2026 MMEA Fall In-Service Conference: Full Schedule

8:00am EDT

Friday October 16, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am EDT

Kick off your morning with fresh coffee and donuts for sale! Every purchase supports the Governor Thomas Johnson HS Music program, so treat yourself and contribute to a great cause at the same time.Connect with music industry partners and music education institutions from across Maryland and beyond. Exhibitors, Sponsors, and Strategic Partners will be updated on the app/website...
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Friday October 16, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am EDT
Area B - Cafeteria

8:00am EDT

Registration

Friday October 16, 2026 8:00am - 1:00pm EDT

Area A - Entrance

Friday October 16, 2026 8:00am - 1:00pm EDT
Area A - Entrance

9:00am EDT

What Earns a Superior Rating? Insights from Maryland Concert Band Festival Data

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Room C - 1745

What do festival ratings really tell us about student performance and ensemble achievement? This session presents findings from a quantitative analysis of ratings from every Maryland high school concert band festival performance during a single year of statewide assessment. The study examines rating distributions, reliability, and differences across classification levels, while identifying common...
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Presenters

Todd J. Burroughs, Ph.D.

Supervisor of Instruction for Fine Arts, St. Mary's County Public Schools

Dr. Burroughs is the Supervisor of Instruction for Fine Arts in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, and former Director of Bands at Chopticon High School. Under his leadership, Chopticon’s band earned numerous recognitions, including a USBands Group II National Championship, seven Maryland... Read More →

Stephen W. Miles, Ph.D.

Adjunct Faculty, Washington County Public Schools and Southern New Hampshire University

Dr. Stephen Miles is a former member of the music education faculty at Towson University and is active in the Mid-Atlantic region as a clinician, conductor and adjudicator. Dr. Miles served as a music supervisor for 25 years and taught instrumental music in Virginia and Maryland for... Read More →

Dr. Mark Lortz

Director of Music/Bands, Stevenson University

Mark Lortz is Director of Music at Stevenson University and a prolific composer whose original music and arrangements have been performed internationally. In addition to composing, he adjudicates, lectures, and conducts honor bands, orchestras, and community ensembles throughout the... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Room C - 1745

Band, High School

Company Music Administration

9:00am EDT

Accessible & Beautiful: Reading Session to Encourage Connection and Growth

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Room B - 1719

Start the school year with repertoire that builds both musicianship and community. This reading session highlights accessible and engaging SAB and SATB selections designed to foster connection, confidence, and artistic growth in developing choirs. Participants will explore music that is pedagogically sound, culturally responsive, and immediately usable in middle school, high school, community, and...
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Presenters

Dr. Edryn J. Coleman

Choir & Piano Teacher, Oakland Mills High School

Dr. Edryn J. Coleman is a visionary choral conductor, educator, and author who inspires connection and excellence through music. He teaches choir and piano at Oakland Mills High School in Columbia, Maryland, and serves as adjunct faculty in Music Education at the University of Maryland... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Room B - 1719

Chorus, Middle School, High School, College, Community, Professional, Other

Company Emerging Ensemble, Emerging Practices, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), Collegiate/Pre-Service (Student), Chorus

9:00am EDT

Building Resilience through Stories and Songs

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Room E - 1732

This interactive session explores how music educators can foster resilience, sportsmanship, courage, risk-taking, and self-belief through the Orff Schulwerk process. Participants will engage in hands-on lessons for grades 2–5 that integrate children’s literature, singing, movement, speech, improvisation, and instrumental performance. Using books such as The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors,...
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Presenters

Shoshanah Drake

General/Vocal Music Teacher, Beall Elementary School

Shoshanah Drake is a general music educator with more than 30 years of teaching experience in Maryland public schools. She served as the lead writer for the Montgomery County Public Schools general music curriculum and has been a frequent presenter at local, state, and national conferences... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Room E - 1732

Classroom Music, Elementary School

9:00am EDT

How to use your band program to change school culture

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Room F - 1100

This session helps early career and veteran music educators strengthen their impact on school culture and community engagement. Participants will explore building a structured band program that fosters collaboration, positive relationships, and alignment with school goals.Attendees will learn to design performances that reflect their school community and support students in feeling connected,...
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Presenters

Glenn Eichelberger

Director of Band & Orchestra, Frederick Douglass High School

A native of Miami, Florida, Mr. Eichelberger began his collegiate studies at Florida A&M University, where he was a member of the renowned Marching 100, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Brass Ensemble, and Trombone Choir. During his time there, he was selected to the College... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Room F - 1100

Collegiate/Pre-Service (Student), High School, Middle School

Company Emerging Practices, Band, Collegiate/Pre-Service (Student)

9:00am EDT

More Than a Performance: Intergenerational Music Making in Schools and Communities

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Room I - 1131

Music education has the power to build meaningful connections beyond the classroom. This session explores how intergenerational and community-based music-making experiences can foster empathy, belonging, and stronger school-community relationships. We’ll explore real examples such as performances at independent and assisted living communities to collaborations with local schools and the creation...
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Presenters

Sidney South

Choral Director, Richard Montgomery High School

Sidney South is the choral director at Richard Montgomery High School, where she leads the choral program and serves as co-coordinator of the Performing Arts Regional Program. Choirs under her direction have been recognized for their high level of artistry and have been invited to... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Room I - 1131

Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), High School, Middle School

Company Classroom Music, Chorus, Band, Orchestra

9:00am EDT

Building the Support You Need: Practical Advocacy for the Busy Music Educator

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Room J - 1137

Music educators juggle rehearsals, performances, parent meetings, and yes, even cafeteria duty. Advocacy can feel like one more task, but it doesn’t have to be. Learn how to build relationship capital through everyday interactions with colleagues, administrators, families, and community partners. Discover practical, time-efficient strategies to increase visibility, grow support, and celebrate...
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Presenters

Doug Conrad

Frederick County Public Schools

Doug Conrad is the band director at Urbana Middle School in Frederick County, Maryland, where his leadership has helped double program enrollment and earn consistent superior ratings. He serves as Advocacy Chair for the Maryland Music Educators Association and is active as a guest... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Room J - 1137

Emerging Practices, Elementary School, Middle School, High School

Company Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA)

9:00am EDT

Pro Audio 101 and Introduction to Wireless

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Room H - 1123

You've been hired - great! Now your district has asked you to run sound for other concerts. What do you do? Perhaps you've been tasked with figuring out why the sound in the auditorium is never what you want it to be. This session will cover the basics of running a mixer, hooking everything up properly, and getting your wireless system to function the way it should!

Presenters

Fred Camin

Senior Account Manager, Sweetwater Sound

Fred Camin has been in the music business for over 20 years. He grew up in Metro New York, and was involved in school music programs from the age of 7. While in college studying Jazz Performance, he had the chance to perform all over Europe, including performing his own arrangements... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Room H - 1123

Music Technology, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, College, Community, Professional

Company Classroom Music, Band, Chorus, Orchestra, Emerging Ensemble, Emerging Practices, Higher Education (Faculty)

9:00am EDT

Teaching the Intangible: Pillars of Expressivity

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Room D - 1722

What does music “express” and how do instrumental musicians convey emotions without words? Music educators will discuss which performance techniques contribute to an expressive performance, such as phrasing, and will brainstorm pedagogical strategies to cultivate students’ ability to communicate musically. Suggestions will be made regarding the integration and clarification of expressive...
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Presenters

Dr. Marina McLerran

Assistant Professor of Music Education, Towson University

Marina McLerran is an Assistant Professor at Towson University. She has a Ph.D. (2024) and an M.M. (2021) in music education from the University of Miami, and a B.M. in music education (2014) from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas. She has been published in the Music Educators... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Room D - 1722

Orchestra, High School, Middle School, Elementary School

Company Band

9:00am EDT

Exhibits

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Area B - Cafeteria

Connect with music industry partners and music education institutions from across Maryland and beyond. Exhibitors, Sponsors, and Strategic Partners will be updated on the app/website regularly.

Exhibits will be open 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM (Closes when the final session begins)

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Area B - Cafeteria

9:00am EDT

2026 Maryland High School Tenor/Bass Demonstration Chorus - Rehearsal

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Room K - Media Center

Maryland Choral Educators Association (MCEA) will host the Maryland Tenor/Bass High School Demonstration Chorus as a featured session at the Maryland Music Educators Association (MMEA) Fall In-Service on Friday, October 16, 2026 in Frederick County. The chorus will include exemplary tenor and bass singers from across the state of Maryland in grades 9-12 (as of the 2026-2027 school...
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Presenters

Dr. W. Bryce Hayes

Associate Director of Choral Activities, James Madison University

Recently honored as Distinguished Teacher of the year by The College of Visual and Performing Arts, Dr. W. Bryce Hayes maintains an active career as a conductor, teacher, church musician, pianist, accompanist, and singer. As choral conductor, Bryce is currently Associate Professor... Read More →

James "Coach" Turk

Director of Vocal Music, DeMatha Catholic High School

James Turk, is the Director of Vocal Music at DeMatha Catholic High School, in Prince George’s County, Maryland. “Coach”, as he is affectionately called, has directed the High School Tenor/Bass Demonstration Chorus before and with great success. An educator, director, pianist... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room K - Media Center

Chorus, High School

10:00am EDT

“They Don’t Have to Sound Like Middle Schoolers”: Developing Musicianship and Ensemble Training in the Middle School Ensemble Using a Conceptualized Approach

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room G - 1117

There is an unspoken myth that middle school bands have to sound underdeveloped. As well as having quality middle school performing ensembles in minorities' communities tends to be undervalued. The purpose of this presentation is to highlight the need for strong musicianship and ensemble training at the middle school level. This presentation will discuss the methods, strategies, philosophy, and...
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Presenters

Michael A. Simmons Jr.

Assistant Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music, Bowie State University

Michael A. Simmons Jr. is an accomplished music educator, composer, and performer with over 17 years of teaching experience spanning elementary, middle, and high school levels. He currently serves as Assistant Professor of Music and Assistant Director of University Bands at Bowie... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room G - 1117

Band, Middle School

Company Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA)

10:00am EDT

Limitless Teaching with Limited Resources: Achieving Success in Rural and Urban Classrooms!

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room C - 1745

Limited resources should not limit achievement. Whether serving in rural communities with limited enrollment and challenging instrumentation or urban programs managing large class sizes and frequent turnover – or anywhere in between, music teachers are tasked with achieving excellence amid various constraints. With experience building and maintaining successful band programs in both rural and...
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Presenters

Jason Finnels

Director of Bands, Crawford High School/Fort Bend ISD/Texas

Jason Finnels is in his 17th year of teaching and serves as the Director of Bands at Crawford High School in Fort Bend ISD in Rosharon, Texas. Prior to opening Crawford, he taught junior high and middle school band for 13 years. His ensembles have earned consistent statewide and national... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room C - 1745

Band, Middle School, High School, Elementary School

Company Classroom Music, Chorus, Orchestra, Emerging Ensemble

10:00am EDT

U.S. Naval Academy Band, Electric Brigade

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room A - Auditorium

The United States Naval Academy Band was formed in November of 1852 by order of the Secretary of the Navy. The band’s primary mission is to provide musical support to the Superintendent, Commandant, and Brigade of Midshipmen. These dedicated professionals are known across the nation as “The Navy’s Oldest and Finest Band!” Our members have studied at prominent music schools and...
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Presenters

Commander Kelly Cartwright

Interim Director/ Officer In Charge, U.S. Naval Academy Band

Lt. Cmdr. Kelly Cartwright, from Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1998 as an oboe instrumentalist. As an enlisted member, her duty stations included Navy Band Southwest in San Diego, California; U.S. Pacific Fleet Band in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; and Commander... Read More →

Performing Ensembles

U.S. Naval Academy Band, Electric Brigade

The Electric Brigade (EB) is one of the Navy’s premier popular music groups. EB entertained audiences around the world from 1979 until 2017 and is excited to return to action in 2026. EB is part of the larger, 35-member Naval Academy Band. The USNA Band is the Navy’s “Oldest... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room A - Auditorium

Band, Professional

Company Chorus, Classroom Music

10:00am EDT

The Belonging Blueprint: Building a Chorus Students and Families Choose Again

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room F - 1100

Belonging does not happen by accident; it is built through intentional choices in culture, communication, artistry, and leadership. This session will help choral directors examine the full family experience, from rehearsal arrival and concert logistics to audience engagement, volunteer culture, and traditions. Participants will leave with practical strategies for creating a chorus community where...
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Presenters

Karis Nichols

Artistic Director, The Frederick Children's Chorus

Karis Nichols serves as Artistic Director of the Frederick Children’s Chorus, bringing a deep love of music and a heart for students to every ensemble. She has taught for nine years in public and private schools in Kansas and Maryland, with K-12 music experience in choir, band... Read More →

Jacqueline Grimm

Vocal Music Director, Oakdale High School, Frederick County Public Schools

Jacqueline Grimm is in her 16th year of teaching in Frederick County Public Schools, and her 4th year teaching High School Music. Ms Grimm teachers Guitar & Piano classes, as well Mixed Chorus, Concert Choir and Camerata, a small all female audition only group. Ms. Grimm built the... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room F - 1100

Chorus, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Community

10:00am EDT

Treble Treasures: Repertoire for Intermediate & Advanced Treble Choirs

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room B - 1719

Explore exceptional repertoire for intermediate and advanced treble choirs. Drawing from a variety of styles and traditions, this session features carefully selected works that will challenge and inspire your singers. Discover new gems for your next concert program.

Presenters

Rachel Morgan

Artistic Director, Children's Chorus of Maryland

Rachel Morgan is the Artistic Director of the Children’s Chorus of Maryland & School of Music and a Choral Director for the Children’s Chorus of Carroll County. She has conducted music for other organizations, including York County Honors Choirs, the National Christian Choir... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room B - 1719

Chorus, Middle School, High School, Community

10:00am EDT

Early Childhood Music: Skills, Management, and Curriculum

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room E - 1732

The Maryland Blueprint for Education is expanding access to early childhood education, bringing more PK3 and PK4 students into elementary music programs. This session explores developmentally appropriate practices for teaching our youngest learners, focusing on child development, foundational music skills, and meaningful engagement. Participants will examine key curricular goals and practical...
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Presenters

Robin Giebelhausen

Assistant Professor of Music Education, University of Maryland, College Park

Robin Giebelhausen is an assistant professor of music education at the University of Maryland, specializing in general music, and the coordinator of the Hatchling Community Music Program. She is faculty for the Gordon Institute for Music Learning, completed Orff-Schulwerk levels training... Read More →

Lauren Vujosevic

Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Education, Towson University

Lauren Vujosevic (she/her) is Assistant Professor of Teaching in Music Education at Towson University, where she teaches courses across the music education curriculum. Her expertise is in vocal/general elementary music. She earned her B.M.E. from Rutgers University and taught PK-8... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room E - 1732

Classroom Music, Elementary School

Company Emerging Practices

10:00am EDT

Culture & Content

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room J - 1137

Viral Content Creators Makynzie Barton and Kevin A. Lewis Sr. share background information of their use of social media and how it has positively impacted their professional settings. With a blend of culturally responsive teaching practices and relatable classroom struggles, attendees will get to engage with the creators, find quick useful tips for content and potentially take part in a viral...
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Presenters

Kevin A. Lewis Sr.

Choral Director/MCEA President-Elect, Laurel High School

Kevin A. Lewis Sr. is a two-time graduate of Morgan State University with degrees in Vocal Performance and Teaching. He is the Choral Director at Laurel High School in Prince George's County and the President-Elect of the Maryland Choral Educators Association. He serves as Minister... Read More →

Makynzie Barton

Choral/Theatre Director, Elkton High School

Makynzie Barton is the Choir and Theatre Director at Elkton High School in Elkton, MD, having studied at University of Delaware (roll hens!) as well as Berklee College of Music. Online, she creates content as a music educator, sharing the magic and madness of the classroom, arranging... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room J - 1137

Emerging Practices, College; High School, Community, Elementary School, Middle School

Company Chorus, Band, Orchestra, Emerging Ensemble

10:00am EDT

Generated By AI: Using AI As An Assistant, Not A Crutch

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room H - 1123

You want AI to organize your library, help bring your ideas to life, assist you in planning, and help facilitate how best to teach particular skillsets. You don't want it to create your music for you, think for you or mentor you. In this session, we will visit a few AI tools and how to use them to augment what we already do without handing over our responsibility to think. AI can be a powerful...
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Presenters

Kerry J. Gilliard

Director of Instrumental Music, DuVal High School

Kerry J. Gilliard is the Music Department Chairperson at DuVal High School in Lanham, Maryland where he directs the multiple band and string ensembles. He is a past clinician at several MMEA Conferences and In-Services, an active composer and adjudicator. He holds a Masters in Conducting... Read More →

A. Danielle Gilliard

Director of Band and Orchestra, Samuel Ogle Middle School

A. Danielle Gilliard is veteran Band and Orchestra instructor at Samuel Ogle Middle School in Bowie, Maryland where she teaches grades 6-8. She conducts professional development and serves as a music curriculum writer for the Prince Georges’ County Public School System. She holds... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room H - 1123

Music Technology, High School, College, Middle School, Professional, Elementary School

Company Emerging Practices, Band, Chorus, Orchestra, Classroom Music, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), Music Technology

10:00am EDT

Improving the Ensemble Habits of Your String Players

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Room D - 1722

Ensemble playing gives students a unique and powerful people-connecting experience. Learn rehearsal techniques to build students’ habits and skills so they can better discern and adjust as they interact with the ensemble, the music, and the conductor. By fostering these habits among students, the ensemble's camaraderie and performance will improve, thus greatly enhancing and enriching the...
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Presenters

Joseph Brennan

Adjunct Faculty, Rowan University

Joseph Brennan received his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Music Education from Temple University studying violin and trumpet. In 2022, Joe retired after 37 years of teaching, primarily as the director of orchestras in Haverford Township School District, near Philadelphia. Joe is... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Room D - 1722

Orchestra, Elementary School, Middle School, High School

11:00am EDT

Keynote

Friday October 16, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Room A - Auditorium

Friday October 16, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Room A - Auditorium

12:00pm EDT

Lunch and Exhibits

Friday October 16, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT

Area B - Cafeteria

Lunch is included for all attendees. Join us for a catered lunch and tour our great community of exhibitors!

Connect with music industry partners and music education institutions from across Maryland and beyond. Exhibitors, Sponsors, and Strategic Partners will be updated on the app/website regularly.

Exhibits will be open 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM (Closes when the final session begins)

Friday October 16, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Area B - Cafeteria

1:30pm EDT

Chamber Music in the Large Ensemble Classroom

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room C - 1745

Need to challenge your top students? Have a group with unusual/limited instrumentation? Want to help build fundamental skills with struggling students? Want students to have better part independence? The answer to these questions and more is: Chamber music! During this session we will discuss ideas for how to include chamber music in the large ensemble classroom using materials and methods new and...
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Presenters

Jessica Banks

Flute instructor, Frederick Community College

Originally, from Youngstown, Ohio, Dr. Jessica Banks currently serves as flute instructor and flute choir director at Frederick Community College and Mount St. Mary’s University. Prior to moving to Maryland, she served as Assistant Professor of Flute and Music Education at Mississippi... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room C - 1745

Band, Middle School, High School

Company Orchestra, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA)

1:30pm EDT

"Where Do We Start?!?" Capturing Joy in the Vocal Warm-Up Week One!

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room B - 1719

Are you a new choral director or do you have beginner-choral students in need of vocal exercises that are simple yet effective, accessible yet expansive, and usable for elementary, middle and high school choruses? Wherever you may fall, a common question you may have is “Where Do We Start?!?” In this session, we answer that question with a series of warm-ups that address vocal onset, head...
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Presenters

Gabriel Gray

Music Teacher-Vocal, William A. Diggs Elementary School

Gabriel Gray is a General Music Teacher and Choral Director at William A. Diggs Elementary School in Charles County, Maryland. Throughout Maryland, Mr. Gray is an active guest conductor, clinician and adjudicator. He serves MMEA as current Immediate Past President of the general music... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room B - 1719

Chorus, Elementary School, Middle School, High School; Community

Company Classroom Music, Collegiate/Pre-Service (Student)

1:30pm EDT

2026 Maryland High School Tenor/Bass Demonstration Chorus - Rehearsal

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room A - Auditorium

Presenters

Dr. W. Bryce Hayes

Associate Director of Choral Activities, James Madison University

James "Coach" Turk

Director of Vocal Music, DeMatha Catholic High School

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room A - Auditorium

Chorus, High School

1:30pm EDT

Incorporating ACCESS Testing in the Music Classroom

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room G - 1117

As a music teacher, you may teach all the students in your school, including students who do not primarily speak English. Each year, this group of students do a test called the ACCESS test. While this test provides great insight on how these students understand the English language, how can we understand the test results for ourselves and apply it to our classes? Please join me in this session as...
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Presenters

Jessica Windsor

General Music & Band Teacher, Pemberton Elementary School

Based on the Eastern Shore, Jess Windsor is a ninth year music educator, passionate about equitable opportunities in music education for both students and staff across the State. She currently serves as President of MGMTA and is dedicated to fostering collaboration, professional growth... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room G - 1117

Classroom Music, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Community

Company Band;, Chorus, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA)

1:30pm EDT

The Pulse of Belonging: Building Connection Through Participatory Music

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room E - 1732

Music classrooms and ensembles can become powerful spaces for connection, belonging, and community when participation is intentionally designed. This interactive session explores how participatory music structures such as layered rhythm, echoing, collaborative creation, and low-risk entry points can help foster engagement, shared leadership, and meaningful connection among students and school...
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Presenters

Mark Shelleman

General Music Teacher, Central Dauphin East Elementary, PA: Representing Elizabethtown College

Mark Shelleman is an elementary general music and chorus teacher in the Central Dauphin School District and a recent graduate of the Master of Music Education program at Elizabethtown College. With over three decades of experience teaching in various configurations of PreK–12 vocal... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room E - 1732

Classroom Music, Elementary School, Middle School, Community

1:30pm EDT

Music Supervisor Roundtable with Collegiate Attendees

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room K - Media Center

This session is designed for college attendees to meet music supervisors from around Maryland and interact with the supervisors and hear about effective interview and application strategies. Supervisors will share information with attendees about navigating the application process and effectively interviewing for a teaching position. Supervisors will talk with attendees about common interview...
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Presenters

Dr. Kate Evans

Professor of Music Education, Towson University

Kate Evans, Professor of Music Education at Towson University, is a specialist in choral and general music education. Dr. Evans earned a Ph.D. in music education at the University of Miami. She received Master of Music degrees in music education and choral conducting, as well as the... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room K - Media Center

Collegiate/Pre-Service (Student), College

Company Music Administration

1:30pm EDT

Tools & Tactics for Arts Education Advocacy

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room I - 1131

Who decides who has access to music education in the state of Maryland? There are a lot of answers to this question, ranging from your principal to the president of the State Board of Education. Join AEMS to explore the landscape of who has power and influence in Maryland's education ecosystem, including YOU! Learn more about current state policies and priorities and dive into our resources to...
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Presenters

Rachel McGrain

Executive Director, Arts Education in Maryland Schools (AEMS)

Rachel's commitment to educational equity and social justice has inspired her career in education and nonprofit leadership. Her work at AEMS includes co-chairing Maryland's Fine Arts Education Advisory Panel to advise the State Superintendent and collaborating with statewide arts... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room I - 1131

Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), Middle School, Elementary School, High School

Company Music Administration

1:30pm EDT

More Music - Less Mayhem

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room F - 1100

We all have felt the lasting effects of the COVID-19 lockdown, particularly the increase in disruptive and negative student behaviors in classrooms. Since the pandemic, music educators have reported both increased frequency and severity of disruptive behaviors while also feeling underprepared to address them effectively. As schools increasingly adopt Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports...
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Presenters

Hannah Flach

Choir Director, North Hagerstown High School

Hannah Flach-Goff is a high school choir and general music teacher passionate about developing students' musicianship, creativity, and confidence. With a Bachelor's degree in Music Education and a Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, Hannah is committed to helping educators... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room F - 1100

Emerging Practices, Middle School, High School

Company Classroom Music, Band, Chorus, Orchestra

1:30pm EDT

The AP Music Theory Exam Detective: The Search For Clues to Enable Student Success In The Free Response Questions

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room J - 1137

This session will present an overview of the structure of the seven free response questions in the AP Music Theory Exam (Melodic Dictation, Harmonic Dictation, Part Writing and Soprano-Bass Counterpoint). Attendees will learn which concepts must be taught and strategies on applying these concepts to the individual questions on the exam. Data concerning common construction elements on these...
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Presenters

Mr. Barry Chesky

Performing Arts Faculty, Dulaney High School

This session will present newly published music for string orchestra geared towards middle and high school ensembles (grades 2 through 4). Each piece performed will include an annotated list of relevant musical and technical challenges in addition to other pertinent information that... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room J - 1137

Emerging Practices, High School, College

Company Classroom Music, Band, Chorus, Orchestra

1:30pm EDT

AI Tools for Personal Health and Fitness: Strategies for Music Educators

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room H - 1123

Music teachers face mounting pressures including packed rehearsal schedules, performance demands, and the emotional demands of working with young musicians. This interactive session explores how AI tools, including Large Language Models (LLM’s) like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, etc. can serve as accessible wellness partners to support your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.Participants will...
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Presenters

Terry B. Ewell

Professor, Towson University

Terry B. Ewell (he/his), Professor at Towson University, is a specialist in bassoon and digital and online music education. Dr. Ewell is recognized as a leading pedagogue for the bassoon throughout the world. His 750+ “Bassoon Digital Professor” videos have well over one and a... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room H - 1123

Music Technology, Professional, Community, College

Company Emerging Practices

1:30pm EDT

Cello Pedagogy and Technique

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Room D - 1722

Join us for a deep-dive on all things cello! This session will focus on posture, left and right hand technique, bow control, shifting, and more. Whether you've taught strings for years or are new to the orchestra world, there's something for everyone! Bring a cello to participate in play-along portions of this presentation.

Presenters

Laura Keim, MMME

Director of Orchestras, Eleanor Roosevelt High School

Laura Keim is a classically trained cellist and chamber musician who has taught at both the middle and high school levels in Prince George's County Public Schools. She holds a B.S. in Music Education and B.A. Music Performance from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, and a Master's... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Room D - 1722

Orchestra, High School, Middle School, Elementary School

1:30pm EDT

Exhibits

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT

Area B - Cafeteria

Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Area B - Cafeteria

2:30pm EDT

From First Note to First Concert: Effective Strategies for Beginning Band

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room G - 1117

This session provides practical strategies for beginning band instruction, focusing on building fundamentals, engaging students, and establishing consistency. Directors will explore rehearsal techniques, classroom management, and solutions to common beginner challenges. Attendees will leave with actionable tips, resources, and methods to support long-term success in their music programs. Hal...
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Presenters

Rachel Allen

Band Director, Charles Town Middle School

Mrs. Rachel Allen is a WV band director with degrees from Shepherd University (BM 2005, MM 2010). Her ensembles have earned numerous superior ratings, and her jazz band was WV Honor Band (2026). She serves in various music ed leadership roles in WV and is a sought-after clinician... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room G - 1117

Band, Elementary School, Middle School

2:30pm EDT

2026 Maryland High School Tenor/Bass Demonstration Chorus - Performance

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room A - Auditorium

Presenters

Dr. W. Bryce Hayes

Associate Director of Choral Activities, James Madison University

James "Coach" Turk

Director of Vocal Music, DeMatha Catholic High School

Performing Ensembles

Maryland High School Tenor/Bass Demonstration Chorus

MCEA

The Maryland Choral Educators Association (MCEA) is delighted to host the Maryland High School Tenor/Bass Demonstration Chorus. This is a valuable professional development opportunity for our educators and an outstanding experience for tenor and bass voices. Click here for the ... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room A - Auditorium

Chorus, High School

2:30pm EDT

Keep the Beat Going: Eliminating Transitions to Maximize Music Making

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room E - 1732

In this energizing, classroom-ready session, Brittany Brandt shares practical strategies for transforming elementary music lessons by removing the biggest thief of instructional time—transitions. Discover how simple musical structures, purposeful rotations, and continuous accompaniment can turn every moment into active music-making, even in short class periods. Say goodbye to “who’s out?”...
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Presenters

Brittany Brandt

Lower School Music Teacher, Browne Academy

Brittany Brandt (she/her) is the Lower School Music Teacher at Browne Academy in Alexandria, Virginia, where she teaches students from preschool through fourth grade and leads the middle school drama program. A passionate advocate for music for all, Brittany believes that joyful... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room E - 1732

Classroom Music, Elementary School

2:30pm EDT

One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Tips for Choosing a Graduate Degree and Program that Fits Your Needs

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room F - 1100

So, you’ve decided to go to grad school… Now what? Gathering information from a variety of sources can help make you a stronger candidate. Three experienced music educators/performers with diverse musical backgrounds will collaborate to provide a comparison of M.M., M.S., D.M.A., and Ph.D. degrees in music education, conducting, and performance; practical advice on how to choose the degree...
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Presenters

Dr. Marina McLerran

Assistant Professor of Music Education, Towson University

Dr. Kate Evans

Professor of Music Education, Towson University

Dr. Jessica Harika

Assistant Professor of Music, Towson University

Jessica Harika, Assistant Professor of Music at Towson University, is a Lebanese-American mezzo-soprano, stage director, and producer. As a fierce advocate for opera's growth and accessibility, she serves as artistic and co-executive director of River City Opera, which she co-founded... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room F - 1100

Collegiate/Pre-Service (Student), College, All

2:30pm EDT

From Accomodations to Empowerment: Practical Strategies for True Classroom Inclusion of Disabled Students

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room I - 1131

No matter where or what you teach, you teach disabled students. We will define disability, learn how and why to presume compitence, and learn how to make the environment, materials, instruction, and communication truly accessible and inclusive for all students. You will actively use communition tools during the instruction, experience the effect of instuctional modifications, and get to try out...
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Presenters

Erika Safford

Music Teacher, Carroll Springs School

As a music educator, Erika Safford has taught all high and middle school choir, as well as k-5 general music. In her current position, she teaches vocal, instrumental, and general music at a separate day school in Carroll County, serving students aged 3-21 with diverse, but significant... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room I - 1131

Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), Elementary School, Middle School, High School, College, Community, Professional

Company Classroom Music, Band, Chorus; Orchestra, Higher Education (Faculty)

2:30pm EDT

And These Instruments, Too!

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room C - 1745

Standard and non-standard accessory percussion instruments will serve as the focus of this interactive session, featuring programming, instruction, and active student participation through a variety of solo, chamber, and concert works. Participants will explore rehearsal and practice strategies designed to engage student musicians of all skill levels, building confidence and performance...
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Presenters

Jonathan Bisesi

Director, University of Maryland Percussion Studio, University of Maryland

Jonathan Bisesi is currently Assistant Clinical Professor, Percussion and the Director of the Percussion Studio at the University of Maryland where he teaches private lessons, directs the UMD Percussion Ensemble, teaches courses in Percussion History and Literature, Percussion Pedagogy... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room C - 1745

Emerging Practices, Middle School, Elementary School, High School, College, Community, Professional

Company Band, Orchestra, Collegiate/Pre-Service (Student), Higher Education (Faculty)

2:30pm EDT

Microlearning Music: Chunking Learning vs. Time

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room J - 1137

Rehearsals often struggle to balance depth of learning with realities of limited time. This session explores microlearning as a learning design strategy that targets retention, transfer, and ensemble growth. Explore the cognitive science behind attention, knowledge transfer, and context switching, while evaluating the definition of a complete learning experience. Participants apply concepts...
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Presenters

Evan Combs

Composer & Educator, PIXEL

Evan designs learning experiences that blend creativity, technology, and educational science, helping learners of all ages grow in meaningful, measurable ways. His work spans K-12, higher education, workforce, and organizational development, where he leads teams in building authentic... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room J - 1137

Emerging Practices, High School, Middle School, Elementary School, College

Company Classroom Music, Band, Chorus, Orchestra, Higher Education (Faculty), Music Administration

2:30pm EDT

Mirror, Mirror: Exploring the why and how of reflective practices for music teachers.

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room B - 1719

Drawing on the work of Stronge, Danielson and van Manen, and predicated on Dewey’s statement that “learning improves to the degree that it arises out of the process of reflection,” this session provides an overview of the philosophical foundations of reflective practice and facilitates an exploration of a wide variety of reflective practice tools that can be implemented by music teachers at...
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Presenters

Stephen W. Miles, Ph.D.

Adjunct Faculty, Washington County Public Schools and Southern New Hampshire University

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room B - 1719

Music Administration, High School, Middle School, College

Company Band, Chorus, Orchestra, Collegiate/Pre-Service (Student)

2:30pm EDT

Sound Intelligence: Practical AI Tools for the Music Classroom

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room H - 1123

AI is already in your students' world — is it in your teaching toolkit? This hands-on session demystifies artificial intelligence for music educators at every level. Explore how AI agents like Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini can streamline lesson planning, generate differentiated materials, and provide personalized student feedback. Discover music-specific applications supporting composition, ear...
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Presenters

DR. PETER J. PERRY

Instrumental Music Director, Richard Montgomery HS/Montgomery County Public Schools

Peter Perry has traveled the world teaching and performing music. He is the Instrumental Music Director at Richard Montgomery HS in Rockville, MD, and has served on the faculty of the Catholic University of America in Music Education. He holds a Doctorate in Music Education from Shenandoah... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room H - 1123

Music Technology, All

Company Emerging Practices

2:30pm EDT

Innovative Uses of Technology in Orchestra Rehearsals

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT

Room D - 1722

Using technology in your orchestra rehearsals will help improve your students’ playing skills and make your rehearsals more effective, efficient, and engaging. The use of technology is ongoing in many music classes and rehearsals, and teachers must keep pace. This session is a technology “smorgasbord”;a sampler of many technology “morsels”. The technology sampler will contain morsels in...
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Presenters

Joseph Brennan

Adjunct Faculty, Rowan University

Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room D - 1722

Orchestra, Elementary School, Middle School, High School

Company Music Technology

3:30pm EDT

Conference Social @ Frederick Social

Friday October 16, 2026 3:30pm - 5:30pm EDT

Social - Frederick Social

Wrap up the day with an unforgettable afternoon at Frederick Social, less than 10 minutes from TJ High School in Downtown Frederick! Enjoy great company and a vibrant atmosphere at 5 Citizens Way, Frederick, MD. Some lite fare and drinks will be included, and additional will be available for purchase.
Frederick Social
50 Citizens Way, Frederick, MD 21701 (Map)

Friday October 16, 2026 3:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Social - Frederick Social 50 Citizens Way, Frederick, MD 21701

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