As I sit here typing and avoiding the 90 degree heat, it's hard to believe that 5 months ago I was sitting in a hotel room in Wichita watching the biggest snow storm I've ever seen. While I sat, horrified by the amounts of snow, I wondered the same thing we were all wondering, "Will there be an honor choir?"

Although forty percent isn't a number that we typically strive for in education, I am very happy to report that we had forty percent attendance at last February's middle level honor choir. Janeal Krehibel gave those students that braved the weather an unforgettable honor choir experience. Usually the Riverview Room is so full; we wouldn't dare ask the students to get out of their seats! She had them up and moving around, she made special connections with all of them individually, and was incredibly proud of the effort and musicianship that they put forth at the concert.

As we put that experience behind us, and think very positive thoughts for the coming year's weather, I write this article mostly to remind you of the upcoming auditions, and standards for those auditions. All details can be found on the KMEA website at ksmea.org/mlchoir, and if other questions should arise, please contact me.

Below is a brief overview of the audition standards and expectations:

• All auditions will be submitted online by midnight on October 4th. Mailed auditions will not be accepted.
• The keys for the soprano, alto, and tenor parts changed about two years ago. The audition music is on the website. Please update your files.
• Please pre-audition your students.

On the KMEA website, there is a copy of the audition rubric, and a list of those actions that could cause disqualification. Below are some the most typical reasons an audition was disqualified last year. Please see the website for more details:

• There is to be absolutely no talking on the recording.
• The correct starting pitch must be played before student begins.
• The audition should be a capella, with no instrumental or vocal assistance (including humming by teacher or student).
• Recordings that are enhanced will be disqualified.

I am looking forward to working with you and your students this year. Our clinician, Clint Pianalto, is an energetic and talented musician that they will enjoy working with very much. If you have any questions, please remember to visit the website, send me an email. I'm happy to help.