As guests of Save The Music Foundation, two NBOE music educators attended this year’s Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago, Illinois. The Midwest Clinic is recognized as one of the best music conferences in the country, and perhaps the best music, band, and orchestra clinics in the world. During this experience, teachers attended Clinics and Reading Sessions to get an in-depth look into music topics of their choice and hear live performances highlighting new music pieces available for instrumental ensembles. Rehearsal Labs provided opportunities to learn the best teaching practices currently in practice through interactions with techniques and strategies from around the world. To top it off, The Midwest Clinic showcased World Class Performances from professional musicians to university, high school, and grade school bands, to jazz bands and much more.
Mr. Expose shared, “One of the most fun, enjoyable and knowledgeable segments of the clinic was the large exhibition hall and discovering new scores, music products, music companies, universities and much more.” Mr. Liggins stated, “One of the most inspiring clinics I attended was the clinic on Empowering Female Conductors: A Focus on Allyship, Mentorship, and Representation. It was very inspiring to hear each of the presenters' journey to how they got to where they are now, the challenges they faced along the way, and the challenges they are currently facing.” Save The Music continues to enrich music education programs in Newark Public Schools through two new instrument grants awarded to Ann Street School and Speedway Avenue School. Additionally, this opportunity will provide access to world class professional development opportunities for NBOE music educators.