROFESSION by AMEA President Jennifer Hamilton
SOMEONE WHO IS AN INSPIRATIONAL AND EXCEPTIONAL TEACHER?
Please take a few minutes to honor them and complete a nomination for the Hall of Fame Awards.
Particularly in the field of music education, with its long hours and extra demands, it is important that we take time to recognize and thank those who have mentored and helped us. I have the great fortune of seeing my high school band director from Georgia, Mr. Charlie Brodie, at the Midwest Clinic every December. He inspired me to pursue my passion for music, and in my 22nd year as a high school band / orchestra director, I am still grateful for his encouragement, as well as the life skills and musicianship that he taught me. There are many Arizona music teachers whom I rely on for advice and support, who are always willing to talk and share their knowledge. We are fortunate to have such a thriving musical network!
If there is an AZ music teacher for whom you admire and are grateful, take FIVE MINUTES to write a RECOMMENDATION LETTER, and ask one other AMEA member to do the same.
Thank you for paying tribute to our deserving teachers.
AZ MUSIC EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR:
The highest honor bestowed by AMEA, the Music Educator of the Year personifies the goals and visions of AMEA and exemplifies excellence in teaching, leadership, and advocacy for music and arts education in Arizona.
Nomination Requirements: 2 letters of recommendation
THE O.M. HARTSELL EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AWARD:
This award is given to up to five members annually who have demonstrated exceptional ability as a teacher of music and exhibit dedication to a comprehensive music education program.
Nomination Requirements: 2 letters of recommendation
OUTSTANDING ADMINISTRATOR AWARD:
This award recognizes administrators who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and significant leadership in support of music education.
Nomination Requirements: 1 letter of recommendation
GEORGE C. WILSON LEADERSHIP/SERVICE AWARD:
This award is presented to a member who has rendered an exceptional amount of service and has demonstrated strong leadership in the Association.
Nomination Requirements: 1 letter of recommendation
WILLIAM E. RICHARDSON RETIRED MEMBER SERVICE AWARD:
This award recognizes those retired members who continue to give faithful service to the organization.
Nomination Requirements: 1 letter of recommendation
DESCRIPTION, SELECTION CRITERIA, LINK TO THE NOMINATION FORM (WHICH INCLUDES PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS) INCLUDED ON THE LINKS ABOVE:
CONFERENCE CORNER: What's new for 2017
THIS YEAR'S AMEA CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 3 - 4, 2017 AT THE PHOENIX MARRIOTT MESA. REGISTRATION INFORMATION available HERE
WHAT'S NEW FOR 2017?
OPEN FORUM SESSIONS will feature a panel of experts, but the format will encourage dialogue, participation, and questions from the attendees. A handout with specific ideas, suggestions, and effective strategies for implementation will be provided. THIS YEAR'S OPEN FORUM TOPICS WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
A Vibrant Music program for Today: Ideas to Balance and Diversify your music program
- Hidden Gems: WORTHY Grade 3 & 4 Literature for High School Band & Orchestra
- Band Instrument Tips: This expert panel will solve your problems with any instrument!
- Everything ESSA: What you NEED to know about the Every Student Succeeds Act
- K-6 Music on a Budget: how to have a successful general music program on a shoestring budget
- Creating a positive & successful classroom environment
ADMINISTRATOR CLINIC: This year's conference will feature A FREE CLINIC FOR ADMINISTRATORS on how to evaluate music teachers (on FRIDAY from 11:30 - 12:30) Click HERE for the registration link.
GUIDEBOOK CONFERENCE APP: AMEA is excited about next year's conference app entitled Guidebook. This will replace the printed program and enhance the conference experience. The app will provide:
- ability to build your own customizable schedule
- setup personalized reminders about your schedule
- receive important live updates
- quick-reference PDFs of clinic handouts will be available on the app
- interactive map for all conference sessions
HS Registration Deadline for Regional Auditions and Solo & Ensemble NOVEMBER 18
For more information, reference AMEA Activities Handbook p. 90 - 106
REGISTRATION TIPS:
Prior to the deadline (maybe the week of Nov 7 - 11) post one copy of solo & ensemble entries in your room and have your students make sure the entries are correct. This places the responsibility of a correct entry on to the students, not you.
What is the performance time limit?
10-minute time limit for solos and small ensembles.
15-minute time limit for large ensembles (minimum of 10 and maximum of 24 members)
Is there a required list from which repertoire must be selected?
1) Quality repertoire is encouraged for festival performance.
2) It is recommended but not required that Solo and Ensemble Literature be selected from the Texas UIL Prescribed Music List (https://www.utexas.edu/uil/pml/browse); the Virginia PML; or the Florida PML for performance.
3) A rating WILL NOT be given if pop music or “Broadway” show tunes are performed.
Does my student need an accompanist?
Solo literature that is published with accompaniments MUST BE ACCOMPANIED WHEN PERFORMED. Students are allowed to use recorded accompaniments providing he or she provides their own equipment.
Is an original score needed?
YES, with measures numbered, or the rating will be lowered one rating, unless a letter from the publisher granting permission to photocopy is provided.
Will verbal comments from the adjudicator be provided?
Only if time permits within the performance time limits.
How does my student qualify for Tier 2?
HS State Solo & Ensemble Honor Festival (Tier 2) participation is available to all student
events receiving a “Superior” rating at the State Solo & Ensemble Festival (Tier 1).
How is Tier 2 different from Tier 1?
Tier 2 will be electronically submitted, with a submission window of January 28 - February 28. Adjudicators, the State Solo and Ensemble Chair, and the Solo and Ensemble Area Coordinators will then select the 2-4 most outstanding performances to present in The AMEA Solo and Ensemble “Showcase” (Tier 3) recital at the 2017 AMEA HS All State Festival.
Does the director need to be present?
Directors or a school approve representative must be onsite during their school’s solo
and/or ensemble performance times.
ADVICE ON HOW TO PREPARE STUDENTS BY MOUNTAIN RIDGE HS BAND DIRECTORS George Hattendorf and Michael Warner:
* kids will reflect you, if you are passionate about chamber music, they will take the leap of faith. If not - good luck.
* chamber music experiences only STRENGTHEN full ensemble music and vice versa - it is a win-win situation.
* we are prepping ensembles right now . . . yes, I know it is marching season but get over it!
* encourage varied student involvement, ensembles. We imbed large choirs in almost all of our concert ensembles, WW-Brass-Percussion and factor those into school rehearsal time
* create coaching (check-in) periods for ensembles. We all know that we work best with defined deadlines
* create a "performance" opportunity for them - now that will be a recital experience before Tier 1, most recently that WAS Tier1
* success breeds success - there are additional performance opportunities beyond ABODA/AMEA such as the wonderful program created by Bill Richardson and Arlie DuPlessis with the
Arizona Wind Symphony that include a contest format that can result in a featured performance opportunity and cash prizes!
* don't be afraid to think outside of the box, providing that the ensemble is recognized by ABODA and the UIL
* create an afterschool rehearsal schedule for each ensemble (choir) so that there is a consistent expectation in place.
* don't be afraid to include (recruit) your feeder directors to help with this endeavor. Once buy-in is established, hold on for a wonderful music educational experience.
* literature is rich, if not, arrange - that is what we do. Check with directors (programs) that have an established history with S/E. We will be glad to help and direct you in anyway possible.
PREPARATION TIPS FOR YOUR STUDENTS BY AMEA TRI-M CHAIR Michelle Irvin:
INFORMATION THAT YOU WILL WANT TO GATHER / RELAY PRIOR TO THE JANUARY 21 EVENT:
* TITLE of the solo or ensemble
* COMPOSER of the the solo or ensemble
* REMIND STUDENTS OF THE FOLLOWING:
- Auditions are LIVE this year on January 21st and that they will need to have an accompanist if required
- students must have their measures numbered
- students should be dressed professionally for their performance (attire/appearance will have an effect on their overall performance scoring)
Any other questions about solo & ensemble, please SEND TO JEFF QUAMO, AMEA Solo & Ensemble Chair at jcquamo@mpsaz.org
ABODA Spotlight from President Bill Humbert: Why go to the AMEA In-Service Conference?
What is all of this fanfare and festivity about concerning the AMEA In Service Conference? Is it really a big deal? Should you go? Absolutely you should go. Here is why…
The Sessions
I am sure I do not need to convince anyone the importance of continuing education and our development as teachers. Attending conferences is such a great way to be educated, re-educated, inspired, and challenged. It is easy to be accustomed to our own way of doing things and our favorite teaching materials, but it is so important to hear other points of view and review our own philosophies and methods of teaching.
The Clinicians
Being in the presence of great minds is uplifting. The sessions and topics are great. Where else can you find so many fantastic teachers and performers under one roof? Their wisdom and artistry are like caffeine for the soul – it is energizing and uplifting…maybe even necessary. I feel fortunate every year to be able to once again experience the magic of many amazing clinicians at the conference. This year will be no exception.
The Music
One of the highlights of every conference for me includes the many wonderful concerts showcasing the amazing teaching of our peers. Great music being performed at a high level by amazing students is always a treat…pretty inspiring.
The Vacation
For me, coming to a music conference is also like taking a short vacation… time to get away temporarily from my classroom and school life. Although I love my job, this little break from my daily routine allows me to recharge. I always go home feeling refreshed, I have more enthusiasm, and I am ever more appreciative of my students and my chosen career.
The Freebies
I must also mention that another exciting thing about coming to music conferences is the freebies you get from checking out the vendors. Not only do you get to learn about the latest teaching materials out there, you get to take home many of the featured books, either free of charge or at heavily discounted prices. And…don’t forget the chocolate, cookies, candy, and other yummy treats…do I need to say more?
The Network
Hanging out with colleagues and friends. This is really the best part of all. Smiling, laughing, and exchanging stories and ideas with other teachers is always a highlight. It is a great place to connect or reconnect with other music educators. So…I will see you there, right? Save some chocolate for me.
AzSGM Spotlight from President Anneka Bergstrand
The Arizona Society for General Music (AzSGM) is sponsoring the 4th Annual Student Composition Festival. The festival is open to any student in the state of Arizona enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade. Student composers who submitted a composition in previous years are still welcome to submit a composition this year. Any and all musical styles are welcome for submission. The student composer should submit an audio recording and a visual representation or detailed description of the work. The visual representation can be done using standard or non-standard notation. The application fee required for submission is $10. Each student composer will receive feedback from music tutors and educators from around the state of Arizona. The deadline for submission is Wednesday, November 30, 2016. Select compositions will be featured during the Arizona Music Educators Association's (AMEA's) Conference on Saturday, February 4, 2017. Student composers will be notified no later than Saturday, January 21, 2017 as to whether their compositions will be included on the day of the festival. Please be on the look out for more information via our AzSGM Facebook Page and through the use of our email list. We look forward to hearing works from your student composers!
ELECTIONS ARE COMING UP!
AMEA Board: Renee Shane-Boyd
ABODA Board: Scott Burgener
ACE Board: Camille Coffey
AzSGM Board: Anneka Bergstrand
UPCOMING AMEA DEADLINES
ABODA Deadlines
- Fall Concert Band Festival Registration 10/28
- State Marching Band Championships Registration 11/8
- All-State Jazz Band Live Auditions Registration 11/18
ACE Deadlines
- None at this time
AMEA ELEM / JUNIOR HIGH Deadlines
- 8th Grade All-State Band Online Audition Submission 10/28
- Elem / Junior High All-State 6th & 7th Grade Band Nomination Registration 10/28
- Elem / Junior High All-State Choir & Orchestra Nomination Registration 10/28
- Southern AZ Elem / Junior High Honor Band Nomination 10/28
- Southern AZ Elem / Junior High Honor Orchestra Nomination 10/28
AMEA HIGH SCHOOL Deadlines
- High School Solo & Ensemble Festival Registration 11/18
- Regional Audition Deadline 11/18
DEADLINE FOR AMEA HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS 12/1
DEADLINE FOR AMEA / ABODA / ACE / AzSGM OFFICER NOMINATIONS 12/1
Arizona Music Educators Association
Email: ameapresident@gmail.com
Website: www.azmea.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArizonaMusicEducatorsAssociation/