Candi Granlund
cgranlund@zcs.k12.in.us

Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year.  In this chaotic and unpredictable world in which we are living, I hope that you have found time to relax and recharge for the upcoming year. 

Gilda Radner said, “Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next.”  This quote is so applicable to what we do on a daily basis!  As we begin this new school year, remember that this is a fresh start for all of us.  It is difficult to look past the last two+ years as a music educator and the impact we have all felt based on coping strategies with a virus which is still very prevalent in our lives.  However, let's remember that the 2022-2023 school year is the ONLY year our students will have in their grade level and make the most of it.  We will all face new unknowns, but the good news is we are here to work through them together.

No matter what grade level or school setting, one thing is sure:  the August rush is intense!   As educators, this time of year presents itself as an annual whirlwind of new schedules, fresh ideas, changing student rosters, and an endless list of things we would do “if we had the time”.   I hope you do not overlook this important benefit of membership in IBA as you are completing the beginning of the year checklists.

Through the opportunities provided by IBA, our students can participate in All-Region, All-District and 3 levels of All-State honor bands.  These events may only last a few days out of the busy year, but the impact of the experience lasts a lifetime.  Did you participate in an honor band when you were a student?  Think of the importance of those events as you make completing your membership application a priority.  These events, although designed for the needs of our students, also serve as incredible opportunities for free professional development.  I challenge you to volunteer your expertise in one capacity or another this year.  Lead a sectional, chaperone an All-State experience, or just come and listen to rehearsals and enjoy time with the other directors in your area.  Did you know you can earn PD credits for attending All-State weekend and observing rehearsals?  The experience you get out of IBA events is all about what you put into them.

Have you followed the new IBA Facebook page?  Look for reminders about upcoming deadlines as well as photos from IBA events.  Do you have new directors in your area?  Reach out to any first-year teachers as well as directors who are new to the area and encourage them to participate in IBA.  

I would like to welcome several new board members to the leadership team of IBA.  Thomas Wilson will serve as Area 3 HS Representative and Catherine Maloney as Area 2 JH/MS Representative.  Thanks to our outgoing board members for their service to our students and organization.

Thank you for your continued support.  The leadership of IBA will work to create opportunities for collegiality, education, and opportunities for our members and students.  If you are interested in being more active in IBA, please feel free to reach out to me or one of the board members for more information.