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From the Desk of MMTA President
Adrienne Wiley
Conference Highlights
The Michigan Music Teachers State Conference was held this year in Bay City, October 11-13, 2009. The Bay Area Music Teachers Association and the Midland Music Teachers Association co-hosted this educationally enriching event that drew over 125 people from across the state of Michigan. We were fortunate to have Peter Takacs and Jane Magrath as our two featured presenters. The sessions presented by these two clinicians were just outstanding and generated many questions from the audience as well as further discussions between attendees following the sessions. Also featured were Derek Polischuk, Teacher Education Session, and David Abbott, Independent Music Teachers Forum, both university professors here in Michigan.
We continue to be blessed with our student performances which we highlight at the end of the first day of events. It is not only fun to hear these young people play, but amazing as to what they come prepared to play for us! From these performances, we are witness to credible and quality teaching.
Part of our Conference is dedicated to offering our membership information regarding Certification and SAT Testing. The break-out sessions on Certification and SAT Testing were well-attended again this year, which speaks to our continued interest in these subject areas.
Lastly, it was a treat to hear the Commissioned Composer, Paul Dooley, and his work on the opening concert! We also had the opportunity to hear the Saginaw Valley State Cardinal Singers, the Jazz Quintet, and MiJung Trepanier perform as well. What a wonderful way to open our Conference!
Penny Draper is, most likely, wrapping up the post-Conference details and looking forward to planning the 2010 Conference. Her hard work, and diligence in preparing this yearÕs Conference truly provided everyone the opportunity to come together to learn, meet old and new friends, and hear some great music.
Thanks to everyone who participated in the Conference in some wayÑeven those attending! We will look forward to seeing you at the next, 2010 Conference!
Warmly,
Adrienne Wiley
MMTA President