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Copyright
© 2010
Indiana Bandmasters Association
100 East Thompson Road
Indianapolis, IN 46227
Greetings Colleagues!
I
hope that everyone had a great summer, that you found some time to rest
and rejuvenate, and that you are ready for another year of service to
Indiana students. As a proud member of this great organization 'dedicated
to better Indiana bands', I truly appreciate the selfless attitude of
so many directors who give of their expertise, time and energy to further
the musical education of Indiana's 'band kids'. Whether you prepped students
to audition, hosted or helped with All-Region, All-District or All-State
bands or served on the IBA board I sincerely thank you.
Since I am at the mid-point of my service as President I would like to
recognize those who made such outstanding contributions last year. I would
like to thank Todd Lehman and Ron Eads for their years of service on the
IBA board as their terms come to an end. Rick and Candi Granlund produced
a fantastic historical booklet commemorating the Golden Anniversary of
the Indiana All-State Bands, which all IBA members will receive. Jay Gephart
and the staff and students from Purdue University Bands continue to host
our All-State weekend with exceptional hospitality and a 'can do' attitude.
Myron Snuffin serves tirelessly as IBA Treasurer yet does so much more
than minutes and financial statements to keep our organization on the
right track.
As I look forward to the new IBA year there are new faces on the board and new projects in the works. I want to welcome our newest board members: Candi Granlund who will serve as District II Representative and Dave Kahl who will be the District III Representative. They both bring expertise and energy to the organization that will help to continue our success.
IBA is preparing to launch a Mentorship Project under the leadership of Glenn Northern that I believe will prove to be invaluable to director's both young and … experienced. Keep an eye on the IBA website www.indianabandmasters.org for more information on this developing program as the year progresses. Another exciting event in the IBA year will take place at the January IMEA convention. Dr. Jeff Doebler's 'Windiana' professional concert band and Valparaiso University band will be presenting two concerts where they will perform and record all 17 of the compositions that have been created to date through the IBA Commission project. What a wonderful way to celebrate the legacy IBA has given to bands not only in Indiana but around the world! Make sure you plan to attend this year's IMEA convention in Fort Wayne for these 'don't miss' performances.
One of the perks associated with being IBA President is the opportunity to select All-State Conductors. As I began thinking about the teachers that have most influenced me I knew exactly who would be on my short list. This year's All-State Band will be conducted by Dr. Jeff Doebler of Valparaiso University. The Honor Band will be conducted by Prof. Jay Gephart of Purdue University. Both of these gentlemen are world-class conductors that epitomize the mentorship of fellow directors that IBA has targeted as a goal. I personally have benefitted immensely from both of these outstanding teachers' influence on my life. Come to All State weekend, March 11-13, 2011 to watch and learn as these master musicians work with the best of our best Indiana band students.
In
closing I would like to challenge those directors who, like me, for many
years benefitted from the activities of IBA without really getting involved.
I can assure you that the time it takes to participate will be richly
rewarded through new friendships, a stronger network of colleagues, and
renewed strength for the tasks at hand in every band director's life.
Make this the year that you give back to the organization that has done
so much for Indiana bands and the thousands of students we serve. I promise
you will be glad you did.