Monday, January 19, 2015

Reflections from IMEA (2015)



On February 16 & 17, I had the privilege of presenting at the Indiana Music Education Association's annual Professional Development Conference. This convention was held in Ft. Wayne, and provided an opportunity to learn from and meet some great educators. My session was entitled 'The Power of Story: Enhancing Your Program,' and summarized some of the efforts, principles and frameworks that have helped increase the Gahanna Orchestra Department's participation levels by 116% and elevate the average retention rate to 78% in six years. There was time at the end where attendees shared their own successes.

I was fortunate to attend two sessions by Bob Phillips, one of the foremost string educators in the country. While the information on the provided handouts were familiar ideas, I knew that the real gems would be when he shared his experiences and impromptu recollection of pedagogical tips and tricks used throughout the years. The margins on my copies are filled to the brim with ideas and actionable steps to implement in GJPS.

At his session about the Double Bass, I was fortunate to meet David Murray (Professor of Double Bass at Butler University). David is a former student of Gary Karr. THE GARY KARR. His musicianship, performance history and curriculum vitae are equally impressive! After a great lunch with both he and Soo Han (in addition to some of his current and former colleagues), we are planning for David to visit Gahanna Lincoln H.S.!

Many thanks to the GJPS Administration for providing coverage on Friday, February 16th while I traveled and presented. 

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