American School Band Directors Association

Music "Literacy"

2010-12-05T22:01:00.002-06:00

I am working on an informal study on the use of pre-1980 compositions in contemporary concert band programming. If you'd be interested in sharing what you do with your program (did if you are retired) please take the survey. I will post results in the summer 2011.

What Kind Of ASBDA Member Are You?

2010-12-05T21:39:00.003-06:00

this is a repost of the November 2010 issue of the ASBDA Newsletter

I am sure you have heard the saying, “There are three kinds of people in the world: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who say what happened?” I have long pondered why are there members of ASBDA who become inactive so quickly. How can we have such a dichotomy of membership? On one hand a small highly active and motivated group, on the other hand a “resume” group that quickly loses interest and does not seem to be concerned in what we are about or the potential for what we can be for school bands in the 21st century. Over-simplified? Perhaps it is, but I do not believe it is that far off the mark.
In order to answer my question I have looked at the leadership I see in ASBDA, not just those who hold a position in our association but those that hold positions in other organizations in their home state. I have also tried to read and study as many vision statements of state bandmasters (band and orchestra director) associations as I could find online and com-pare them to the ASBDA vision statement. In the spirit of the adage provided to begin this article I have developed a theory that there are three kinds of band directors in the world: those that want to help other band programs strive for excellence, those that provide opportunities for band directors to demonstrate excellence and those that gladly utilize both information and opportunities. What I mean is that there are those who actively seek opportunities to help their peers and young musicians. This can come from sharing ideas and opinions, developing or working on research to solve issues associated with bands, or offering personal assistance. Secondly, many have a knack for organization and the ability to stage a festival where students can demonstrate their ability or combine their talent with others to produce a cooperative performance. Certainly, there are those who excel in both, but for the sake of my argument you should consider this set of leaders as part of the first group. Which one are ASBDA members? Well, I would hope that you would all agree that an ASBDA member is and should belong in group one. Our time, energy and experience are not only used to create our own programs of excellence, we are personally concerned with helping others to do the same. You can see the excitement in our eyes when someone begins to talk about solving problems or digging into issues confronting our profession. This is an outlet that we can find a means of alternative satisfaction. Another set of leaders in the band world are actively involved at a more localized plane. Through the local, district, regional and state level festivals or honor groups, many state associations work very hard to provide quality opportunities for young musicians. These activities are vital and provide important chances for students to seek out their own potential. Many state organizations, as I know you are personally aware, also offer conventions or conferences that help with giving directors a chance to improve the quality of their teaching. However, it seems that much of the focus remains on the planning and implementation of the festivals and conferences/conventions more than resolving the issues that face the school band program. Again, I am not affording any blame or infer a sense of apathy, simply put—it is more a lack of time than commitment. There is solid purpose to those who fall into group two and the reason that I believe we do not and should not feel like we tread on each others toes. We should be collaborative entities working toward making school bands work for the betterment of young band musicians.

I do not care where you are, time is more of a premium than ever before. Everyone is being asked to do more with less and decisions are being made about the amount of time, resources and energy that will be shared with family, work and community. The number of those who have the inclination to be in group one appear to be shrinking, individuals who are active in group two are getting tired or frustrated and lack the time or will to focus on others around them. Those in group three are finding it hard to obtain the time and money to provide their students with the enrichment activities open to them. More generalities? Of course, but once again I doubt that I am that far off the mark.

What is it we can do to help? There has to be a way to find those members who are truly interested in helping others create programs of excellence. They are still out there and we have asked many of them, at one time or another, to join ASBDA. Our problem is that we have not done a good enough job to inform them of how their involvement will not simply help ASBDA but, more importantly, help themselves as well. They will have the chance to help make bands and band directors better in their home states or local regions, not only now but for the foreseeable future as well. Never in human history has information and the ability to communicate been so easily attained. The ease with which we can share concerns and solutions should ultimately make this a perfect time to reaffirm our role in school bands nationwide.
If we do not become more vocal and proactive in what we are as an organization and what we seek to do for school bands in America then recruiting others, regardless of age, experience or quality, will only become more fruitless. There has to be the ability to provide leaders of each state an understanding that state organizations and ASBDA can be symbiotic, that we can both benefit from what each group is designed and dedicated to do and that there is time and energy enough to belong to both. Not only that there is time and energy for both but it is profoundly necessary that we make it a priority to spend time being proactive about our programs. Since, as mentioned before, time is something no one seems to have enough of, this is a difficult task and I wish I could say that I have an answer.

I think we have made great strides recently with changes in our organization and a renewed interest and enthusiasm in research. The executive board is interested in finding ways to let others know who we are and then, even more importantly, what ASBDA is about—something we can all use, as a unified entity, when someone asks what is ASBDA and why should they join. In today’s society image and easy access to information is an expected quality for both business and organizations.

I am confident we will find ways to entice other members to join our cause and actively participate. I am interested in knowing what you think about what I have written here. I will try to post a similar position on the ASBDA blog and you can comment or feel free to email me your thoughts. I hope I have not offended anyone as I truly respect all who work toward creating better school band programs for student musicians to thrive in. I sincerely believe that neither ASBDA nor state associations are better than the other; they are equal partners to the cause.

State Chair Awards

2010-05-11T20:40:00.001-05:00

Reminder: applications for the State Chair awards are in the newsletter (last one, posted on our site) and they have been emailed to those of you on the email list! I need these by THIS Saturday, May 15th! State Chairs: apply for it yourself! You are most likely the one that has kept up with the needed information! If you don't "toot your own horn," who will? Send applications to my home address (all posted on the email or on the newsletter application). Thanks!

Nashville Floods

2010-05-03T17:15:00.002-05:00

Just updates for those of you who enjoyed our city last summer and are familiar with places: The Opryland Hotel, Opryhouse, and Opry Mills are all flooded with several feet of water. The water pumping station in that part of town is also underwater, so pretty serious. Our convention hotel high on the hill is fine, however, the roads getting to it and the MetroCenter/Titans training camp facility is flooded. Downtown, the Cumberland River is at 53 feet now and has not yet crested; currently water is up to around 3rd Avenue (the places some of you "explored" are on 2nd avenue; The Symphony hall basement is flooded and water is up to the Country Music Hall of Fame, but no damage there yet. Downtown Franklin which some of you toured was also hit pretty hard. Schools are out for a 2nd "flood day" tomorrow. Nashville has several schools that were flooded and electricity is off for some segments of the city (compounded by the fact that some of Nash. Electric Service stations and equipment are underwater, so they can't help people). I'm on the "upside" of a hill, but 2 blocks from me is Old Hickory Lake and it flooded several homes on that end. We're going to make it, but it'll take some time to get back to normal! Keep us in your thoughts and prayers!

The importance of Regional Representatives

2010-02-08T12:39:00.002-06:00

The newly revised ASBDA Handbook clearly defines the role of the Regional Reps.
Article VI,5,A - followed by Article VI, 1, E. The intent so stated is a major shift from past practices where the incoming president determined what would be the "thrust" of his/her administration i.e. what course would be pursued during that term in office.

The Reg. Rep. concept mandates that the ideas for ASBDA direction or "program"
come from the regions; are hashed over AND PRIORITIZED by the 5 reps; advance to the executive board and finalized for the association. This then becomes the
ONGOING program of the association and is in fact each incoming presidents
agenda. It does NOT change with a change in the presidency.

Important here is that the executive board cannot override the prioritization of the Reg. Reps. without their combined input and agreement.

We have had divisional input in ASBDA as long as I can remember. It is seldom
if ever that these ideas are ever prioritized and voted on to form ASBDA agendas.
For Reg. Reps. this is a heady responsibility and should include pertinent ideas
representing those areas that are less heard from due to low attendance in past
years. This in an effort to boost attendance in those very districts now having a more focused attention of the association.

teacher assessment/acountability

2010-02-06T11:43:00.000-06:00

Here in TN, so that we will at least appear to be making progress (and gain Federal $$ for education), our Legislature just passed a measure making end of course tests, etc. part of teacher evaluation. For the traditional "academics" that's pretty cut and dry. For those of us outside the box, we're still going to be evaluated on student performance, but no one has figured out how. We are trying to come up with and submit ideas for this (other than, "wow that band director sure wins a lot of marchin' trophies, he must be rite fine!"). If there's anything that your state is doing that works (or doesn't!), please let me know REAL soon. Thanks!

Suggestions Needed

2010-02-02T10:39:00.002-06:00

Does anyone have a tried and true method to teach slow quarter note triplets? I have tried several ways. This is one thing that I still have trouble getting across to my students.

Getting Ready

2010-01-29T09:36:00.002-06:00

Getting ready to make plans for the 2010 ASBDA Convention in Orlando Florida? Me, as well! Information will be coming out shortly as regards how you can reserve your room, what the fun activities the Florida chapter has planned for us, and other important information for the Florida Convention. I know, it's an exciting venue, and we're all anxious, but folks, we'll have to wait just a wee bit longer - more to come soon!

Midwest Clinic Meeting

2010-01-12T09:06:00.009-06:00

Those in attendance at the ASBDA Midwest Clinic meeting had a wonderful time catching up, renewing friendships, hearing about the work of the Association, and getting a chance to meet Frank Tichelli.

Steve King, on behalf of the Goldman/Harding Award Committee and Committee Chair William Svec, presented the Goldman Award to composer Frank Tichelli.

In addition, President Cindy Swan-Eagan gave a report about the Orlando Convention.

President-Elect Monte Dunnum gave an update about the regionalization and voting.

Past President Jeff Phillips gave an update about Curriculum Reform.

Member-At-Large Carole Grooms gave a report about a new project she will be beginning later this year.

In addition, a great breakfast was enjoyed by all, Dennis Hanna gave an update, and much laughter was shared by all. Thanks for being there - until next time!

Cindy Swan-Eagan, President, ASBDA

Membership membership!

2009-12-19T19:07:00.002-06:00

While at Midwest, we had several inquiries about "what is ASBDA" and "how can I become a member." When checking on the states that many are from, I discovered that we only have ACTIVE membership (more than 3 actives in a state) in 19 states! About 6 with no members at any level and many with all retired, emeritus only. In order to make a "national impact" we need to work on this. Make sure that you take the time to find a worthy prospective member! If you're in a state where someone's band just played at Mid-west (or your state convention), there's a great place to start! Remember that the deadline for all paperwork is April 1st (to Sonja). If you need help getting started, let me know. Let's work to correct this percentage!

Curriculum Guide Winner

2009-12-16T09:27:00.002-06:00

Would the person who posted as "Anonymous" (first poster) who would like to give the copy to Terry Treuden, please email me off blog, and I will get the Curriculum Guide to you! Thanks for the post!

As an aside - one of the things that we may run into by having a blog with open posting of comments, is the kind of "spam" comment that you'll see at the same post - we can eliminate those kinds of posts by simply having someone review each and every post that we make prior to having them actually posted on the blog. While we'll work to eliminate the spam comments, but a few may creep in, so please ignore them. We'll keep working to make this blog an open forum where all can contribute.

But, to that end, people need to: 1. Read the blog on a weekly basis & 2. Comment

This week's challenge, in the midst of holiday preparations, MidWest Clinic and a myriad of concerts & celebrations is to tell one other ASBDA member to be sure to read the blog and post a comment. This blog is a much more immediate source of information than our Newsletters, and much cheaper. It can be a great resource, but we will have to learn to use it! Let's encourage each other to get into the habit of checking out the blog.

Did you know that you can "follow" the blog? Then, when a new post appears, you will get an email of that post. In order to read comments, you will have to go to the blog itself, and click on the "comments" at the bottom of the post. Why not consider signing up to be an ASBDA Blog Follower? Check the top of the blog page, and click "Follow." This will allow you to receive each new posting in your email in-box - what could be easier??!!

See you at MidWest!

Cindy Swan-Eagan, President
ASBDA

Curriculum Reform Project

2009-12-03T20:49:00.000-06:00

Please take the following survey to help us gather information for use in the next phase of our ASBDA Curriculum Reform Project.

Click Here to take survey

A note from Roy Holder in Virginia

2009-12-02T06:20:00.001-06:00

This is for all of us; knowing the national reputation and quality of these programs, if they're on the "chopping block" any of us could be. It's time to help out and go beyond our position statement. Please take the time to respond as mentioned at the end of his note!

To one and all:

You may or may not know that Fairfax County, Virginia is in the midst of a huge budget crisis. Very simply put, at this point the entire elementary band and orchestra program is on a list of cuts designed to reduce the 2010-2011 budget. This is not a reduction of staff or a trimming of class time, but the Total Elimination of this crucial program. I am aware that many districts are facing difficult situations and will gladly rally behind any effort to help save programs. What makes the Fairfax situation so important is the fact that this is happening in one of the districts that has served as a leader and example for music programs in many parts of the country. If these cuts were to become reality, many school districts would follow in short order. In an effort to forestall this possibility your help is needed. There is an online petition that needs a minimum of 10,000 signatures to be effective. It takes only a minute and also allows you make comments on the importance of this issue to Fairfax County, the future of music programs or just the importance of music in general.

When you go to the site you will need to scroll down to find the petition and you may need to click on the update link at the bottom of the page. Please take a minute to add your name to the list of music supporters and add a comment.

Other contacts that will be effecting this process include:

Board of Supervisors:
John Cook – braddock@fairfaxciunty.gov
Penelope Gross – mason@fairfaxcounty.gov

School Board:
Kathy Smith - Kathy.L.Smith@fcps.edu
Ilryoun Moon - ilryoun.moon@fcps.edu

Thank you for your support.

Roy Holder, Director of Bands
Lake Braddock High School
NBA Board of Directors High School Representative

Jason Foundation, Inc. and you!

2009-12-01T19:49:00.002-06:00

As I became President of ASBDA in 2007, there were several people that expressed to me their frustration that ASBDA was not offering anything practical for our members. There was also a feeling at that time to increase our presence as a vital organization beyond our membership. Also during that period, I was introduced to my friend, Clark Flatt and his foundation to help prevent teen suicide. An idea: a chance for us to offer our members something practical and lend our support to a national cause. Already working with the Jason Foundation (named for his son, who took his life as a teenager) were groups such as the American High School Football Coaches Association and the High School Wrestling Association. My thoughts after 24+ years in teaching was that as band directors, we are in closer contact with our students (of both sexes, where the football and wrestling programs are primarily geared towards males) and often in our programs, we deal with the same students for several years. If any one group of teachers knows their students and makes an impact on their lives, it is US! They refer to teen suicide as the silent epidemic and while no one wants to talk about it, if you teach long enough, it will effect you or your school in some way. Teens today have a lot a "junk" to deal with. We are the ones on the front lines that can notice changes in behavior and other factors that can allow us to make a real difference.

The training provided by JFI via our website can be used by anyone simply by clicking on the link. Most states now require some type of suicide prevention training as part of yearly professional development. By completing these sessions, you may be able to fulfill this on your own. Even if this is not the case, the things mentioned are needed by teachers and parents of today's students. The goal of JFI is NOT to turn us all into counselors and psychiatric consultants! This is merely to open our eyes to look for collective patterns of behavior that may signal a problem and then allow us to put students in touch with professionals.

I urge all of our membership to go to the link and complete the training modules offered online. There is no cost and again, you can print out certificates of completion at the end which may be used for professional development training (note, some systems require an "in person" workshop, but maybe YOU can set that up through JFI or an affiliate in your area).

Teen suicide is not something we want to discuss, but it has everything to do with our "teaching" as we are responsible for the well being of our students. Our subject is "band," but we're teaching the kids and WE are the ones that see them everyday. I know in my career there have been several "referrals," some which I am sure made the difference. There have also been some that were defiant and parents in denial, but the kids are still around, so in the scheme of things, I know that I did the right thing. And yes, unfortunately, there have been a few that I missed. We can't all see every sign, but if we make a difference in ONE life, then that's worth it.

If you need more information, their site and contacts on their staff are more than helpful. You can also set up parent information links on your school website and they can help you with that. Please let other teachers in your system know about this and they too can access the free training via our www.asbda.com site.

Enjoy living!
Jeff Phillips, Immediate Past President, ASBDA

Posting Challenge Extended

2009-11-30T08:10:00.002-06:00

Okay, folks - let others know that this challenge is out there. I'd really like to encourage members to begin regularly reading the ASBDA Blog, and posting comments, as well. To encourage this, (and because last week had a big holiday break), I'd like to extend the blog post challenge for one more week - post a comment about who you would give the extra Curriculum Guide I found, I'll choose one comment at random, and will send the Curriculum Guide to you! If you are an ASBDA member, consider a student teacher, young teacher, or college methods class teacher to give this to - and then tell 2 other members to read the blog and post a comment!

Watch here for more articles about what is happening in ASBDA!

Cindy Swan-Eagan, President
American School Band Directors Association

Check the website, check the blog

2009-11-16T09:40:00.002-06:00

Be sure to check out the ASBDA website - Bruce Fox has updated the information regarding this summer's convention in Orlando - check there to get the latest information.

Also, keep checking the blog - those of you who have been reading it regularly know that I'm trying to make a post weekly. Please know that next week's post will include a challenge - and it will involve getting as many people as possible to post a comment - it's easy to do, and I'm hoping it will encourage everyone who has never posted a blog comment before to try it! So... your challenge for this week is to tell 2 people who may not have read the blog lately to check it out. Next week, watch for the first ASBDA blog challenge!

Cindy Swan-Eagan, President

'Tis the season

2009-11-09T15:17:00.003-06:00

Yes, we'll be seeing and hearing that statement a lot over the next few weeks as the 'holiday' season is upon us - no matter your background, there are many holidays and celebrations forthcoming over the next few weeks and months.

That's not what I'm talking about, however. This time of year, for ASBDA, is a time of celebration of another kind - the celebration of new membership. Now is the time for all of us to begin thinking of new member candidates to sponsor. I hope you will familiarize yourself with the membership process, and find another band director who should be an ASBDA member, but currently is not.

It's important to be candid with the prospective new member - tell them that ASBDA is an active organization, and success in the organization requires active participation from it's members. Remind them of the fact that they should be attempting to attend a national convention within their first three years of membership. Let them know that committees of members, just like themselves, worked diligently to produce such iconic publications as "The ASBDA Curriculum Guide," and our Sousa recordings & handouts, as well as all of our helpful publications.

It's also important to remind them that they will get out of membership what they put into it -- I just recently had a young student come in my office to tell me that he would be dropping band at the conclusion of the term. I asked him why he felt this necessary - his response, a classic - "well, Mrs. Eagan, it's just not as fun as it used to be." When I asked what had made it fun before, he said "When we'd go to solo & ensemble, and when we'd do things together, well those were great times. I enjoyed everything else, but that was just great!" I asked him why he had stopped getting involved in all of the "extras" band had to offer - he told me he didn't really know, but that when he stopped doing those extra things, it didn't seem to be as much fun any more. "Perhaps," I suggested, "you need to get involved again, before you stop completely - see what really active involvement does to your attitude about membership."

I think it's important to be honest with our new member candidates - their active involvement will directly influence their overall benefit from membership. The more active they are willing to become in the organization, the greater the benefits of membership.

So, be sure to think of a new member candidate, counsel them, and begin the membership process - 'tis the season!

Until next week -
Cindy Swan-Eagan, President
ASBDA

Minnesota Chapter Middle School Small Ensemble Day

2009-11-01T13:12:00.005-06:00

Happy November, everyone!

Read this wonderful account from Past President, Randy Lee of Minnesota about the wonderful project their state has done for the past 5 years!

ASBDA-MN is proud to announce the successful completion of its 5th annual SMALL ENSEMBLE DAY, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, at Southview Middle School in Edina, MN

Thanks to our hosts, ASBDA members, Bob Ouren and Geneva Fitzsimmonds (state chair), we were able to teach 75 middle school band students! With seven ASBDA-MN members and two other hired instructors we were able to offer students this opportunity to receive training and experience performing in small ensembles, such as brass choirs, saxophone ensembles, clarinet choirs, flute ensembles, percussion quintets, etc. Participating schools: Southview, Buffalo, Hermantown, St. Anthony, Morgan Park, Chaska, Woodland, and Valleyview Middle School. Six of those schools have ASBDA member directors. Others were invited. COST TO STUDENTS was ONLY $15. They added on $5 and had a pizza, pop, and cookie lunch. Participating students must have had at least one year of band experience and be in 7th or 8th grade. The surprise of the day was when some members of the MN Orchestra came in to the building, coincidentally, in prep for a Chamber Music event to take place the following day. The clarinet group got a visit from Burt Hara, principal clarinetist of the MN Orchestra, who played briefly for them, talked for a few minutes, and even let a student try his clarinet?!

**SCHEDULE of the day**

9:30-9:50 check in

10:00 Began the day all together to talk about small ensemble playing, to assess needs and attendance (illness? Or surprises), etc. A staff clarinet trio performed briefly. Instructors determined final instrumentation with abilities, experience, age and also practical ways to group students with the staff and facilities available.

10:20 - students break into their ensembles and begin rehearsal, led by ASBDA directors and guest teachers.

11:30 University of MN Brass Quintet performed!

LUNCH HOUR – pizza (Chapter meeting took place while parents and other staff helped supervise students)

1:00 - master classes - A nice woodwind quintet was also formed from the top players.

2:00 More small ensemble rehearsal

3:00 student groups perform. PARENTS, FRIENDS, GRANDPARENTS, AND OTHER GUESTS CAME TO WATCH THE FINAL CONCERT!!

Randy Lee, Event Coordinator

Staff for the day included:

Geneva Fitzsomonds, host, state chair, woodwinds

Katie Sandor, flute

Terri Svec, double reeeds
Paul Isaacs, clarinet

Randy Lee, saxophone

Bob Ouren, host, brass

Eric Anderson, brass

and
Leslie Churchill, brass

Bruce Taylor, percussion, and Josh Greenberg, woodwinds, were hired to help.

And special thanks to Dr. David Baldwin who teaches the U of MN Brass Quintet and arranged their appearance once again!!

Minnesota chapter is also happy to report that our chapter will, as always, do a session at our state convention in February- *"Armed and Dangerous!* Teaching beginning band can be a treacherous endeavor, but whether you are a new teacher or have a few years under your belt, this session will address the unique challenges that come with beginning band programs. A panel of ASBDA members (Terri Svec, Randy Lee, Chris Ravndal, Katie Sandor, and Paul Isaacs) will address topics including: recruitment, instrument selection, retention, scheduling, rapport with building staff/administration, facility use, dealing with vendors and traveling between buildings. This session is sponsored by the MN Chapter of the American School Band Directors Association.

So - what else is going on around the country with ASBDA members making a difference in student's lives - let's hear about it, and share our great ideas with other state chapters! Until next Sunday -

Cindy Swan-Eagan, President

American School Band Directors Association

Orlando Convention Hotel - Brand New and It's a Beauty!

2009-10-25T18:28:00.005-05:00

The brand new Hilton Orlando has been open officially now for just 1 month. It is the perfect location for a convention - ASBDA will enjoy being there this summer (July 6 - 10, 2010), as we join forces with the Florida Bandmasters Association for the second time, to have combined conventions.

The lobby is bright, airy & spacious, and the staff is attentive.

There are several wonderful ballrooms - our meetings, concerts and sessions will be held in these. They are within an easy walking distance of the guest rooms.

There are four on site restaurants, all with different menus, plus a deli sandwich shoppe. There are also several restaurants within easy walking distance - I will post a list of those in an upcoming blog post.

There is a business center, complete with computers and ticket printing stations, but also, a UPS Store! What a convenience!

The pool complex is fantastic, and this picture only shows half. I'll have more detailed pictures of this area in an upcoming blog post. We'll be walking distance from Sea World and the Sea World water park, but this pool complex may just make your family forget just how close we are to those other attractions!

Our 2010 convention is sure to be uplifting and inspiring - I'm not going to give it all away yet, but we have middle school, high school, community and military bands set to perform, some wonderful clinic sessions (including artistry with the middle school band, concert snare drum technique & a new music reading session), and of course, the ASBDA meetings. We'll also have extra time beyond what we've had in recent years devoted especially to regions being able to come together to plan their first ever regional conventions for 2011.

Information regarding making your room reservations with the hotel will be coming soon. You'll love the venue, and the room rate we have just can't be beat.

Convention registration information will be coming during it's usual mid-winter time, but mark your calendars now for the ASBDA Convention - July 6 - 10, 2010 - "Carrying the legacy into tomorrow!"

Until next Sunday - have a great week!

Cindy

Position Statement in "the Instrumentalist"

2009-08-31T21:31:00.002-05:00

Please check p. 27 of this month's "The Instrumentalist" magazine. Our "position statement on curriculum reform" is there along with our web address in the index. This was adopted by the membership at this summer's convention. Hopefully, this document will spur other groups and individuals to advocate music (and band programs in particular) in our schools! This is also part of what will be our work with the ABA. Please make this document available to YOUR school administration and policy makers! Thanks!

Thanks for a great year!

2009-08-29T18:05:00.001-05:00

To all ASBDA members:
Thanks for a great year. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your President for 2008-2009. I feel that we made great progress as an Association and hope that all of you will continue to support our new President and President-Elect as they reshape ASBDA! Also, this is the time for you to do something for the Association by volunteering for committee work, writing an article for the newsletter, and/or becoming a mentor for a prospective new member! ASBDA is a SELF-help organization, so it's up to YOU to keep us going! Have a great year!

Jeff Phillips
ASBDA President 2008-2009

Sad News

2009-08-27T17:05:00.002-05:00

We have received word this afternoon of the passing of ASBDA Past President Seymour Okun.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday at the Dorfman Chapel, 30440 West Twelve Mile Road, in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Interment will follow at the Temple Beth El Cemetery.

The family invites you to join them for a luncheon immediately following, which will occur in the Town Room of the 5000 Town Center Building. The building is a high rise located at the southwest corner of Evergreen and Civic Center Dr, in Southfield, Michigan. The entrance is on Civic Center, and complimentary valet parking is provided.

The Okun family will green their guests at a Shiva on Monday, August 31, begining at noon, in the home of Suzanne Okun, which is the 5000 Town Center Building, #2501.

The family suggests that contributions be made to the Faye and Seymour Okun Fund at the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, the Faye and Seymour Okun Fund at the Jewish Federation of Detroit, or a charity of your choice.

Should any further information be made available, it will be posted here immediately.

Mark Your Calendars - MidWest Clinic Meeting Room, Date & Time Announced!

2009-08-27T09:08:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone! Mark your calendars now - ASBDA will be having a breakfast meeting, complete with Continental Breakfast at the Hyatt at McCormick Place, Room CC22B, on Friday, December 19, 2009 from 7 a.m. til 9 a.m.

While this is not an official business meeting, this is a great time of sharing, getting updates on the progress of our regionalization, implementation of the Handbook Newly Revised, and on the wonderful Convention being planned for us by the Florida Delegation - remember, this year we'll be at a brand new facility (opening within a few weeks!!!) and will be working together with the Florida Bandmaster's Association for our convention - you won't want to miss the updates about that!

Mark your calendars - Chicago's calling!

Teaching in Switzerland

2009-08-20T13:59:00.004-05:00

I have now been teaching for two weeks in Wil, Switzerland on my Fulbright teacher exchange. I think I am finally getting on a regular sleep schedule. I was warned that I would be very tired during the first two weeks, and they were right. The fact that I had to start teaching two days after my arrival didn't help. I have also spent a great deal of time taking care of non-school-related items such as getting my residence permit, setting up a bank account, and getting cell phones.

I have discovered so far that there are some major differences between Littleton Public Schools and St. Katharina. I specify the two particular schools since I'm not completely sure at this point what is typical and what is specific to LPS or "Kathi." Here's a short list:
1. School starts at 7:30 and generally ends at 4:00, but can go until 6:00.
2. Lunchtime is a major event in Switzerland (many businesses close for lunch) and the students have 1:40 for this.
3. Students are allowed to be in classrooms during lunchtime and breaks without teacher supervision. Many just sit in the classrooms and socialize and others may go to the music rooms to practice.
4. Students take many electives, including a lot of music.
5. There is no such thing as a school bus. Students find their own means of transportation to school. Many students take a train.
6. Wednesday is a short day. Most students and teachers are finished by 11:00.
7. There are no school sponsored after-school activities. Any additional programs are privately operated.

So far, my experience has been wonderful, but also stressful. I am realizing that, even though I have been studying German for a couple of years, I need to get much better at it. On the other hand, I am learning how to deliver instruction without a lot of needless verbiage. The difficulty is having to translate things that I have said every day for the past 25 years. I can never teach on "auto pilot." I was also warned that I would feel like a first year teacher, and they were right about that also. That is the wonderful thing about doing a teacher exchange. Not only does one get the cultural experience, but it also make one re-think your teaching methods from the ground up.

Nashville Convention Sights

2009-06-19T11:25:00.005-05:00

The Tennessee Chapter has planned wonderful events for us - here's just a few things we've been doing while here in Nashville!

Enjoying lunch before the tour of the Jack Daniel's Distillery plant in Lynchburg, Tennessee.

The tour - great guides & great tour!

The "ASBDA Singers" cut a chart at Studio B, a room filled with history.

We've had wonderful concerts and clinic sessions - here, composer Jay Dawson performs with the Hendersonville High School Symphonic Band.

Stay Connected with the Nashville Convention

2009-06-13T10:55:00.002-05:00

Watch the ASBDA Blog right here for the latest happenings, pictures, and stories from the Nashville Convention! We'll be posting often about the happenings when ASBDA comes to Music City! See you soon!

ASBDA May, June, July Newsletter

2009-06-02T07:53:00.003-05:00

Please note the following from the CRC Committee Chair, Dr. Rich Patterson:

ATTENTION ALL ASBDA MEMBERS: THE "PROPOSED REVISION" TO THE HANDBOOK IS POSTED ON THE ASBDA WEBSITE ALONG WITH THE 39 AMENDMENTS TO THIS DOCUMENT. THESE AMENDMENTS WILL BE PRESENTED, DISCUSSED AND VOTED UPON AT THIS 2009 NASHVILLE CONVENTION. PLEASE GO TO THE ASBDA WEBSITE: www.asbda.com WHERE THESE DOCUMENTS WILL BE POSTED. MEMBERS WHO DO NOT HAVE ACCESS MAY HAVE A FRIEND, RELATIVE, FAMILY MEMBER, PUBLIC LIBRARY, WORK, LOCAL KINKO'S COPY CENTER OR SCHOOL WHERE THEY CAN USE THE WEBSITE TO ACCESS THESE DOCUMENTS.

PLEASE DOWNLOAD THESE DOCUMENTS, PRINT THEM, AND BRING THEM WITH YOU TO THE NASHVILLE CONVENTION. THESE DOCUMENTS ARE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ONLINE.

IF, AFTER EXHAUSTING THE ABOVE SOURCES FOR WEB ACCESS, ANY MEMBER WHO CANNOT OBTAIN ACCESS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, PLEASE CONTACT DR. RICH PATTERSON (phone number listed in the newsletter - see website) AND HE WILL MAIL THEM TO THE MEMBER.

National Concert Band Festival?

2009-02-27T19:01:00.001-06:00

Is there any interest in something like a "National Concert Band Festival" within the support of ASBDA? A destination where bands could/would come and perform graded concert band selections, adjudicated and/or clinic atmosphere? What time of year might work? There has been discussion and there is some possibility of backing ($$$) for this from industry, but I'm just trying to see what might be the interest.

ASBDA Curriculum reform project

2009-02-16T12:36:00.000-06:00

ASBDA will be proposing an official statement regarding current school curricular reforms (specifically those involving the American Diploma Project) in regards to school band programs. If you would like to have input, please post your concerns, questions here; also if you have specific items that have impacted your state and curriculum reform projects, please list those here or contact me directly.

Convention schedule

2009-02-16T12:23:00.000-06:00

The TN-ASBDA presents an overview of the 2009 convention schedule:
more information will be available on the website and in the next newsletter, but for those who want to get started early:
Tuesday, June 16: optional activities: Golf outing or tour of historic Lynchburg (Jack Daniels Distillery and lunch)
Wednesday, June 17: Opening session/keynote Joe Hermann, ABA President, Director of Bands, Tennessee Tech University; Concert: Hendersonville High School Symphonic Band premiering Dr. Greg Danner's "The Greatest Generation" commissioned by TN-ASBDA; Pyware Session with Dr. Stuart Benkert, UTC; Computer Basics session with bandfind.com; optional Nashville tours of Ryman Auditorium and Belmont Mansion; mixer; Concert: Nashville Wind Ensemble
Thursday, June 18: meetings; TN Governors School for the Arts High School Wind Ensemble concert; 129th TN Army National Guard Jazz concert; optional Nashville tours of Country Music Hall of Fame and RCA Studio B; Concert: Tennessee Valley Winds; mixer
Friday, June 19: meetings, concert: Freedom Middle School Band; sessions: Flashtrax Rhythm Reading system, Randy Box; session: concert Bass drum, Jim Sewery; session, Robert W. Smith; ASBDA Reading Band (new music reading session); concert: 129th TN Army National Guard Concert Band; Auction
Saturday, June 20: meetings, photo; session: Smartmusic with Mr. Alan Suska; Session: Dr. Peter Boonshaft (Hofstra University, NY); Banquet; optional post banquet activites: Grand Ole Opry late show or Big band dance at Nashville's Centennial Park

What would you change?

2008-11-05T20:34:00.000-06:00

If you were able to change one concept, fact, practice, or thought about ASBDA, what would it be?