2026 Maine Music Educators Association Conference: Full Schedule

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10:00am EDT

Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

In this session we will explore basic techniques for comping on the guitar that apply to big band or combo situations. We will discuss how to carve out a contained space for the guitar through the use of good tone, rootless voicings, rhythmic phrases and voice-leading, including tips on amp placement, equipment and exercises and resources for beginner and intermediate guitarists.

Speakers

Ryan Blotnick

Ryan Blotnick (b. April 30, 1983) is an American guitarist and composer. He has performed with many leading voices in jazz and recorded five albums of his own music. He teaches jazz and improvisation at the College of the Atlantic, leads his own quartet and performs with the Soulbenders... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100

Jazz

11:00am EDT

Jazz solo transcription as an approachable model for improvisational development and assessment.

Thursday May 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Since the birth of jazz, solo transcription has been a tried-and-true methodology for developing improvisers. It instills stylistic, rhythmic, melodic, and historical concepts while strengthening the ear-to-instrument connection. Many music educators struggle to find the time to incorporate improvisational pedagogy into rehearsal and general music settings; transcription may be an underutilized tool in this area. This session will explore practical and progressive approaches to introducing transcription into any jazz related course or ensemble.

Speakers

Chris Gagne

Associate Professor of Music, Springfield College

Active as a composer/arranger and trombonist, Chris maintains a busy performance schedule throughout the Northeast, specializing primarily in jazz and contemporary improvised music. Chris can currently be seen performing with Mehmet Sanlikol and “Whatsnext?,” the Ayn Inserto Jazz... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100

Jazz

2:00pm EDT

Vocal Jazz Ensemble Pedagogy for Classical or Instrumental Teachers

Thursday May 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:55pm EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Learn some essential techniques for developing a successful vocal jazz ensemble and prepping students for jazz-related auditions and performances. Whether it's sound setup, mic technique, stylistic elements, or general teaching methods, we got you covered!

Speakers

Amanda Roswick

DownBeat Award-Winning jazz vocalist Amanda Roswick is currently in her fifth year at the University of Southern Maine as the Artist Faculty in Jazz Voice, leading their two vocal jazz ensembles and teaching a large studio of jazz, classical, and contemporary singers. Prior to teaching... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:55pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

Jazz Choral

4:00pm EDT

Jazz Meeting

Thursday May 14, 2026 4:00pm - 4:55pm EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

This meeting will provide members with the opportunity to receive updates on the upcoming changes to jazz activities for the 2026-27 school year.

Speakers

Ben Cox

Thursday May 14, 2026 4:00pm - 4:55pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100

Jazz

2026 Maine Music Educators Association Conference

10:00am EDT

Ryan Blotnick

11:00am EDT

Chris Gagne

2:00pm EDT

Amanda Roswick

4:00pm EDT

Ben Cox

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