2025 NMEA Conference/In-Service Clinic Schedule

NMEA's annual Conference/In-Service Clinic will be held November 20-22 (Thursday-Saturday) in Lincoln, NE. Registration headquarters and Expo are at the Embassy Suites, 1040 P Street, with conference sessions across the street on UNL's main campus (Westbrook Music Building), the Lied Center for Performing Arts, the Graduate Hotel, and the Embassy Suites. The Cornhusker Marriott Hotel will also be used for our Tri-M and Collegiate Symposiums.

*The conference schedule is subject to change.

Registration is Open!

Register for the Conference/In-Service Clinic

Early bird rate now through October 31 - Price increases November 1.

Click here to download a PDF of the current version of our at-a-glance 2025 Conference schedule.

Download the At-A-Glance Schedule

QUICK LINKS

REGISTRATION AND CHECK-IN LOCATIONS

Please Note: Teachers checking in their students for the Middle Level Chorus, Middle Level String Orchestra, and Orff Ensemble will pick up their conference registration packet in their respective check-in locations from 7:15 am - 8:00 am. After 8:30 am, registration packets will move to the Embassy Suites.

EXHIBIT TIMES

COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE SERVICE

Travel easily between the various NMEA Conference venues with our complimentary shuttle service! Shuttle service pick-up and drop-off areas are:

• Embassy Suites, corner of P St & N 11th St (within walking distance of the Graduate Hotel)
• Cornhusker Hotel, S 13th St (within walking distance of St. Paul)

Shuttle service is available for conference attendees and All-State students to use and will run during the following times:

DAY 1: THURSDAY SHUTTLE SERVICE (stops on East side of ES, CH)

• 5:15 PM - 6:15 PM; ES-CH
• 9:00 PM - 9:30 PM; CH-ES

DAY 2: FRIDAY SHUTTLE SERVICE (stops on East side of ES, CH)

• 7:15 AM - 8:15 AM; ES-CH
• 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM; ES-CH, CH-ES
• 3:30 PM - 6:15 PM; ES-CH
• 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM; CH-ES

DAY 3: SATURDAY SHUTTLE SERVICE (stops on East side of ES, CH)

• 7:15 AM - 8:15 AM; ES-CH
• 9:30 AM - 12:00 NOON; ES-CH

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Thursday, November 20

ELEMENTARY SESSIONS

Rockin' Recorders: From Hot Mess to Hot Jams
Presenter: Kelsey Helton
8:45 am / 5:30 pm LC C

Join Kelsey for a session full of recorder joy! Take home new ideas for hands-on recorder instruction, including new catchphrases, manipulatives, resources, and more!. Recorder shouldn't be a scary topic, but a joyful! Use the recorder in various settings starting in Kinder, all the way through beginning band!

This session will be repeated in the evening for teachers who are not able to attend during the day.

Kelsey Helton is an elementary music teacher in Texas. She is a proud graduate of Kansas State University and holds trainings and certifications in Orff 1, Kodaly 1, World Music Drumming, Mariachi, World Music Pedagogy, and First Steps in Music. Her favorite things to teach are recorder and the instrument families. Kelsey has presented around the country and writes professionally for Music ConstructED.

When Did You Stop Singing? Elementary Boys' Attitudes and Singing Self-Efficacy
Presenter: Eric Wyler
10:45 am / 6:14 pm LC C

The session is based on my study from my master's thesis paper from UNL which explores the decline in boys’ attitudes toward singing during elementary school, emphasizing the need for early intervention. Most current strategies focus on recruiting middle and high school students, overlooking the formative elementary years when boys may disengage sooner than we realize. The session examines three questions: when boys’ perceptions of singing change, how self-efficacy correlates with their attitudes, and the factors preventing enjoyment of singing.A survey was given to all boys in grades one through five in two schools. Results showed a significant drop in interest between grades one and two, with a strong link between positive singing self-efficacy and attitudes. We will examine the underlying factors that contribute to elementary boys' declining interest in singing and propose strategies to enhance their perceptions and attitudes.

This session will be repeated in the evening for teachers who are not able to attend during the day.

Eric Wyler currently serves as the Director of Music Education at Nebraska Wesleyan University where he oversees the music education program, teaches voice, and directs the jazz choir, Gold Standard Singers. He also serves as the Director of Vocal Point, the high school men’s ensemble of the Lincoln Boys Choir, a nonprofit community organization. Eric previously served as Music Director at St. John Lutheran Church in Council Bluffs, IA where he conducted the Chancel Choir and Bell Choir. Eric has six years of experience as a public school music educator, most recently as Head Director at Lewis Central High School in Council Bluffs, IA. He is an active judge, adjudicator, and clinician for various show choir competitions, choral and vocal solo contests, and honor choirs. Eric holds a Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Music Education from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a Master's Degree in Music from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

MIDDLE LEVEL ORCHESTRA SESSIONS

Conversation with Conductor
Presenter: Alison Gaines
10:00A KRH Basement Lobby

Join us for an engaging and intimate conversation with our 2025 All-State Middle Level Orchestra conductor Alison Gaines. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the nuances of conducting, the challenges of orchestral leadership, and the transformative power of music.

Alison holds a Doctoral degree in orchestral conducting from the University of Kansas, Lawrence and a Master’s degree from U.S.C., Los Angeles in bass performance. Her professional conducting experience includes music director positions, assistant conductor positions, and has been a conductor of youth symphonies, and has guest conducted various professional groups, including 10 years as conductor of Brass Night and on various chamber concerts at the Breckenridge, CO summer music festival. Her academic conducting experience includes a year as interim Director of Orchestra at Iowa State and for Rock Valley College, IL, and for 4 years as conductor of the chamber orchestra at Illinois’ largest college, the College of DuPage. In addition, she has served as a clinician and guest conductor for music associations throughout the Midwest and for the Chicago Bass Festival. During her doctoral studies, she received assistantships from both the orchestral and jazz departments, where she worked and studied with British conductor, keyboards, and recording artist Brian Priestman and with jazz educator, arranger and composer Dan Gailey. She has also received fellowships and won positions for conducting seminars through the League of American Orchestras, Chorus America, the Conductor’s Institutes in South Carolina (in opera), and at Bard College, NY.

Self-Publishing Music with ArrangeMe
Presenter: Justin Zeleski and David Bernard-Stevens
11:00 am / 5:45 pm KRH Basement Lobby

In this session, we will show you how to self-publish arrangements via the ArrangeMe website. This website not only allows you to self-publish and make money on your arrangement, but also helps clear copyright issues commonly encountered with popular music arrangements.

This session will be repeated in the evening for teachers who are not able to attend during the day.

Orchestra Budgeting 101
Presenter: Jeana Peterson
1:00 pm / 6:45 pm KRH Basement Lobby

Orchestra Budgeting 101 offers practical strategies for effective budgeting in public school orchestra programs, with a focus on budgeting with limited resources. This session will cover essential budgeting principles, creative funding solutions, and prioritization techniques to support program growth and sustainability. Perfect for string educators seeking to stretch every dollar while maintaining quality music education.

Mrs. Peterson has been teaching since 2014. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Luther College and a Masters degree in Music Education from the University of Nebraska Kearney. Mrs. Peterson teaches 5th grade orchestra at each of the 10 elementary schools, 6th and 7th grade at Horizon and Sunrise Middle School, and assists with the Kearney High School orchestra programs. She was the recipient of the Nebraska Orchestra Teacher of the Year Award in 2024. She is currently the Newsletter Editor for the Nebraska Chapter of the American String Teacher Association and serves on the National ASTA K-12 Committee.

This session will be repeated in the evening for teachers who are not able to attend during the day.

DISCUSSION FORUMS & MEETINGS

NMEA Annual Membership Meeting
Guest Speaker: Kim Bruguier, NAfME North Central Division President
7:45 pm, Location TBA

Join us for the annual NMEA Membership meeting featuring an address from NAfME North Central President Kim Bruguier. We will also update you on what NMEA has been working on this past year and introduce the candidates for the 2025 Board of Directors election.

Discussion Forum: All-State Auditions
Presenter: Scott Dugdale, Director of Auditions & Ensemble Affairs
8:00 pm, WMB 131 Rehearsal 4 (Old WMB 130)

This discussion forum provides a dedicated space for music educators to discuss the All-State ensemble audition process. Teachers are encouraged to share feedback, voice concerns, and ask questions about audition procedures, evaluation criteria, and student preparation. The goal is to foster open communication between educators and organizers, ensuring a transparent and supportive experience for both teachers and students involved in the audition process.

Conference Buddy Meeting
8:45 pm, ES Chancellor 2 & 3

Participants in the Conference Buddy program are encouraged to use this time and space to connect with their buddy—introduce themselves, get acquainted, and make a plan for navigating the conference together.

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Friday, November 21

FRIDAY MORNING SESSIONS

IMPROVe Your IMPROV Too
Presenter: Roy Bailey
8:00 am, LC C

Ready to improve your improv? Rather a beginner or advanced level, this session has something to offer. Our time together will provide a detailed approach to an Orff-based process. We will imitate, explore, create and have fun along the way. Grab your recorders and be prepared to walk away with ideas/activities that will have your students performing in the modes. Grab your mallets-you'll find yourself improvising with chord extensions! YES, chord extensions! All of this in an Orff-inspired approach. Give your students the tools they need in order to improve their improvisation. The presented processes are inclusive to movement, singing and children's literature. All lessons/activities provide additional references/resources that support participants as they continue to implement additional lessons/units.

Roy Bailey is a Colorado-based educator and musician. He is currently the Music Instructional Curriculum Specialist for Denver Public Schools. In addition to the Music Specialist position, Roy facilitates two community projects: DJ Concepts through Music Making and Lifted Voices (spoken word/poetry through music). Roy is a frequently requested presenter. He has presented for many school districts and conferences. He has presented for the Colorado Music Educators Association, The Good Teaching Conference (California), Texas State Teacher Association, Colorado Department of Education, Wyoming Music Educators Conference, Nebraska Music Educators Association, Adam’s State University and the Modern Band Summit-to name a few. Among Roy’s comprehensive Improve Your Improv curriculum, he has written a comprehensive curriculum for teaching Hip Hop/Neo Soul for 3rd through 12th grade classes. The units are: aligned to national and state standards, culturally responsiveness to music and SEL outlets through music. Currently, Roy is promoting/publicizing his music improvisation book: A Neo Soul Songbook. This work was inspired/tested for many years by many amazing former students.

We Are Family
Presenter: Victor Johnson
8:00 am, LC S

Diversity and Inclusion activities are simple and effective ways to get students talking and listening to one another. In this interactive workshop, Johnson will share energizers, icebreakers, and other team-building activities to help build community within the choral classroom.

Victor C. Johnson, a native of Dallas, Texas, is currently the School Choral Editor for Sing!, the educational publishing division of Choristers Guild. A prolific composer and arranger, he has over 450 choral works, vocal solo books, and keyboard collections currently in print. Since August 2007, Victor has served as the Minister of Worship and Arts at Shiloh Baptist Church, Plano, Texas where he oversees the vibrant SMBC Music Ministry in addition to the flourishing dance and mime ministries. In August 2022, he was appointed as the conductor of the Dallas Symphony Children’s Chorus Mixed Ensemble, which is comprised of students in grades 9-12 and is the resident children’s choir for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.

Tackling Performance Anxiety
Presenter: Jason Laczkoski
8:00 am, GRAD Ballroom 1

This presentation will be a brief exploration of performance anxiety. Common symptoms and approaches to coping with performance anxiety will be discussed. Do’s and don’ts in terms of how to approach this subject with your students (regardless of age) will be presented. There will be opportunities for discussion and sharing of one’s performance anxiety experiences.

Described by Eugene Rousseau as “a talented saxophonist,” JASON T. LACZKOSKI is a performer, conductor, and educator. He has performed solo and chamber recitals throughout the United States, in addition to appearances at the North American Saxophone Alliance Conference and the International Navy Saxophone Symposium. Currently teaching at Dakota Wesleyan University, he is an assistant professor of music and the director of bands. Jason studied saxophone with Joseph Murphy at Mansfield University of Pennsylvania and with world-renowned saxophonist Kenneth Tse at the University of Iowa. Laczkoski is ABD and expects to complete his doctoral degree in the fall of 2025. In addition to his saxophone studies at Iowa, he completed a secondary area in conducting, studying with Myron Welch and Richard Mark Heidel. Laczkoski is a Yamaha Performing Artist and performs exclusively on Yamaha saxophones. He is an E. Rousseau Mouthpiece Artist and performs exclusively on E. Rousseau mouthpieces. More information may be found at jason-t-laczkoski.com.

Simple is Better: How Doing Less Will Say More as a Conductor
Presenter: Alex Wimmer
8:00 am, GRAD Ballroom 3

Music has the power to connect people by communicating feelings in the way words cannot. Conducting is the bridge between notation on the page and what people experience. Due to the demands of our busy and active jobs, we sometimes lose sight of aligning our gestures to what we really want to say to our ensembles, and unintentionally over completing the musical process. This session will provide some simple, pragmatic, and realistic approaches to better enhance your gesture to say more while showing less.

Dr. Alex Wimmer is currently serving as the Associate Director of Bands at Kansas State University. His duties include directing the Wind Symphony, Cat Band (basketball pep band), Pub Crawl Band, Associate Marching Band Director for the Pride of Wildcat Land (KSUMB), arranger and drill designer for the KSUMB, and instructor of undergraduate and graduate courses in conducting, arranging, and marching band techniques. He also coordinates the K-State Summer Music Camp and K-State Leadership and Auxiliary Camp, serves as one of the Assistant Directors of the Manhattan Municipal Band, and is the faculty sponsor for Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. Dr. Wimmer is the Past-President of the Kansas Bandmasters Association. He also serves as a co-chair of the New Band Director Bootcamp during the Kansas Bandmasters Association’s annual convention.

How Does This Thing Work, Anyway? - Instrument mechanics and quick fixes
Presenter: Jasmine Lehl
8:00 am, GRAD Perkins

Learn the basics of wind instrument manufacture and mechanics, and keep instruments in students’ hands with quick and simple adjustments.

Jasmine Lehl has been teaching band at Perkins County Schools since 2015. Her duties include teaching 5-12 band, accompanying the choirs, instrument repair, and managing the concession stand. She has also taught K-6 general music and 7-12 choir. Jasmine graduated summa cum laude from Concordia College - Moorhead with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and a minor in mathematics in 2015. She earned her Master's in Music Education from the American Band College of Central Washington University in 2021. During the 2022-23 school year, she took a sabbatical to pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Band Instrument Repair from Minnesota State College Southeast. Outside of school, Jasmine enjoys playing tennis and pickleball. She lives in Grant, NE with her husband, Brandon, and their two cats.

Creativity where Failure may be a Requirement
Presenter: David Law
8:00 am, ES Alumni Room

Proven and successful strategies to incorporate creativity within our rehearsals and classes.

David Law is the 7-8th grade band director at Vernon Middle School in Marion, Iowa. He is a National Board Certified Teacher and a member of the Music Educator’s National Conference, Iowa Music Educator’s Conference serving as President, Iowa Bandmasters Association - Past President, Northeast Iowa Bandmasters - Past President, Association for School Curriculum Development, National Education Association, Iowa State Education Association, and Marion Education Association – Treasurer, and the Iowa Alliance for Arts Education – Chair. In 2004 he was selected as the Educator of the Year from Linn County. He is the founder and conductor of the Marion Community Bands and have performed twice throughout Europe. David has had articles published in a national music education magazine, 14 state music education journals and was a presenter at the National Music Educators Conference in Washington D.C. He is an adjudicator, clinician and guest conductor throughout Iowa. Bands under David’s direction have played at the Iowa Bandmasters Conference, the Iowa Music Educators Conference and were twice selected to play for President Reagan. David has taught instrumental music grades 5-12 in all sizes of schools in Iowa. Including East Greene at Grand Junction, Belle Plaine, Marion and Cedar Rapids John F. Kennedy High School. He received his BA in Music Education from William Penn College and his MA in Conducting from Truman State University. In 2003 David received his National Board Certification in Music.

Hit the Ground (String) Running: The First Weeks of High School Orchestra
Presenter: Jestin Cam
8:00 am, WMB 101 (Old WMB 110)

Come with me and explore the techniques and foundations that I cover in the first few weeks of high school orchestra class. We'll go over concepts like playing posture/position, tone, intonation, String Theory (but not the science kind), vibrato, and shifting. I will provide access to materials that I provide my students.

Jestin Cam is the current Associate Director of Instrumental Music at Burke High School in Omaha, Nebraska. They direct both Chamber and String Orchestras and assist with band and color guard. They received their Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in May of 2022 and has studied viola from Clark Potter and composition with Greg Simon. They currently are a director for the Omaha Public Schools’ Combined Winter Guard, and are the sponsor for Burke’s Quiz Bowl.

Barbershop 102: Just the Tag Circle
Presenters: Casey Allen & Logan Langholdt
8:00 am, WMB 131 Rehearsal 4 (Old WMB 130)

This would be the follow-up to our 2023 session "Barbershop 101 & Tag Circle". At this session, we would plan to educate our colleagues through hands-on experience and through simply teaching and singing as many tags as we possibly can in 50 minutes!

Casey Allen is an emerging director from Omaha, Nebraska in her fourth year as Director of Vocal Music at Elkhorn North High School, and fifth year of teaching overall. At Elkhorn North, Casey directs the Freshman Choir, Mixed JV Choir, Varsity Concert Choir, Varsity Show Choir, ENsync Vocal Jazz, Fall Musical, and multiple Barbershop Quartets. In 2022, Casey was recognized as the Outstanding Young Director of the Year through the Nebraska Choral Directors Association (NCDA). She is currently serving as the Repertoire & Resources Chair for Vocal Jazz, Barbershop, and A Cappella through NCDA, and also performs and records as part of The Nebraska Vocal Jazz Project. Casey loves people, music, and teaching. She believes that singing in a choir is a community experience, and that the best thing about choir is sharing music as part of something bigger than yourself.

Logan Langholdt is the enthusiastic Vocal Music Director at Lincoln North Star High School. Prior to coming to LNS, Logan taught three years at Wahoo Public Schools. Logan is an active performer and conductor. Barbershop singing is one of his passions. Currently, he serves as co-director of the Lincoln Continentals Barbershop Chorus. While studying at UNL he was active with the all-male a capella group, Bathtub Dogs. Langholdt also happily served as a contributor to UNL’s Nebraska Show Choir Camp. A lifelong Musical Theatre nerd, Langholdt has also directed several shows. In his third ever production as a young teacher, his production of The Addams Family was awarded with four Nebraska High School Musical Theatre Awards, including Outstanding Production. Logan is so excited to see so many talented groups perform today. Langholdt is also furthering his love of A Cappella by Co-Directing the Lincoln Continentals Barbershop Chorus, and plans to take them to regional, national, and international competitions in the coming years. During his time at UNL, Langholdt served as a proponent of Pop A Cappella, traveling around Nebraska to support and teach choirs about A Cappella, and music directing the Flagship UNL A Cappella Group, the Bathtub Dogs. He continues teaching Pop A Cappella in Nebraska Public schools today, and his high school choirs perform in regional and national A Cappella competitions.

Rompiendo El Cuero-Latin Percussion for Music Educators
Presenter: Daniel Jimenez
8:00 am, WMB 130 Performance Hall (Old WMB 119)

Rompiendo El Cuero is an engaging, hands-on session designed to help music educators deepen their understanding of Latin percussion. Focusing on congas, bongos, timbales, and auxiliary percussion, this session explores their cultural and historical significance while providing essential playing techniques and practical classroom applications. Educators will learn how to integrate Latin rhythms into general music, band, and choir programs through interactive demonstrations and effective pedagogical strategies. By emphasizing rhythm, coordination, and cultural appreciation, this session equips teachers with the tools to bring the energy and authenticity of Latin percussion into their classrooms, fostering deeper musical engagement and global awareness among students

Paulo Daniel Jimenez is a graduate assistant at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he is pursuing a Master of Music in Jazz Performance (Drums) and a Conducting Certificate. As a teaching assistant in the music theory department, he supports undergraduate courses by tutoring students, assisting with instruction, and facilitating coursework. Jimenez studies drums with Doug Montera and is also working under Dr. Eric Scott for his Conducting Certificate. Originally from Cochabamba, Bolivia, Jimenez earned his degree in Music Education from Northern State University in South Dakota. He has experience teaching band, choir, and elementary music, and his passion for music education extends beyond the classroom. He has served as an adjudicator and clinician, working with students of all levels and guiding educators in refining their teaching approaches. Jimenez is an active clinician, regularly leading workshops focusing on Latin percussion pedagogy, jazz and drum set techniques, and innovative teaching methodologies. He has presented throughout the Midwest—including South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska—as well as in Bolivia, where he is dedicated to expanding access to quality music education. As a performer, Jimenez has appeared as a guest artist with Bolivia’s D-Jazz Big Band (2018) and as a guest soloist and clinician at the Northern State University Jazz Festival (2024). He also works as a freelance recording artist, collaborating on various projects from his home studio. His work as an educator, performer, and researcher reflects his commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of jazz and percussion across cultures.

Middle School Magic: Music for Developing Voices
Presenter: Krista Hart
8:00 am, WMB 116 Rehearsal 1 (Old WMB 132)

Looking for choral music that will engage your middle school singers and is also pedagogically appropriate? Join Krista Hart in reading through a complimentary packet of new music designed specifically for developing voices. Music in this session will address your big concerns, like choosing music for changing voices, balancing fun selections with educational repertoire, motivating students, and more.

Krista Hart is an author and presenter dedicated to equipping music educators with practical, creative resources. She has authored several books, including The Mindful Music Classroom, Shaped by Sound, Choir-tivities, and A Music Teacher’s Gratitude Journal. Her work focuses on fostering meaningful student connections and supporting growth in music education.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER - Kim Bruguier

2025 Conference Keynote Address
Keynote Speaker: Kim Bruguier
9:15 am, WMB 116 Rehearsal 1 (Old WMB 132)

Join us for the conference keynote featuring Kim Bruguier, NAfME North Central Division President. In this inspiring session, Kim will share insights on leadership, advocacy, and the power of music education to transform lives. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a national leader whose passion and perspective will set the tone for a meaningful and energizing conference experience. 

Kim Bruguier teaches elementary general music and beginning band at LB Williams Elementary in Mitchell, SD. She also directs a middle school show choir and is color guard instructor for the High School Marching Band. Mrs. Bruguier is the director for the Mitchell Area Children’s Choir, is vice president of the Sioux Valley Orff Chapter, is the Immediate Past President and conference manager for the South Dakota Music Education Association and is an adjunct professor in the education department for Dakota Wesleyan University. In that position she teaches a class on using music, movement, and art for elementary education majors. Mrs. Bruguier has been a clinician across the midwest, presenting at multiple state music conferences, as well as the NAfME National conference in Dallas, the South Dakota Technology In Education conference, the SD Arts Education Institute, and for the Sioux Valley Orff Chapter. She has also led professional development sessions for school districts on a range of technology and music topics. Mrs. Bruguier has been an adjudicator multiple times for middle school music contests and has been the guest director for the 4th-6th grade SDMEA Festival Choir in the spring of 2018, the Brookings Festival of Voices for middle school singers in 2019, and this fall the Northwestern Music Festival for Middle School Voices.

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FRIDAY MORNING CONCERT HOUR

West High Singers from Bellevue West High School
Directed by A. J. Reimer
10:30 am, StP

West High Singers is one of seven different choirs offered at Bellevue West High School. This auditioned group is composed of sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The ensemble focuses on performance and technical aspects of choral music, such as sight-reading and counting. WHS emphasizes singing for one another, finding joy in the rehearsal process, and increasing their musicality. West High Singers performs throughout the school year in the school and community. They regularly sing with the Omaha Symphony as part of the Choral Collaborative. In the last few years they have shared the stage with Nebraska Wesleyan’s University Choir, Tower Choir from NW Missouri State, and Omaha’s Symphonic Chorus. Since 2020, the ensemble has performed Orff’s Carmina Burana, Brahm’s Requiem, Mozart’s Requiem, Mendelsohn’s Elijah, and Hagenberg’s Illuminare, as well as a wide variety of classical and contemporary choral pieces.

A.J. Reimer and his wife, Stacy, live in Bellevue, Nebraska with their four children; Owen, Joe, Charlie, and Henry. Mr. Reimer has been teaching vocal music since 2003 and has been at Bellevue West High School since 2006. He received his Undergraduate and Master’s degrees in Music Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Mr. Reimer has been a guest clinician and adjudicator for honor choirs and contests in the Midwest, and has presented, conducted, and performed several times at state conventions for both NMEA and NCDA, as well as directed choirs for the 2014 and 2024 Regional ACDA Conventions. He also served as President of the Nebraska Choral Director’s Association. At Bellevue West, Mr. Reimer helps direct the eight choirs in his program, including West High Singers and Project 424. He also directs the Bellevue Singers, an adult community choir.

Kearney High School Wind Ensemble
Directed by Nathan LeFeber
10:45 am, LC Stage

Formed in 2012, the Kearney High School Wind Ensemble is quickly becoming an ensemble that is a vehicle for fine music making. Students are selected based on an audition from the previous year and begin rehearsing in late August. Currently the KHS Wind Ensemble consists of 60 members, grades 10-12, and is a part of the larger KHS Band Program, which includes two other concert bands, two jazz bands, two pep bands, a marching band, history of rock classes, intro to music class, and an AP Music Theory course.The goal of the ensemble is to expose students to a wide variety of literature and composers while providing students a chance to excel and find success. At the forefront of what we do is striving to get beyond the notes and dive into the deeper meaning of the music. The band performs four concerts a year in a variety of formats and travels throughout the state. The Kearney High Band has also traveled extensively outside of Nebraska to destinations such as California, Washington D.C., Florida, New Orleans, Chicago, New York City, Branson, Nashville, TN, Germany and the Czech Republic, and in 2026 will be traveling to Austin, Texas.

A Nebraska native, Nathan LeFeber received a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and a Master’s degree in Trombone Performance from the University of Iowa at Iowa City. He has been teaching instrumental music since 2003, most recently at Kearney High School where he has been ‘enriching lives through music’ since 2011. Prior to that, Mr. LeFeber taught band at Beatrice High School and Lincoln Christian School. From 2011-2014, Mr. LeFeber served as Chair of Band Affairs for the Nebraska Music Educators Association and from 2019-2021 served as President of the Nebraska State Bandmasters Association as well as the Nebraska chapter of Phi Beta Mu, an honorary band directors fraternity. He has worked as an adjudicator for many high school and middle school music contests as well as serving as a guest conductor for numerous honor bands across the state, including the Class B and Class C All-State bands. He was recently awarded the Nate Metschke Creative Teacher Award from NSBA in 2025.In addition to his teaching schedule, Mr. LeFeber has also performed on trombone with a number of professional ensembles including the Quad City Symphony, Cedar Rapids Symphony, Lincoln Municipal Band, Nebraska Jazz Orchestra, Kearney Symphony Orchestra, Hastings Symphony, Plymouth Brass, Flatwater Jazz Orchestra, Jazz at the World Big Band, Kearney Municipal Band, and the Kearney Jazz Society. For the past several summers, he has toured Germany with the German/American 12-piece brass ensemble, Eurobrass. Mr. LeFeber is an Edwards Trombone Performing Artist.Mr. LeFeber is passionate about imparting his love of music, faith, and family into the lives of his students. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Julie, for more than two decades, and they have 4 children: Evelyn, Sylvia, Abraham, and Mordecai.

Jazz Ensemble 1 from Bellevue East High School
Directed by Jeremy Krug
10:45 am, WMB 116 Rehearsal (Old WMB 132)

Jazz Ensemble 1 is the premiere jazz ensemble at Bellevue East High School. Students are selected for this ensemble through a competitive audition. The jazz program at Bellevue East High School has experienced tremendous growth. In 2019 the jazz program had one jazz ensemble that met outside of school. Bellevue East HS is now proud to offer two full jazz ensembles that meet as a part of the curricular school day and we boast nearly 60 students enrolled in jazz ensembles. Bellevue East Bands are also host to one of the regions top jazz festivals providing high quality jazz education opportunities to bands in our area.

Jeremy Krug has served as the director of bands for Bellevue East since 2022. He came to Bellevue Public Schools in 2019 with previous appointments in Maryville, MO and Lansing, KS. Krug served in the United States Marine Corps from 2002 to 2010 and received his bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Memphis and Masters in Music from the American Band College of Central Washington University.

Northwest Wind Symphony
Directed by Katy Strickland
10:45 am, KRH

With a mission to provide a positive and challenging atmosphere in which students may deepen their individual musicianship and grow as ensemble members via a varied repertoire and positive shared experiences, the Wind Symphony regularly collaborates with guest performers and conductors and has been selected to perform via peer review at state music conferences in Missouri and Nebraska. In 2017 the Wind Symphony was selected by the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) as one of ten exemplary collegiate Small Band Programs, and in 2004 performed in London, England. The ensemble gave its premier performance at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Helzberg Hall in 2018 and returned in the spring of 2024.

Dr. Katy Strickland currently serves as Director of Bands and Professor of Music at Northwest Missouri State University, where she directs the Northwest Wind Symphony, Bearcat Marching Band, Northwest Pep Band, and teaches coursework in Music Education and Conducting. In August of 2017 Dr. Strickland was awarded the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Education, an award sponsored by the Missouri Council on Public Higher Education and presented annually to “an outstanding faculty member of each of Missouri’s four-year public institutions.” In the fall of 2022, she was named the Dennis C. Dau Endowed Professor of Instrumental Music. Prior to her appointment at Northwest, Dr. Strickland taught instrumental music in the South Louisiana public schools for thirteen years. She earned her Bachelors, Masters, and PhD in Music Education from Louisiana State University, and serves frequently as an adjudicator and clinician of bands of all ages across the United States.

Bellevue Singers
Directed by A.J. Reimer
11:00 am, StP

The Bellevue Singers is more than a community choir based out of Bellevue, Nebraska. All of its members are connected to Bellevue West High School in some way; either by graduation, employment, or family. Members range from age 18 to 93, and come together for the joy of making music together. The Bellevue Singers are dedicated to excellence in the performance of choral music, as well as building and fostering the choral community in Bellevue. Because of the professional schedules of the performers, rehearsals are limited to late spring and summer.

Bio given above.

University Jazz Choir from Concordia University, NE
Directed by Kurt von Kampen
11:00 am, WMB 130 Performance Hall (Old WMB 119)

University Vocal Jazz was formed in the fall of 2006 and has earned a reputation for fine singing of jazz/pop influenced choral music. The choir has performed throughout the Midwest including a performance at the Sheldon Performing Arts Center in St. Louis, The Schoolhouse at Mainstreet in Parker, Colorado, multiple invitations to sing for the Nebraska Music Education Association (NMEA) annual Fall Conference/Clinic, numerous high school assemblies, and on campus performances each semester. The choir has also been featured several times on Friday Live, an NPR live radio broadcast with Nebraska Public Media. Students in the choir are representative of a diverse cross section of academic disciplines from within the university. About half are music majors.

Kurt E. von Kampen has been conducting choirs at Concordia since 1998 and is the fourth conductor in the 87-year history of the University A Cappella Choir. Prior to 1998, Kurt was professor of music at Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and director of music at Lutheran High Westland and Northwest in the Detroit area. Von Kampen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Concordia, a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Oakland University in Rochester, Mich., and a Doctorate in Choral Music Education from the University of Nebraska. In 2007, von Kampen received Concordia’s Outstanding Teacher Award, and in November 2012, was named the NCDA Outstanding Choral Director of the Year.Dr. von Kampen enjoys composing music, leading choral clinics and teaching courses related to choral music. He is a member of the American Choral Directors Association and the National Association for Music Education.

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FRIDAY AFTERNOON SESSIONS

Sing, Move, Play! Music & Materials for Kids
Presenter: Krista Hart
1:15 pm, LC C

Prepare to be dazzled by the latest publications from Alfred Music! Discover new 2-part chorals, vibrant songbooks, accessible musicals, classroom collections, and other fantastic resources tailor-made for your energetic young singers. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your library and ignite your students' passion for music. A complimentary music packet will be given to each director in attendance.

Bio previously given - go here to view.

PD so EZ!
Presenter: Kim Brugier
1:15 pm, LC S

Description coming soon!

Bio previously given - go here to view.

YOU Make the Difference
Presenter: Jeff Scott
1:15 pm, GRAD Ballroom 1

This proposal focuses on the characteristics that make a great music educator. Particular focus is placed on building a culture for success, forming meaningful relationships within the program, and rehearsal techniques that lead to a vibrant and exciting music program for students and teachers alike.

Jeff Scott is the Middle School Lead for the Habits of Success series published by GIA Publications. Mr. Scott was formerly the Director of Bands at Cario Middle School in Mount Pleasant, SC for the past 23 years. Bands under Mr. Scott's direction have received exclusively Superior ratings at all State, Regional and National festivals for the past 34 years and have received the South Carolina Outstanding Performance Award each of the past 34 years. Mr. Scott is a clinician for GIA and has presented at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago five times.

Improvisation for Everyone
Presenter: David Law
1:15 pm, GRAD Ballroom 3

Proven strategies to introduce improvisation to any student on any instrument.

Bio already given - go here to view.

David Law is the 7-8th grade band director at Vernon Middle School in Marion, Iowa. He is a National Board Certified Teacher and a member of the Music Educator’s National Conference, Iowa Music Educator’s Conference serving as President, Iowa Bandmasters Association - Past President, Northeast Iowa Bandmasters - Past President, Association for School Curriculum Development, National Education Association, Iowa State Education Association, and Marion Education Association – Treasurer, and the Iowa Alliance for Arts Education – Chair. In 2004 he was selected as the Educator of the Year from Linn County. He is the founder and conductor of the Marion Community Bands and have performed twice throughout Europe. David has had articles published in a national music education magazine, 14 state music education journals and was a presenter at the National Music Educators Conference in Washington D.C. He is an adjudicator, clinician and guest conductor throughout Iowa. Bands under David’s direction have played at the Iowa Bandmasters Conference, the Iowa Music Educators Conference and were twice selected to play for President Reagan. David has taught instrumental music grades 5-12 in all sizes of schools in Iowa. Including East Greene at Grand Junction, Belle Plaine, Marion and Cedar Rapids John F. Kennedy High School. He received his BA in Music Education from William Penn College and his MA in Conducting from Truman State University. In 2003 David received his National Board Certification in Music.

Social Media for Music Education: Personal, Professional, and Classroom Use
Presenter: Dave Sanderson
1:15 pm, GRAD Perkins

This session will help music educators navigate the complexities of using social media both personally and professionally, as well as in the classroom. Participants will learn about the ethical and legal considerations, including the impact of the Teacher Code of Ethics and First Amendment limitations. The session will cover best practices for maintaining professional boundaries on social media and using it for professional learning and networking. Additionally, attendees will explore how to use social media-type content and activities in the classroom, including monitoring content, addressing online behavior, and ensuring compliance with FERPA, CIPA, and COPPA. The session will provide guidance on using platforms like YouTube and SeeSaw, and integrating social media activities into learning management systems. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with the knowledge to use social media responsibly and effectively in their roles as music educators.

David N. Sanderson is the Associate Professor of Music Education at the University of South Dakota. He currently teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in music education and music technology, co-directs the USD Concert Band, and advises the Collegiate NAfME chapter. Dr. Sanderson currently holds leadership roles in the Society for Music Teacher Education and the South Dakota Music Education Association. He earned a Ph.D. in music education from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and he holds M.M. and B.M.E. degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. While in Minneapolis, MN he was a graduate instructor at the University of Minnesota, an adjunct professor at Augsburg College, and directed the Seward Community Concert Band. He began his career teaching instrumental, vocal, and general music at Lincoln North Star High School in Lincoln, NE.

Squeak, Slap, Thud - Taming the Saxophone

Presenter: Jason Laczkoski
1:15 pm, ES Alumni Room

Never took a saxophone methods course? Can't quite get your beginners to stop honking? Squeak, Slap, Thud is a refresher on saxophone pedagogy. Topics include articulation, embouchure formation, intonation tips and tricks, tone production, equipment, suggested performers, suggested resources., etc.

Bio already given - go here to view. 

The Practice Room as Laboratory
Presenter: Clark Potter
1:15 pm, WMB 101 (Old WMB 110)

What can we learn from the sciences that can apply to the personal practice room? The short answer is the art of curiosity. In a world of music which most often features students playing together in ensembles, too often students get to their practice time finding a lonely struggle and without a clear idea of how to proceed. This discussion includes ideas for students of all ages and abilities, whether practicing their school's ensemble music or solo music they may be learning in private lessons. This session will explore a variety of tips that give students ways to think about practice time and specific tools to use to both get started and keep going.

Clark Potter is Professor of Viola in the Glenn Korff School of Music at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln where he also teaches undergraduate conducting. He recently retired after 26 years as principal viola of the Lincoln Symphony and is the violist of the Trans-Nebraska Players and the Nebraska Chamber Players. He has performed more than 50 solo recitals in his lifetime. He earned degrees from Western Washington University, Indiana University, and California Institute of the Arts. Mr. Potter has conducted the Lincoln Youth Symphony since 2007. His research interests include breathing in upper string players, his edition of the six Bach cello suites for viola, and the concert music of film composer Ernest Gold.

Harmony for All: Accessible Strategies for Inclusive Music Education
Presenters: Cody Talarico & Bryan Wojcik
1:15 pm, WMB 131 Rehearsal 4 (Old WMB 130)

Help all students of all abilities "find their voice" in music. Join Brian, from Nebraska's Assistive Technology Partnership, and Cody, from the Nebraska Department of Education, for practical strategies to make music education accessible for all students. We'll explore how to look at music standards and ways to help students acquire the essential skills they need in your band. Learn to leverage professional instructional design techniques, including universal design for learning (UDL), adaptive technology tools, and creative teaching methods that engage all learners. Leave inspired and empowered to create harmonious opportunities for every student to shine in their band programs. Come join us as we help support you as you build music classes and ensembles that truly play for all!

Cody Talarico, is a musician and supporter of arts education. Cody taught music in the Bellevue (NE) Public Schools and is currently serving Nebraska as the Arts Education Specialist at the Nebraska Department of Education where he leads and supports visual arts, media arts, dance, music and theatre education. Cody also serves arts education nationally, as a member-at-large on the Executive Team for SEADAE (State Education Agencies Directors of Arts Education). Cody has been honored as the “Administrator/Supervisor of the Year” by the Nebraska Art Teachers Association. He is a professional musician and an all-around fine arts fanatic who resides in the Omaha, NE, area with his family. One of his greatest joys is seeing how the arts and arts education connects us.

Brian Wojcik serves as the Education Program Supervisor and Assistive Technology Specialist within Assistive Technology Partnership. He had previously worked at the University of Nebraska at Kearney where he helped prepare Special Education teachers and headed up the Assistive Technology Master’s Program. Brian also worked as the Coordinator of the Special Education Assistive Technology (SEAT) Center at Illinois State University. Overall, he has over 25 years working in and with schools focusing on how to use assistive technology to meet the needs of children with disabilities. **NOTE - Brian was an exhibitor last year and plans to exhibit again this year.**

Where's The HIP in Your HOP
Presenter: Roy Bailey
1:15 pm, WMB 130 Performance Hall (Old WMB 119)

In this high-energy conference session, attendees will dive into the world of rapping with a focus on simple, stress-free techniques that make learning to rap enjoyable. Using a unique rap flow grid and a detailed rap flow chart, participants will break down the essentials of rhythm, rhyme, and delivery. The session emphasizes hands-on learning through cyphers, where everyone can freestyle and share their flows in a supportive environment. With plenty of play-alongs and interactive activities, the session is designed to make rapping accessible and fun, ensuring that even beginners can get comfortable with their own style and flow in no time. Expect an exciting, stress-free atmosphere where creativity and collaboration are at the forefront!

Bio already given - go here to view.

Educator as Maestro
Presenter: Maestro Serena Reuten and the Omaha Symphony
WMB 116 Rehearsal 1 (Old WMB 132)
1:15 pm - Part 1
2:30 pm - Part 2

Participate in this conducting masterclass featuring the Omaha Symphony! Guided by Assistant Conductor Serena Reuten, classroom ensemble conductors and music students are invited to work on their stick skills using their rep of choice and symphony musicians.

Please submit your application to participate as a conductor in this masterclass with the Omaha Symphony! We are seeking wind ensemble repertoire for this year’s sessions. Current college students are also encouraged to apply! One spot will be reserved for students in each session.

https://www.omahasymphony.org/educator-as-maestro

Serena Reuten is a German-Canadian conductor currently serving as the Assistant Conductor of the Omaha Symphony. Between 2024-2026 she will also join the third cohort of the Orchestre Métropolitain’s Orchestral Conducting Academy mentorship program under the guidance of Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Recent activities include participating in the 2024 Järvi Conducting Academy in Pärnu, Estonia under the mentorship of Paavo Järvi, Neeme Järvi, and Leonid Grin. She has served as guest assistant conductor for the Toronto Symphony and National Arts Centre Orchestra, as well as guest conductor with the Winnipeg Symphony during their annual Winnipeg New Music Festival. In 2023, she was the inaugural recipient of the Bernhard Gueller Conducting Fellowship with Symphony Nova Scotia as well as one of CBC’s 30 under 30 Classical Musicians. Over the past few summers she has also attended several international conducting masterclasses, studying under such conductors as Alexander Shelley and Cristian Măcelaru.

Big Learning with Small Group Centers: Using Centers in the K-5 Music Classroom
Presenter: Sarah Elker
2:30 pm, LC C

If you walk into a general music classroom you will likely see whole group instruction. The teacher serves as the director and the students are following the director. Part of learning to be in an ensemble involves working together and performing as one. The benefits of small group learning, student-lead learning, and independent learning are staggering. Incorporating small group center activities into your classroom can increase engagement, hold students accountable for their learning, and be fun. We will look at the benefits of small group activities, the logistics, and helpful tips and tricks!

Sarah Elker is a K-5 music educator with Lincoln Public Schools. She holds degrees from Eastern Illinois University and Morningside University. She has taught music for 15 years and has additional training in Orff, Conversational Solfege, and First Steps in Music. She is a member of AOSA and FAME. In her free time she likes to read and walk her dog, Clover.

Collaborative Literature for High School String Orchestra and Other Instruments, Voices, and Narrators
Presenter: Alison Gaines
2:30 pm, LC S

This session will discuss high school level literature for strings plus other collaborators to add variety to your high school programs. Music for chamber through large mixed orchestra, strings and choir, strings and vocal and instrumental soloists and even music with narrators will be featured. Lists or all featured and other non-featured suggestions will be available to all attendees.

Bio already given - go here to view.

Becoming a Recruiting Pro
Presenter: Jeff Scott
2:30 pm, GRAD Ballroom 1

This session will focus on techniques to dramatically improve recruiting efforts for the beginner music program as well as the high school music program. While the session will be given from the perspective of band recruiting, the techniques and processes presented will be appropriate for all music ensembles.

Bio already given - go here to view.

Positive Pro Active Advocacy NOW!
Presenter: David Law
2:30 pm, GRAD Ballroom 3

Proven successful strategies to protect your program before the budget axe falls.

Bio already given - go here to view.

Incorporating Student-Centered Learning in the Large Ensemble Classroom
Presenter: Ryan Diefenderfer
2:30 pm, GRAD Perkins

One way that we can keep our band, orchestra, and choir students more engaged, motivated, and intrigued is through using student-centered learning practices. This session will explore models for incorporating student-centered ideas in our full ensemble music classrooms, such as co-created music interpretations, chamber music, the Orpheus model, the CCC Model, and more.

Over the course of the past decade, Mr. Ryan Diefenderfer has served as the Director of Bands and Orchestras at Paradise Valley High School in Phoenix, Arizona and Adjunct Faculty Member at Paradise Valley Community College. Ryan is the proud recipient of the 2021 Silver Apple Arizona Teaching Award and was a Quarterfinalist for the 2024 Grammy Award in Music Education. Most recently, Mr. Diefenderfer joined the staff at Klein Cain High School in Houston, Texas as Associate Band Director. Mr. Diefenderfer received his undergraduate degree from Indiana University, and is currently finishing his Master’s Degree at Arizona State University.

Clarinet Keys to Success: Tips for the Music Educator
Presenter: Diane Barger
2:30 pm, ES Alumni Room

This session explores the basic fundamentals of clarinet pedagogy, identifies problems that clarinetists experience, and provides solutions to improving your clarinet section in your school program. Key points of discussion include tone, embouchure, air, tongue, articulation, hand position, resonance and altissimo fingerings, and equipment and accessories. A helpful handout to take home to your music program will be provided at the session.

Praised by critics for her “great virtuosity and flair” and “exquisite artistry”, Diane Barger is the Ron and Carol Cope Professor of Music (Clarinet) at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a position she has held since 1994. She received the 2013 Annis Chaikin Sorensen Award for Excellence in Teaching in the Humanities and the 2001 Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts Distinguished College Teaching Award at UNL. She is principal clarinet of Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra and is Past President of the International Clarinet Association (ICA). She also served the ICA as President (2022-2024), President elect (2020-2022), Nebraska State Chair (2010-2020), Pedagogy Chair (2016-2018), Artistic Director of the 2012 ClarinetFest®, Treasurer (2004-2010), and Coordinator of the High School Solo Competition (2003-2005). She also serves as NACWPI Nebraska State Chair and is a Buffet Crampon Artist/Clinician, a Légère Endorsing Artist, and a member of the Silverstein Pro Team. In addition to her work as a collegiate educator, Barger actively works with pre-college clarinetists and is involved in mentoring her cadre of clarinet instructors at Cornerstone Academy of Clarinet, LLC where she serves as Founder and Professor of Clarinet. Her primary clarinet teachers were Frank Kowalsky and Robert Marcellus.

Building Better Habits: Practical Techniques to Improve the Orchestra Classroom
Presenter: Jeana Peterson
2:30 pm, WMB 101 (Old WMB 110)

Discover effective strategies to address common orchestra classroom issues! This session will explore a variety of techniques, games, and activities that can be incorporated into everyday rehearsal to address issues common to string playing. Small changes to lessons and rehearsals can have a lasting impact on motivation and success. Learn techniques to improve posture, bow holds, intonation, motivation, and more, all while keeping orchestra fun for young learners. Leave with a collection of engaging, easy to implement ideas that you can apply to your elementary, middle, or high school orchestra classroom or string studio.

Bio previously given - go here to view.

Tune Up Your Teaching With the Customized Arts Learning Toolkit
Presenter: Cody Talarico
2:30 pm, WMB 131 Rehearsal 4 (Old WMB 130)

Ready to re-energize your music classroom? Dive into the Customized Arts Learning (CAL) Toolkit and transform your teaching and student engagement. In this session, you'll dive into the toolkit and explore teaching strategies that centers and celebrates the wide range of students who teach to create a music learning experiences that resonate with your students. The CAL Toolkit, developed by the State Education Agency Directors of Arts Education (SEADAE), is your backstage pass to innovative music education and engagement. It's designed to support the needs of various student backgrounds and helps you to develop a sense of community in your classroom while learning about various forms of art and music and where it originated. Walk away with a symphony of practical tools that will energize your teaching and inspire your students to new heights of musical achievement and understanding. Join Cody from the Nebraska Department of Education and member of the State Education Agency Directors of Arts Education and let's compose the future of music education together!

Bio already given - go here to view.

NCDA Reading Session
Presenter: Nebraska Choral Directors Association
2:30 pm, WMB 116 Rehearsal 1 (Old WMB 132)

NCDA will lead this reading session with titles for various levels of choral ensembles. The session will include an NCDA organization update.

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FRIDAY AFTERNOON CONCERT HOUR

Gretna High School Choir
Directed by Katelyn Wallace & Dakota Mathew
4:00 pm, StP

Directed by Katelyn Wallace and Dakota Mathew, the Gretna High School Concert Choir is a vibrant ensemble comprised of junior and senior students. Meeting daily, this dedicated group brings together a diverse mix of singers — some with years of experience and others brand new to choral music — united by a shared passion for singing and growth. The choir explores a wide variety of repertoire, spanning genres, cultures, and time periods. Alongside their commitment to excellence, the ensemble is known for its supportive spirit and the many laughs shared in rehearsal.

Katelyn Wallace is in her fifth year as choral director at Gretna High School, where she co-directs all curricular ensembles and leads the varsity show choir, Revolution. A proud Omaha native, she graduated from Millard West, earned her music education degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a master’s in educational leadership from UNO, and an educational specialist degree from William Carey University. She is married to fellow choir director Nathan Wallace, and together they have a daughter, Marlee, the joy of their lives. Katelyn feels grateful every day to teach alongside her best friend, Dakota Mathew, and work with the most incredible students — truly her dream job.

Dakota Mathew is in his third year as a choral director at Gretna High School, where he co-directs all curricular ensembles and directs the junior varsity show choir, Evolution. He lives in Gretna with his wife, McKenna, and their dog, Bubba. Originally from Harrisonville, Missouri, Dakota earned his music education degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and a master’s in curriculum and instruction from Northwest Missouri State University. With both his father and grandfather having been choir directors, music education truly runs in his blood. He is deeply grateful for the ongoing support of Gretna students, families, administration, and the greater community.

UNO Percussion Ensemble
Directed by Hannah Weaver
4:15 pm, LC Stage

The UNO Percussion Ensemble brings an energetic, innovative approach to chamber playing. Incorporating everything from world premieres and theatrical percussion to canonical staples and Brazilian samba, the group Dedicated to expanding the percussion repertoire, the group works yearly with a different living composer to feature new and exciting works. Past features have included Michael Burritt, Ivan Trevino, Andrea Venet, and Sean Calhoun. Under the direction of Dr. Hannah Weaver, the group performs regularly in the Omaha area. Recent highlights include a performance of "Inuksuit" in Iowa City with world-renowned percussionist Steve Schick.

Highly active as a chamber musician, Hannah has performed with the Des Moines Metro Opera, the Lincoln Crossroads Festival, Omaha Under the Radar, and toured as a member of the Heartland Marimba Quartet 2020-2022. She has held fellowships with the Aspen Contemporary Ensemble, Lake George Music Festival, National Repertory Orchestra, and Texas Music Festival. A sought-after performer, Hannah recently performed as a soloist in the Pittsburgh Chamber Orchestra production of Messaien’s “Des canyons aux etoiles.” Hannah performed a solo set for the 2021 World Vibraphone Congress and has performed at the Percussive Arts Society International Conference in 2021-2024. She performs regularly with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Kansas City Symphony, and Omaha Symphony. Hannah is chair of the PAS Health & Wellness Committee, President of the Nebraska PAS Chapter, Past President of CMS Central Region, and a proud endorser of Malletech and Zildjian products.

Palmyra High School Concert Band
Directed by John Furrow
4:15 pm, WMB 116 Rehearsal 1 (Old WMB 132)

The Palmyra High School Band strives for excellence in every aspect of band: Marching, Concert, and Jazz having earned numerous superior ratings over the years of the programs existence. The music department just opened up a new music wing where band and choir now have their separate rehearsal spaces along with practice rooms and storage. The program travels once every 4 years to give students other performance opportunities.

John Furrow is in his 25th year as a music educator. He has taught in all sizes of school districts on the eastern half of Nebraska. John has been a clinician and adjudicator for many events over the years. His ensembles have earned many Superior ratings in Marching Band, Jazz Band, and Concert Band. John enjoys spending time with his family and his dogs. John and his wife Michelle live in Lincoln with their two children Jacob (15) and Emma (10).

Bluffs Middle School 8th Grade Band
Directed by Michael Koch
4:15 pm, KRH

The Bluffs Middle School 8th Grade Concert Band meets daily for 45 minutes. The band members participate in marching band at the beginning of the school year performing at the Old West Weekend Parade and the Veteran’s Day Parade. The band presents three concerts throughout the school year and performs at the Music In The Parks Festival at Elitch Gardens in Denver, Colorado. Bluffs Middle School 8th Grade Concert Bands, under the direction of Mr. Koch, have performed for the NSBA convention in 2000, 2016, and 2022 and for NMEA Convention in 2002, 2018, and 2022.**The students who made this audition tape were in the 7th grade band during the 2024-2025 school year. If accepted for performance, these students would be in the 8th grade band during the 2025-2026 school year.

Michael A. Koch is currently in his thirty-seventh year in the classroom and his twenty-seventh year as Director of Bands at Bluffs Middle School in Scottsbluff, NE. He directs the 5th Grade Beginning Band program, the 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade Concert Bands, the Middle School Jazz Band, the Middle School Marching Band and assists with the High School Marching and Concert Bands. Prior to coming to Scottsbluff, Mr. Koch taught in Bridgeport, Shickley, and Milford, all in Nebraska. Mr. Koch received a Bachelor of Music degree from Hastings College (1988) and a Master of Music Education degree from the University of Nebraska Lincoln (1998). He received the Jack R. Snider Young Band Director Award (1994), was recognized by the Scottsbluff Jaycees as Outstanding Teacher (2003), has received a Citation of Excellence from the National Band Association (2003, 2017, 2019, 2023), was selected Music Educator of the Year by the Nebraska Music Educators Association (2013), received a Career Teacher Award for 35 years of dedicated service to music education in Nebraska from N.M.E.A (2022), and was inducted into the Nebraska Music Education Association Music Educators Hall of Fame (2024).Mr. Koch is the current President-Elect of the Nebraska State Bandmasters Association, is a past Board Member of the Nebraska Music Educators Association (Middle-Level Affairs - 2007 & 2008), he is a staff member for the Nebraska Ambassadors of Music (2003 to present - traveling to Europe ten times), and a member of Phi Beta Mu International School Bandmaster Fraternity. He is also a member of the Nebraska Music Educators Association, National Association for Music Education, Nebraska State Bandmasters Association, Nebraska State Education Association, and the Scottsbluff Education Association.

Wayne State College Choir
Directed by Matthew Armstrong
4:30 pm, StP

One of four choirs at Wayne State, The Wayne State College Choir is the institution’s large flagship choral ensemble. Part of a vibrant music department, the choir consists of many dedicated music majors as well as talented singers representing various academic disciplines throughout the campus. They perform a wide variety of secular and sacred literature including new works and staples of the choral repertoire from any time period. They also host the annual WSC Festival of Honor Choirs Mixed Choir, present traditional Holiday Concerts, and intentionally get to know one another as a family unit during and outside of regular rehearsals. Wayne State College is Northeast Nebraska’s destination for arts and culture. Since 2022, they have hosted Chanticleer, The King’s Singers, Voctave and the Canadian Brass. They host The Vienna Boys Choir in the 2025 season. The tradition of commitment to excellence in choral music continues at Wayne State College!

Dr. Matthew Armstrong is Director of Choirs at Wayne State College where alongside pianist, Shelly Armstrong, he is blessed to lead four choirs. Active clinicians, they have directed festivals including the NCDA All State Concert Choir, Nebraska Ambassadors of Music European tour, and Iowa Opus Honor Choir. Their compositions published by Santa Barbara and E.C. Schirmer have been performed at honor and all state festivals. Holding degrees from Wartburg College, VanderCook College of Music, and the University of Nebraska¬¬-Lincoln, Matthew draws upon 15 years of K-12 teaching experience. His school choirs had the distinction of earning perfect ballots in concert, chamber, madrigal, jazz, and show choir categories, won the class 4A Iowa Jazz Championships three times, and were selected to regional and national ACDA conferences. The Armstrongs’ greatest joy is supporting the musical endeavors of their son Gabriel (17) at Wayne HS and daughter Norah (18) at Belmont University.

Westside Middle School Select Choir
Directed by Tom Gerking
4:30 pm, WMB 130 Performance Hall (Old WMB 119)

The Westside Middle School Vocal Music Department proudly presents it's 2025-2026 8th Grade Select Choir. This auditioned ensemble is made up of 60 8th grade singers. There are currently 335 singers involved in the 7-8 choral program at Westside Middle School. Many of the members are involved in a variety of music, athletic, and academic teams offered at Westside Middle School as well as outside of school activities. This group loves the opportunity to work on challenging music to help them grow musically as an ensemble.

Tom Gerking is currently in his 35th year of teaching vocal music. The first 33 years were spent at Westwood Community School in Sloan, Iowa. The singers at Westwood achieved honors such as All-State Chorus, Opus Honor Choir, and Outstanding Performance award winners at the IHSMA Solo/Ensemble Festival. Student participation averaged 60-70% of the entire high school. Many of the Westwood singers participated in several different honor choirs, performing the national anthem throughout the school year, madrigal dinners, musicals, and show choir. Mr.Gerking currently leads over 330 singers in the Westside Middle School Vocal Music Department in Omaha, Nebraska. Over 130 of those students are involved in show choir (Westside Connection and Treble Express). 45 singers were selected to perform in the NMEA Mid-Level All-State Chorus in the fall of 2024. Mr.Gerking started a Unified music class this year which involves approximately 15 students along with their peer models.

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AWARDS DINNER

The annual Awards Dinner will take place on Friday, November 21 at the Cornhusker Hotel Atrium and Grand Ballroom. Social hour will take place at 5:15 pm, with live music. The dinner will begin at 6:00 pm.

Advance ticket purchase is required to attend the Awards Dinner. Tickets are now available for purchase. The Early Bird Awards Dinner ticket price is $40. Starting November 1, the Awards Dinner ticket price increases to $50. Ticket sales will open on September 1.

Purchase Awards Dinner Tickets

Meal choices for the 2025 Awards Dinner are:

• Spiced Apple Chutney Pork Loin*
• Lemon Salmon
• Asparagus Portobello Risotto (vegetarian)

*Any tickets not purchased in advance will be the default meal of pork loin.

Collegiate Members' tickets are included with their conference registration.

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Saturday, November 22

SATURDAY SESSIONS

Key Changes: Modulating Your Classroom with Technology & AI
Presenter: Kim Bruguier
8:00 am, LC C

Technology in the music classroom is constantly changing and now we throw the craziness of AI in the mix.  Ideas on how to get the most out of technology in your classroom and use it for good!

Bio already given - go here to view.

Little Ears, Big Impact
Presenter: JJ Toy
8:00 am, LC S

Do you want new ideas to engage your students in active listening? Join us for a hands-on session where we’ll explore innovative ways to listen to pop, classical, folk, and more! You’ll leave this session with tools you can immediately implement in your classroom.

JJ Toy graduated from Belmont University in Nashville, TN with a degree in K-12 Music Education.  An avid pianist, he has played around the country as well as internationally.  Before joining the Quaver team, JJ taught high school, middle school, and elementary music in Nashville area schools.

Connecting Kids with Creativity
Presenter: Mike Olander
8:00 am, GRAD Ballroom 1

The future is multimedia. Music, film-scoring, and audio editing skills are essential in all media. And you don’t need to be an accomplished composer to use and teach with accessible, engaging creative tools. We’ll explore tools for film scoring, podcasting, and more using a variety of kid-friendly interfaces, with options for traditional music notation too. Need to start a new course with legit career skills? Real-world music production and performance go hand-in-hand, but most school programs focus on only music practice & performance. Music industry demands that performers also compose/create, record, and produce. Digital tools like YuStudio, OGenPlus, and Soundtrap, support those additional goals. While they look (and are) fun, these software tools contain their own type of music literacy that feeds into traditional notation as well as the professional music studio. And you’ll attract music-loving students not currently in your performance ensembles (the “other 80%”).

Mike Olander, as an Education Manager with MusicFirst, advocates for music programs by encouraging the adoption of technology solutions designed to save time, simplify tasks, and drive student engagement and growth. He has worked for MusicFirst, Wenger Corporation, MakeMusic, Music Prodigy, JAMF Software, and Edmentum leading teacher workshops and training, staff development sessions, and serving as a consultant for schools across the country.

Beyond the Notes: A Game-Changing Approach for Music Educators
Presenter: Glenn Pohland
8:00 am, GRAD Ballroom 3

Join us for an engaging and innovative session that explores how the use of technology can transform your approach to teaching and learning. This session will go beyond traditional note-reading and fingerings, focusing on strategies to develop tone quality, overall musicianship, improvisation, and student engagement through interactive tools and technology.This clinic is designed for music educators at all levels who want to maximize their students’ musical growth while fostering a love for music. Whether you're teaching a beginning band, orchestra, choir or an advanced ensemble, you'll leave with practical, game-changing strategies that can immediately impact your classroom.Let’s move beyond the notes and create a more dynamic, engaging, and effective music-learning experience!

Dr. Glenn Pohland began teaching at Loras College in 2009, serving as associate professor in the communication and fine arts division. Dr. Pohland conducts the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble and chamber groups. He also teaches courses in music education, orchestration, instrumental techniques, music in the movies, and instrumental conducting. Dr. Pohland received his BA in music education from St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN, his MMEd from the University of Minnesota, and his DMA in instrumental music education and conducting from Arizona State University.

Tackling the Intonation Monster
Presenter: Louie Eckhardt
8:00 am, GRAD Perkins

We all know that our bands could improve on their intonation. But how do we do it? What tools do we use? What exercises do we use? How much time do we spend on it? This presentation will focus on some practical techniques that can be employed by any music educator on a daily basis to improve ensemble intonation. Have some good ideas yourself? Bring them, and we'll all share in making Better Intonation in Nebraska.

Dr. Louie Eckhardt is currently Associate Professor of Music and Chair of the Department of Music and Theatre at Hastings College where he teaches applied brass, music history, conducting, and directs the College Band. Dr. Eckhardt is currently principal trumpet of the Hastings Symphony Orchestra and the Cathedral Brass Quintet. He has also performed with orchestras throughout Nebraska, Louisiana, and Texas, and is active as an adjudicator and clinician throughout the region.. In addition, Dr. Eckhardt plays Baroque trumpet with various early music groups in San Francisco, Houston, and Austin, TX. He holds degrees from Hastings College, Penn State University, and Louisiana State University. He has studied trumpet with Daniel Schmidt, Langston J. Fitzgerald, III, and Brian Shaw, as well as additional studies with Denny Schneider, Keith Benjamin, John Thiessen, Charles Lirette, and Vance Woolf. His conducting teachers include Donald McKinney and Carlos Riazuelo, and additional studies with Dennis Glocke.

Inspiring Excellence: Developing Student Leadership Within Your Marching Band Program
Presenter: Chris Harper
8:00 am, ES Alumni Room

This session will provide strategies for identifying and developing student leaders to assist with various aspects of the marching band, including full band rehearsals, fundamentals, sectionals, and other tasks that support the director's efficiency—especially in settings with limited resources and no additional staff. Drawing on twenty-four years of experience teaching in mostly smaller schools, the clinician will share proven methods for empowering students to take on leadership roles, fostering a sense of pride, and celebrating their contributions to the band's success. Attendees will leave with practical tools to create a more dynamic, student-driven rehearsal environment.

Dr. Chris Harper, band director at Long County High School in Ludowici, Georgia, brings 24 years of music education experience. He holds degrees from Valdosta State University, Troy University, and Liberty University. Dr. Harper has expanded his expertise internationally, studying musician motivation under Dr. Dale Lonis and Dr. Fraser Linklater through the Canadian Wind Conductors Development Program. In 2011, his innovative approach to ensemble programming and music technology integration was featured in The Instrumentalist magazine. A sought-after presenter, Dr. Harper has delivered impactful sessions at music conferences nationwide, covering topics such as recruitment and retention in small/rural schools, practical interview preparation, and strategies for overcoming cognitive conflicts in the workplace. His engaging clinics have made a lasting impact on the music education community.

Progressive Repertoire for the Double Bass: Clarifying a Neglected Resource
Presenter: Matthew McGrory
8:00 am, WMB 101 (Old WMB 110)

Progressive Repertoire for the Double Bass by George Vance has gained substantial popularity with double bass instructors across the world. Developed from François Rabbath’s Nouvelle Technique de la Contrebasse, Progressive Rep is designed to start beginning bass players and take them all the way to college auditions. However, almost all heterogeneous method books avoid this controversial approach, and teachers often feel intimidated by the presentation and alignment of the material.This session will explore Rabbath’s mapping of the fingerboard and compare those techniques to the traditional Simandl left-hand approach. After leaving this session, teachers should feel comfortable using Progressive Rep as supplemental material to improve their bass players. Accessing and utilizing Progressive Rep will give classroom teachers more resources for bass players and offer bass students more solo repertoire for contests, introduce the concept of pivoting in the left hand, and provide a resource for accessing thumb position.

Dr. Matthew T. McGrory is Associate Professor of Music at Garden City Community College, directing the GC3 Orchestra, Southwest Kansas Youth Orchestra, and the Southwest Kansas Community Orchestra. Prior to his appointment at GC3, Dr. McGrory taught orchestra and band in the public schools of Spring Hill, Kansas for four years. Dr. McGrory is also an active researcher, examining parental influence in instrumental music and string pedagogy. An accomplished double bassist as well, Dr. McGrory has performed with regional symphonies all over the Midwest, including subbing for the Kansas City Symphony and serving as Principal Double Bass for the Saint Joseph Symphony, Midwest Chamber Ensemble, and section bass for the Topeka Symphony. While at KU, Dr. McGrory performed with the University of Kansas Wind Ensemble and can be heard as the solo bass on Pete Meechan’s work “Dreams Unseen,” which won the 2023 American Prize in Band/Wind Ensemble Performance.

Three Cheers for Women Composers
Presenter: John Petzet
8:00 am, WMB 131 Rehearsal 4 (Old WMB 130)

The choral community is fortunate to have spectacular music written by women composers. This session will provide composer background information, octavo ordering data, a paragraph describing each piece, and recordings. Pieces will be explored for all types of choirs: elementary, middle-school, high-school, collegiate choirs, and church choirs.

Dr. John Martin Petzet is Associate Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at the University of Nebraska-Kearney. He conducts the Choraleers, Collegium, Men’s and Women’s Choruses, and teaches Secondary Choral Methods and Choral Conducting. Furthermore, he has conducted honor choirs across Louisiana and in Colorado, was invited to teach at the West Texas Choral Workshop, and to teach, present, and conduct at La Universidad Autónoma De Ciudad Juárez and to work with the Anaíma Ensamble Vocal in Juárez, Mexico. Dr. Petzet has also presented interest sessions in Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah. While performing with the Kansas City Chorale, he sang on the Chandos recording of Alexandre Grechaninov’s Passion Week, which won a Grammy for Best Engineered Classical Album. He resides in Kearney, Nebraska with his lovely wife Jennifer and his 3 children: Zachary, Andrew, and Catherine.

I've Forgotten How Children Sing!
Presenter: Deanna Goranson
8:00 am, WMB 130 Performance Hall (Old WMB 119)

After high school choir, four years of singing choral music at the collegiate level, and maybe a few years teaching secondary voices, it’s hard to remember what it was like to sing as a child. What may appear simple at first glance of an octavo, may actually be really challenging for a young choir to master. This session will help you better understand young voices and give examples of appropriate writing that will grow your singers without discouraging them.

Deanna Goranson has made Scottsbluff, Nebraska her home for the last13 years. She is the founder and director of the Valley Voices Children's Choir, an unauditioned ensemble for 3rd-8th grade treble voices. She is also the K-8 music teacher at Community Christian School and an adjunct voice professor at Western Nebraska Community College. Assuming throughout undergrad that she would be a high school choir teacher, Deanna knew very little about children's voices when she began the Valley Voices Children's Choir in 2015. That learning curve turned into a passion for young voices. She focused the research of her Master's Capstone on choral music for children and wants to empower other educators to begin growing musicians at an early age. Deanna is married to Nick, a teacher and coach at Scottsbluff High, and they have two young daughters, Rhen and Piper.

A Qualitative Study: Motivational UDL Engagement Strategies for Students that are Non-Verbal in the K-12 Music Education Classroom
Presenter: William Green
8:00 am, WMB 116 Rehearsal 1 (Old WMB 132)

I have conducted qualitative interviews from experienced music teachers around the Lincoln and Omaha areas that work specifically with students who are non-verbal and see what they have seen effective in their teaching with engaging and motivating this particular population of students. My proposed session will be to inform and explore these engagement strategies and give K-12 music educators resources on how to better serve all our students in our classrooms specifically those who are non-verbal. My session will have hands on activities as well as discussion and questions. I will have slides for presentation and active discussion platforms for input.

My name is Will Green, and I spent 10 years teaching music education at Sunny Slope Elementary in Omaha Public Schools as a General Music Educator. In addition to my teaching, I was also actively involved in the Omaha community as a wedding singer and vocalist for local Catholic churches. Throughout my teaching career, I developed a strong passion for working with students with disabilities and creating a safe, inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive in music education. For the past 10 years, I’ve been part of the i2 (Intergenerational Exponentially Better Together) Choir at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a group that has inspired me to become a better music educator and teacher. Currently, I am in my second year as a PhD student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I also serve as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, where I assist with grading, teach methodology classes in music education, observe student teaching, and help with the i2 choir. My research focuses on developing engagement strategies that are effective in inclusive music classrooms, particularly for non-verbal students, and exploring how we can foster intrinsic musicianship in them.I am deeply passionate about making a difference, inspiring, and caring for the future musicians and educators of tomorrow!

Program Movement through Student Exploration - GPOC
Presenter: Lori Mills with GPOC
9:15 am, LC C

This session will provide a primary and intermediate example of how to incorporate student created movement into programs.

Lori Mills has taught PreK-8th general music in her 11 years of teaching. For 7 of those years, Lori directed a 4th-8th choir, and she was the director for three junior high musicals. Lori earned her Bachelor's degree in Music Education with a minor in dance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She also received her Master's of Music with an specialization in Music Education from UNL. In addition, Lori has completed Levels I, II, and III of Orff Schulwerk at UNL and Level I of Kodály from the University of Nebraska-Omaha.

Internet or InterNOT: Make Your Lessons POP!
Presenter: JJ Toy
9:15 am, LC S

School wifi strikes again! In this session, we’ll explore resources and strategies to adapt your teaching to utilize less (or no) technology by creating a grab bag of low-tech activities to have at your disposal. How can we meet the same objectives as we had planned with different resources and activities from a “no-tech tub”?

Bio already given - go here to view.

Working Smarter, Not Harder: Score Study for Rehearsal Efficiency
Presenter: Dave Sanderson
9:15 am, GRAD Ballroom 1

This session presents ways to use score analysis to make rehearsals more efficient and improve students' musical development. Participants will review tips for screening and evaluating scores to determine their appropriateness for ensembles and delve deeper into score study to develop effective teaching approaches. A method to create a long-term rehearsal plan based on score analysis, proactively addressing technical, musical, and confidence-building considerations, will be shared. Practical techniques for using warm-ups to develop technique, musicality, and independence among ensemble members will be discussed. Additionally, the session will provide tips for preparing to conduct and lead rehearsals in ways that meet the needs of the group.

Bio already given - go here to view.

Let’s Start at the Very Beginning: Rethinking Beginning Band
Presenter: Glenn Pohland
9:15 am, GRAD Ballroom 3

After teaching instrumental music for 38 years, it is easy to believe the adage that says “If I only knew then what I know now!” The focus of this clinic presentation is to discuss the evolution of my teaching methods and give my insights into ways that can be more effective and more successful in the teaching of beginning instrumentalists. During this clinic, participants will hear ideas about how to teach the fundamentals of tone production, audiation, the mother-tongue approach, rote learning of the first 5 notes, echo playing, and other basic concepts. Giving beginners a great start helps develop great ensembles.

Bio already given - go here to view.

Bloom: Children's Choir Music to Grow On
Presenter: Krista Hart
9:15 am, GRAD Perkins

Sow the seeds of musicianship with the stepping stones found in well-crafted 2-part choral repertoire. In this session, we'll explore a range of strategies to nurture blossoming voices and inspire artistic growth. Clinician Krista Hart offers a bouquet of possibilities to help children's choirs flourish! A complimentary music packet will be given to each director in attendance.

Bio already given - go here to view.

Preventing Burnout: Practical Strategies for Sustaining Passion and Well-Being in Music Education
Presenter: Chris Harper
9:15 am, ES Alumni Room

This session addresses the challenges music educators face, often leading to burnout. Early-career educators, influenced by unrealistic expectations, and veteran educators, burdened by changing philosophies and personal demands, can all experience stress that affects job satisfaction and career retention. This session covers the causes and signs of burnout, offering preventative measures and strategies for managing stress. It also highlights the personal and professional consequences, from creating a toxic work environment to harming health and relationships. Additionally, educators have felt the effects of COVID on the diminishing work ethics and success of students in the classroom. Drawing on research and the clinician’s personal experience with burnout, the session provides practical methods to protect mental and physical well-being, helping educators regain their passion and sustain a fulfilling career.

Bio already given - go here to view.

The Rehearsal - Approaching the Podium with Confidence on Day 1
Presenter: Zack Deininger
9:15 am, WMB 101 (Old WMB 110)

You’ve got the job….now what?! There are a myriad of items needing a new band director’s attention. Administrative tasks, scheduling, meeting students, and planning the year are all important and necessary. Our primary job, however, is the rehearsal and instruction of the ensemble. Inspired by recent questions from my undergraduate students, this session offers thoughts and ideas on setting a strong rehearsal standard from day one.

Dr. Zack Deininger is the Assistant Director of Bands at Kansas State University. He assists with all aspects of the “Pride of Wildcat Land”, including arranging and drill writing, serves as Co-Director of the Cat Band (basketball band), directs the Volleyball Band and Concert Band, and instructs courses in undergraduate conducting. Deininger received his Doctor of Musical Arts in Wind Conducting from the University of South Carolina, a Master’s in Education from Auburn University, and a Bachelor’s of Music in Music Education from Bowling Green State University. He taught at Green Valley High School in Henderson, Nevada (a suburb of Las Vegas) and has served as a clinician and instructor at various marching leadership camps and band festivals throughout the country.

Adapting Rock Music Curriculum for High School and College Audiences
Presenters: Tomm Roland & Mark Irvin
9:15 am, WMB 131 Rehearsal 4 (Old WMB 130)

Rock music holds immense educational potential, engaging students across diverse backgrounds while fostering critical thinking, cultural understanding, and musical literacy. This session explores strategies for designing and implementing a rock music curriculum tailored to different student audiences, with a focus on high school and collegiate settings. Led by a secondary school specialist and a college specialist, the presentation will examine key considerations such as audience type (music students vs. general arts and humanities students), geographic context (urban vs. rural schools), and interdisciplinary connections to social sciences and history. Attendees will gain practical tools for incorporating rock music into their teaching, ensuring relevance and accessibility for students with varying musical backgrounds and academic interests.

Tomm Roland, holds Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from California State University, Sacramento and a Doctor of Musical Arts from SUNY Stony Brook. His principal teachers have been Ronald Holloway, Daniel Kennedy, and Raymond DesRoches. In addition he also studied South Indian drumming under the auspices of the Fulbright Scholar program. Tomm has given clinics, masterclasses, and conference presentations throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. Dr. Roland is a Professor of Music at the University of Nebraska, Omaha where he teaches courses on world music, rock history, and The Beatles and coordinates the ommercial music program. His textbook The Beatles: A Magical History Tour in 15 Songs was published in 2019 and his most recent textbook, Timeless Wavelengths: A Rock History was published in 2024. Tomm is an artist for Zildjian cymbals and Vic Firth sticks and mallets.

Mark Irvin is a singer/songwriter, recording artist, music educator and freelance musician from Omaha, Nebraska.Mark was a self-taught musician out of high school spent a decade working as a musician, both solo and with several bands. Mark, was inducted into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame in 2010. Mark earned a BA in Music Education from UNO andreceived his Masters Degree in Education In Curriculum and Instruction from Doane University as well as 48 additional graduate hours from University Of Nebraska at Lincoln, University Of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Wisconsin, and Duquesne University.Mark retired after a 30 year career as a music educator in 2022.He continues to work solo and group dates in support of his music as well as free-lancing for other groups in the area. He also remains active as a clinician and directing honor bands across the Midwest.

Effective Instruction for Unlocking the Treble Voice
Presenter: Marci Malone DeAmbrose
9:15 am, WMB 130 Performance Hall (Old WMB 119)

This proposal aims to explore and implement effective instructional techniques for unlocking the potential of the treble voice during adolescence, with a primary focus on middle school choral classrooms. Adolescence presents unique challenges for young singers, which will be addressed through both a physiological and sociological perspective. By understanding the physical change and emotional development that occur during this stage, I will provide practical solutions to enhance vocal technique and overall musicianship. The presentation will include vocal exercises designed to promote healthy vocal development, emphasizing breath management, resonant tone production and body alignment. Additionally, I will focus on creating a positive, supportive classroom environment that fosters self-confidence, emotional expression, and collaboration among students.

Dr. Marci Malone DeAmbrose has over two decades of experience in music education across diverse settings, including roles in elementary, secondary, and post-secondary institutions. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) where she instructs courses in choral music education and directs the University Chorale. Building on her extensive experience in music education, Dr. DeAmbrose’s work extends beyond the classroom. Her research interests span all levels of music education, focusing on preservice music teacher education, culturally responsive teaching in public schools, and the adolescent changing voice. Dr. DeAmbrose also contributes actively to service and creative activities, serving as a commissioner for the Music in Schools and Teacher Education Commission (MISTEC). She has been recognized with honors such semi-finalist for the 2024 Grammy Music Educator of the Year award and a recipient of the UNL Mortar Board People Who Inspire award. Dr. DeAmbrose enjoys living in the Lincoln community with her husband Chris and her four children.

String Orchestra POP Reading Session
Presenter: Tom Miller
9:15 am, WMB 116 Rehearsal 1 (Old WMB 132)

Join Tom Miller of SNJ Studios and NEASTA with J.W.Pepper as they provide a thrilling and invigorating sight-reading session of some of the best popular music arrangements that you can bring to your classroom in the future.

Tom holds music education degrees from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (Undergraduate) and Morningside University (Graduate). Having over 20 years of teaching experience, Tom has taught strings, show choir, theater, and art in both the Sioux City Community and Omaha Public Schools District. He currently works at Boys Town where he has created and teaches a middle school fine arts elective program (art, theater, and music) and has started a beginning strings program. He has been a recipient of the Nebraska ASTA Outstanding Teacher of the Year award and the Omaha Public Schools Alice Buffett Outstanding Teacher award. He currently serves as past-president for Nebraska ASTA, a sectional coach for the Omaha Area Youth Orchestras, and as Director of Alternative Programming, The Branch Out Series, for the Shelterbelt Theater.

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SATURDAY MORNING CONCERT HOUR

Valley Voices Children’s Choir
Directed by Deanna Goranson
10:30 am, StP

The Valley Voices is a community choir that has been making music in Scotts Bluff County since 1949. In 2015, Deanna Goranson expanded the organization by starting the Valley Voices Children's Choir. The ensemble is non-auditioned and open to singers 3rd-8th grade with an unchanged voice. The group meets for just over and hour once a week and typically presents two concerts annually.

Bio already given for Deanna Goranson - go here to view.

Osmond High School Choir
Directed by Christalin Ginn
10:30 am, WMB 130 Performance Hall (Old WMB 119)

The Osmond High School Choir may be small, but they are a powerhouse of talent and dedication. With just 18 members, they consistently earn spots in the Lewis and Clark Conference Honor Choir and have proudly received a perfect score plaque at the District Music Contest for the past three years. The choir has also been represented at the NMEA All-State Choir for three consecutive years by Erin Wagner. Performing over eight times a year, they bring music to their community with heartfelt concerts, especially honoring veterans and fallen heroes on Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Their passion, commitment, and exceptional musicianship make them a standout ensemble, proving that great things come in small packages.

Christalin Ginn has been the 5-12 band and 7-12 choir director at Osmond Community Schools for 10 years. A graduate of Doane University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education (K-12 Instrumental and Vocal Certification), Christalin Ginn has played a key role in hosting the District Music Contest and the Lewis and Clark Conference Honor Band and Choir events. Dedicated to professional growth, Christalin Ginn has been actively involved in organizations such as the Nebraska Music Educators Association, National Association for Music Education, and the Nebraska State Bandmasters Association. Passionate about fostering musical excellence, Christalin Ginn continues to inspire students through dynamic instruction and performance opportunities.

Plainview Pirate Band
Directed by Wynter Fulsaas
10:45 am, WMB 116 Rehearsal 1 (Old WMB 132)

The band is comprised of students in grades 7 through 12 with the largest class being the 9th Grade. The pirates have seen great success, with a few members being selected NMEA All-State members and many more being Honor Band participants. The ensemble has achieved greatly at marching band events, Battle of the band events, and District Music Contest. They were also one of the recently selected groups to play in the capitol building for the Capitol Concert Series. It should be noted that nearly all students in the ensemble are involved in 2-3+ more activities at one time, outside of band, while achieving highly in the classroom, proving, no school is too small to have it all.

Wynter Fulsaas is in her third year teaching at Plainview Public Schools, teaching 3-6 Elementary Music and 5-12 Instrumental Music, along with coaching One Act. Wynterearned her degree from Wayne State College in Vocal/Instrumental K-12 MusicEducation. She is also very active in the Norfolk Community Band and the NortheastArea Jazz Ensemble.

University Singers
Directed by Pete Eklund
11:00 am, StP

UNL’s historic premier choral ensemble, “University Singers,” represent the finest, most versatile singers in the University. They have performed nationally, internationally, and have performed on conferences of ACDA and NAfME. In 2001, 2008, and 2016 the choir was featured on prestigious 8 PM solo performances at Carnegie Hall where they received full-house standing ovations. Under their current conductor, this ensemble has matriculated many of the finest choral conductors in the nation.While they focus on traditional and world inclusive collegiate literature during fall term, spring terms allows them to focus on seminal major works including Bach’s B Minor Mass, Britten's War Requiem, Verdi Requiem, Tallis’s 40-part motet "Spem in Alium," Walton's "Belshazzar’s Feast," Liszt’s "Christus," Hindemith’s "When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd," Monteverdi’s Vespers, Messiah, plus nearly every major choral/orchestral work by Haydn, Mozart, and Handel. Furthermore, this ensemble has also been the chorus for numerous award-winning University operas.

Pete Eklund is President of the UNL Faculty, national finalist for the 2024 National Federation Outstanding Music Educator, national quarterfinalist for the first-ever GRAMMY® NATIONAL MUSIC TEACHER OF THE YEAR (30,000 nominees), Hixon-Lied Professor and Director of Choral Activities, where he annually conducts ensembles in Europe and America. His concertizing/clinician schedule includes professional, orchestral, collegiate, youth, liturgical, and over 3-dozen All-State ensembles. He’s conducted frequently in Carnegie Hall, Mozart’s Salzburg Cathedral, Paris's Notre Dame, Venice’s St. Mark's, Oxford’s Christ Church, Washington DC's Kennedy Center and National Cathedral, London’s St. Paul's, Vienna’s St. Stephen's, and other prestigious cathedrals/churches in Prague, Strasbourg, Milan, Barcelona, Rouen, Beauvais, Monaco, Munich, Normandy, Chartres, Chambord, LeMans, Cambridge, Munich, Nürnberg, Reins, Verona, Coventry, and Canterbury.Eklund studied with International Mahler Medal-winner James Dixon, ACDA past-president (UNL alum) William Hatcher, and scholar/pedagogue/conductor Don Moses. His music is published by Hal Leonard, CollaVoce, Hope, Concordia, MusicSpoke, and Santa Barbara.

Live and Let Slide
Directed by Alex Hoffman & Ian Rutherford
11:00 am, WMB 130 Performance Hall (Old WMB 119)

Live and Let Slide is a professional trombone ensemble of performers and educators who are dedicated to bringing both art music and popular music together in a variety of venues. We are committed to celebrating under-performed works including those by BIPOC and female composers. We perform educational shows and recitals. The group consists of the top-call trombonists in the Lincoln/Omaha area including members who have performed with the Omaha Symphony, Lincoln’s Symphony, Sioux City Symphony, South Dakota Symphony, Des Moines Symphony, Nebraska Jazz Orchestra, Lincoln Municipal Band, Downtown Collective, the Diamond Empire Band, various local big bands, combos, and rock bands. We have full-time musicians, professors/teachers, students, and others working outside the music industry. The group was founded by Ian Rutherford, Alex Hoffman conducts, and both arrange. They are joined by Jared Bade, Josh Blazek, Raymond Brown, Liam Hughes, Ty Martin, Aaron Pierce, Angel Rodriguez-Villalobos, and Luke Thallas.

Alex Hoffman is a trombonist, conductor, arranger, and is currently the 6-8 Orchestra Director at Scott Middle School in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was also the Assistant Director of Marching Band at Lincoln Southeast High School for two years and continues to help assist with their band program. Alex graduated from UNL in 2023 with a Bachelor’s in Music Education. As a trombonist, he has performed with Lincoln’s Symphony, is a freelance musician, and was a soloist with the Lincoln Municipal Band. He is passionate about conducting and arranging, especially for trombone choir, and has had arrangements of Florence Price’s Adoration, Robert Schumann’s Konzertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra, and more performed by Live and Let Slide. An avid film fan, Alex enjoys introducing his orchestras to a variety of classical, popular, and film music in the classroom.

Dr. Ian Rutherford is currently an adjunct professor of music at all of the area’s private universities, teaching trombone and a variety of ensembles and courses. He has also lectured at University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he taught History of Rock and Roll. Ian finished his DMA in trombone performance at UNL in 2023. Before attending graduate school, he was the 5-12 Band Director at West Sioux Public Schools in Hawarden, Iowa for two years. Ian is an active freelance trombonist and clinician. He has performed with the Omaha Symphony, Des Moines Symphony, Sioux City Symphony, Lincoln’s Symphony, and South Dakota Symphony Orchestra. On the commercial side, Ian is a vocalist and trombonist with the Diamond Empire Band, Downtown Collective, and many other local bands. Ian has shared the stage with John Faddis, Second City, Evelyn Glennie, Danny Elfman, Aaron Diehl, Mark O’Connor, Keith Lockhart, among others.

Kearney High School Camerata
Directed by Sadie Uhing
11:00 am, KRH

Camerata is Kearney High School’s premier auditioned string ensemble, representing the pinnacle of musical excellence within the school’s growing orchestra program. This ensemble represents some of the most dedicated and talented student musicians in grades 9–12. Camerata, deriving from the Italian word camaraderie, is known for its commitment to performing advanced repertoire and fostering a culture of artistic growth. The ensemble performs multiple concerts annually and frequently participates in community events, festivals, and adjudicated contests.

Sadie Uhing serves as the Orchestra Director at Kearney High School and directs the Symphonic Orchestra, Camerata, Concert Orchestra, and 8th Grade Orchestras at Horizon and Sunrise Middle Schools. She is a Nebraska native and recent graduate from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Sadie has played ensembles such as the Nebraska Brass Band, Kearney Symphony Orchestra, and the Flatwater Jazz Orchestra. She is also a member of the National Association for Music Education, the Nebraska Music Education Association, Nebraska String Teachers Association, and the American String Teachers Association. She currently serves as the Secretary for NE-ASTA and Vice President of the Tri-City Youth Symphony.

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