Hello Music Educators:

I hope a new semester has refreshed your love for your major, as it has mine! From all the craziness over the last few months with a marching band bowl trip, to concerts, to juries, I was ready for a break. The biggest event in a Kansas music educator's calendar in the spring is the KMEA In-Service Workshop. Known as Christmas in February to many, this event is a fantastic opportunity to network, attend clinics, and chow down on free samples.

While at the workshop, I encourage you to take part in all the available activities. Here is a small list of my favorite things to do at the ISW:

1. Attend clinic sessions at Century II and the Hyatt. There are tons of awesome sessions this year for college students and teachers alike. Check out some novelty sessions such as Marcia Neel and Jose Hernandez' "Mariachi in Schools" workshop and "Tips from the Trenches," headed by a panel of new teachers and where you can ask anything you like! See the KMEA website for a complete list of clinic sessions.
2. Attend concerts. Not only does the KMEA ISW account for about fifty percent of my recital attendance in the spring semester, it also allows me to see fantastic performances by musicians from around the state. Check out collegiate ensembles throughout the weekend to support your colleagues and go to high school ensemble performances to hear new repertoire as well as other fantastic groups. Remember that the All-State groups and Intercollegiate Band will also perform during the workshop.
3. Visit the booths. Bring a big empty bag with you to purchase new supplies from the various booths, score free stuff, and try food samples from the vendors. The booths let you connect with some great people who will someday be your suppliers. Make sure to stop by your alma mater's booth to get a sticker on your nametag.
4. Attend the collegiate luncheon. When you register for KMEA, pay the extra $5 to attend the luncheon on Friday. During this time, you will meet the candidates for state office, the keynote speaker, and hang out with other collegiate members.
5. Make connections. Take advantage of the free weekend by meeting up with your former band/choir/orchestra director, connecting with fellow teachers, and having coffee with friends to swap stories from the year. During the year, I hardly get to leave the bubble of Manhattan, so it is nice to see my friends from other colleges and favorite teachers at the KMEA ISW.

As a seasoned veteran of the ISW, I encourage you to do everything you possibly can to take advantage of what is offered. Through my current position as president, I have seen all the work that goes into the KMEA ISW and we have this special event right in our backyards, Wichita just happens to be a REALLY BIG back yard. Soak it up while you can and I will see you all at the registration table. Enjoy the ISW!