Collaboration-YES!

One of the great things about getting together at the KMEA ISW is learning new things and seeing each other! This certainly was the case in February. I am always amazed at the tremendous help I receive during the ISW. It certainly is not ME doing everything. I just could not do it by myself. So, my sincere thanks for all the ways you made the elementary room sessions and activities run smoothly this year. And, thank you for your feedback about the elementary clinicians.

This has been my plea in every KMR article this year: PLEASE think about submitting a performance recording for the 2013 KMEA ISW. The deadline will be in May, so check the website at: www.ksmea.org for the exact date. This year we only had one choir perform. I would like to have at least three groups perform next year. As we continue to "think outside the box" for ideas about whom to bring as a performance group, let me encourage you to think about submitting a group of students in the same grade from multiple classes, a recorder group, an Orff ensemble, or a choir chime and/or a hand bell group. And of course, let us not forget about the choirs who are performing in our state. There are many ways to think about bringing a group to the KMEA ISW and I hope you will sincerely think about submitting a recording for our next conference. Please feel free to email me with any questions about the submission process or what kind of music you should submit on the CD. I usually suggest a contrast of styles in the three pieces you submit. Remember to get a quality recording of your group for the blind audition process. That also makes a big difference.

Along with the submission of performance recordings, it is not too early to think about presenting a session in the elementary room next year. Those proposals are due prior to our October 2012 scheduling meeting. You need to check on line for the exact deadline, typically by October 1. One person asked about having a session focused on assessment. She teaches K-12 music in a small rural town and it is challenge assessing all of her students, especially at the elementary level.

Lastly, I would like to give you the "line up" of out-of-state clinicians for next year's ISW, February 21- 23, 2013. On Thursday, February 21, we will begin with David Frego (Dalcroze). On Friday, February 22, Artie Almeida (Orff/recorder, drums, etc.) will present, followed by Leigh Ann Garner (Kodáy) on Saturday, February 23. There is talk about doing another Folk Dance evening. We had a GREAT time with over 80 people participating and of all ages! The KOC (Kansas Orff Chapter) will also present a session using their talented members.

I hope you enjoy the rest of your school year and have a wonderful summer wherever your travels and relaxation may take you. Thanks for all of the dedication and hard work you do every day in your classroom. Let's stay connected!