Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday I attended the GMEA Conference in Savannah. I make it my annual pilgirmage to relaxation and getting a fresh start. It seems that were not as many workshops as in the past. Some of the ones I attended were very interesting. Each class related specific area in my schools. One clinician emphasized the importance of ensembles in instrumental music. I sometimes have my better students play either solos or duets for programs. This approach has a definite effect on other students wanting to play solos. I feel his main point was that we or I should incorporate as many students to do the same, not to restrict participation. The other class dealt with reeds and mouthpieces. The relation to the first class was that in choosing a mouthpiece for your students in the band, do not start with you best students(1st and 2nd) but start with the 3rd and work your way up. It could be the mouthpiece that is keeping them in the third section. He gave examples of students moving from 3rd to the the first clarinet based on the changing of the mouthpiece. I think I will incorporate this concept with my violin students. Checking bows, shoulder rests to help move my slower students along.

The other two classes dealt with new piano music and a new instrumental music book coming out this spring. The important aspect about the book is that you can personalize it and add you own teaching ideas to the finish product. In any case the presentation concept dealt with the style and look of the book. I think what got my attention and others is that we can place our school on the cover. I think we are all looking forward to this new edition. If you are really into music education this conference and others is always a good way to learn more about how you relate to students and how important we are to the whole student and school. I met new people there and some who are taking this Saturday class. They wanted to know when the next class will be and are we going to make up the one we miss.