Summer of Learning

Summer is fast approaching, and before band camps and rehearsals begin, take time to attend a professional development workshop. Not only can you refine or build new skills, but you can network with other music educators.

No matter if you want to learn more about teaching guitar, mariachi, modern band or if you want to become a better music director, there’s a seminar out there for you. Hearing about new ideas, pedagogies, strategies and more will motivate you to tackle the upcoming year of teaching music with renewed vigor. A win-win situation!

Conference Tips

First, here are some tips to get the most out of a conference.

• Go in with a game plan.
• Ask for funding from your school or district to cover the cost of the conference.
• Don’t be shy. Take the opportunity to talk to seasoned and well-known music educators and performers.
• Keep organized notes on new ideas and strategies you want to try.
• If there are vendors at the conference, see if there are any products or services that could help your program.

Summer Conferences to Check Out

A few notable conferences to consider:

• The Bands of America Summer Camp Director Academy runs from June 23-28 at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, and focuses on Music for All’s core teaching principles: reflection, artistry, organization and communication. At the Director Academy, you can connect with the best in the business and learn about trending topics like offering music technology courses. Register today! (Read about one educator’s experience at the Bands of America Summer Camp over the years.)
• Middle school and high school band directors can learn effective rehearsal techniques, enhance ensemble sonority and intonation, and refine communication through conducting at the VanderCook College of Music Band Director Summer Workshop from July 11-14 in Chicago.
• To help you improve your marching band, Smith Walbridge offers the Directors Marching Band Clinic from July 8-11 at Eastern Illinois University. In addition to tackling colorguard concerns, drill design techniques and modern body movement, directors will also learn how to run effective and efficient rehearsals, cultivate great leaders and encourage positive attitudes.

• Interested in starting a music technology program?
  • Sign up for the Electronic Music Educator Workshop offered through Elements. Four virtual sessions are offered this summer — from June 8-21, July 6-19, July 20-August 2 and August 3-16 — taught by 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator, Bob Habersat.
  • MusicWill offers a Modern Band Summit at Colorado State University from July 9-11. Join other educators to learn about culturally responsive music education and transform your classroom and students with curriculum based around modern music.

• The 2025 National Mariachi Education Workshops will be held at The Orleans Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas from June 23-27. Attendees can choose between a beginner or intermediate track with classes on the vihuela/guitar, guitarron, harp, violin, trumpet and voice. Fun, networking and music-making are guaranteed!
• If you’re looking to start or enhance your guitar or ukulele program, sign up for a Teaching Guitar Workshop. You can choose from beginner or advanced courses at various one-day events around the country from June through August.
• A free online guitar fundamentals course is offered year-round at ShedtheMusic.