2026 Maine Music Educators Association Conference: Full Schedule

Tim Lautzenheiser is a trusted friend to anyone interested in working with young people in the pursuit of excellence. His own career involves ten years as a band director at Northern Michigan University, the University of Missouri, and New Mexico State University. In 1981 he created... Read More →

Performers

195th Army Nat Guard Band

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:45am - 10:20am EDT
Collins Center for the Arts

Conference Event

10:00am EDT

How Do We Advocate?

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

Williams Hall Rm 110 @ 18 W Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Ideas on how to advocate for music within the building, and at district, state, and national levels. This presentation will start with information and then move into discussion around your questions and challenges.

Speakers

Heidi Corliss

Heidi Corliss received a BME in Music Education and an MM in Choral Conducting at the University of Maine. She holds a Certificate of Fine Arts Administration from Fitchburg University and retired as a National Board Certified Teacher after 40 years in Maine public schools. In 2001... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 110

All Areas

10:00am EDT

You're Invited!: Creating accessibility for all students and audiences

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

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

The root of equity is access. Traditionally, we view “access” as it would be outlined by legal definitions such as the ADA. What does it look like when we go beyond the basics and consider accessibility as an invitation to participate? This session explores real scenarios that you won’t find in music education texts, and offers solutions that foster a truly invitational atmosphere in your...
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Speakers

Bridget Frazier

Bridget Frazier (she/they) is a junior music education student at the University of Maine with a vocal concentration. She also works as a BHP and Educational Technician at the Step Forward Center and Preschool in Milford, ME. As a person with disabilities herself, Frazier is passionate... Read More →

Julia Edwards

Poland Regional High School

Julia Edwards (she/her) is the choral music teacher at Poland Regional HS and Whittier MS in Poland, ME, serves as the current president of Maine ACDA, and is the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year. She received her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

All Areas DEIA

10:00am EDT

Transform Your Calendar and Scheduling Creation Process (Through AI)

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

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Tired of spending hours creating Google Calendar events? Let AI do the heavy lifting! In this session, you'll discover how to slash your calendar setup time in half with a simple, AI-powered Google Sheets template. Imagine creating hundreds of calendar events and invites in just a few quick, easy steps. Whether you are creating a music events calendar, a lessons calendar, or a school visit...
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Speakers

Matthew Mayo

Matthew Mayo is in his third year as Instrumental Music Director at Mount Desert Island High School in Bar Harbor, Maine, where he leads Symphonic Band, Pep Band, Chamber Ensembles, and assists with Jazz Bands. He is passionate about developing innovative curricula that expand student... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

All Areas Technology

10:00am EDT

Perspectives in Programming

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

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Programming a concert is more than just picking the music. In this session we will look at some guidelines, practices and philosophies for putting together a program which meets your educational goals and is musically satisfying and fun for both the students and the audience.

Speakers

Larry Detwiler

Retired music educator

Larry has had over 40 years experience as a music educator. He spent most of his career overseas teaching in Italy, Indonesia and Brazil. He has run workshops in Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan and the United States. Now retired, he spends his time subbing at the Lincoln Academy in Newcastle... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107

Band Choral Orchestra

10:00am EDT

Songwriting In The Music Classroom: Generating Repertoire and Voice Builders for the classroom

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

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Be ready to write, create and sing! Songwriting is a creative process and a different way for our students to connect with one another. From first draft to concert ready, We will cover what "Day 1" looks like when starting this process in addition to tackling the challenges you might come across when working with your group. Even if you decide not to create a song for performance, Songwriting...
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Speakers

Destiny Cooper

Boston Childrens Chorus

Destiny Cooper is an active performer, conductor and educator whose goal is to find ways to build community through music, education and performance. Graduating from Westminster Choir College, Destiny has been a Middle School Choral Director and Conductor for Boston Childrens Chorus... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

10:00am EDT

Folk Dancing from Kindergarten and Beyond!

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

Memorial Union Bangor Room @ China Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Let's start from the beginning! Learn how to modify movement, make connections to your current curriculum, and get comfortable teaching folk dance in general. We will adapt two basic dances and learn how to progress them for any age.

Speakers

Dustin Levesque

K-4 Music Teacher, South Portland School Department

Dustin (he/him) currently teaches K-4 Music in South Portland, ME. He has completed Orff-Schulwerk Level II training and is a certified Group Fitness Instructor through the Athletics and Fitness Association of America. Dustin has assisted in presenting two sessions at the annual Zumba... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
Memorial Union Bangor Room

Gen Music, K-5

10:00am EDT

Jazz Guitar Comping

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

Help! I'm afraid of sound systems.

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

CCA - Bodwell Lounge on 3rd floor @ 2 Flagstaff Road Orono, ME 04473

Do you ever feel intimidated by sound systems? Every have trouble with feedback or getting microphones to sound great? Ever end up with a terrible hum in your PA system? This session will cover the basics of using a sound system- microphones, mixers, and speakers. You will learn how to correctly set up a system in order to avoid feedback. You will learn how to EQ a microphone to get the best audio...
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Speakers

Andy Forster

Mr. Forster recently retired from the Messalonskee School District where he was a band director for thirty-four years. He received his B.M. in Music Education from the University of New Hampshire and his M.M. in Instrumental Conducting from the University of Massachusetts. His conducting... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
CCA - Bodwell Lounge on 3rd floor 2 Flagstaff Road Orono, ME 04473

All Areas

11:00am EDT

The Power of HOPE in Music: Supporting Students through the Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences Framework

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

Williams Hall Rm 110 @ 18 W Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Music educators know that music programs can create life-changing positive experiences for students where they gain skills that can last through adulthood. But, we don't always know how to share about the power of music in terms that families, administrators, and other decision makers understand. In this session, you will learn about the four building blocks of HOPE: Relationships, Environments,...
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Speakers

Cassie Cooper-Ricci

Associate Director, OUT Maine

Cassie Cooper (they/them) is Associate Director of OUT Maine. They come from the education profession where they taught elementary music for seven years. They have a Masters in Music Education from Florida State University and have been an advocate for teacher and student wellness... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 110

All Areas

11:00am EDT

Curriculum by Design: An Approach to Teaching in the Ensemble Setting

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

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

In our ensemble classrooms, we aren’t given a curriculum book that tells us what to teach. This session will provide practical strategies for building and expanding your own curriculum, from scaffolding lessons to selecting musical concepts and repertoire. You’ll explore an approach that validates your teaching while encouraging students to actively engage with the concepts you present. Fully...
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Speakers

Matthew Mayo

Thursday May 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

Band Choral Orchestra

11:00am EDT

Voices of Diversity: A Culturally Responsive and Inclusive Choral Repertoire Database with Pre-Teaching Tools

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

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

In this session the participants will learn about the development of the Choral Access Database (Choral Access), Pre-teaching Tools, and techniques for implementing this resource in their teaching. They will also learn about how they can contribute to the database and help grow this community resource. There will be a reading session component of the session that will include the application of...
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Speakers

David Saunders

Director of Choirs, Mountain View Middle School, SAU 19, Goffstown, NH

David Saunders is currently the Director of Choirs at Mountain View Middle School in Goffstown, NH. During his 17 years of teaching, he has taught at all grade levels in both Illinois and New Hampshire. He is a graduate of Plymouth State University, Summa Cum Laude and a First Steps... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

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...
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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

12:00pm EDT

ACDA Luncheon

Thursday May 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:15pm EDT

Buchanan Alumni House @ 160 College Ave, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Performers

Mt. Ararat MS 8th Grade Treble Choir

Thursday May 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:15pm EDT
Buchanan Alumni House

Luncheon

1:15pm EDT

Keynote: THERE’S MORE TO IT THAN CAN BE SEEN!

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 1:55pm EDT

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

Music educators create opportunities for their students to achieve at a higher level in every aspect of life’s journey. Let’s pull back the curtain and see what takes place before the holiday concert or the homecoming parade. How do you define success on the annual spring trip or at the festival showcase performance? As we all know, these are only "the tip of the iceberg.” The countless...
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Speakers

Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser

Conn Selmer, Inc., Hal Leonard, Inc.

Sponsors

Conn Selmer Inc.

Hal Leonard Inc.

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 1:55pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100

Conference Event

2:00pm EDT

Character Attributes of a Master Music Educator

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

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

Explore the key attributes of a first-class music educator, asking whether content or context is more important, if cognitive or affective is primary in communication, and whether knowledge or wisdom is the key ingredient. Lautzenheiser will spotlight qualities certain to stimulate the joy of inspired mentorship. Be part of a clinic that will remind you why you chose to be a music educator in the...
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Speakers

Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser

Conn Selmer, Inc., Hal Leonard, Inc.

Sponsors

Conn Selmer Inc.

Hal Leonard Inc.

Thursday May 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:55pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100

All Areas

2:00pm EDT

It Takes a Village: Building Meaningful Family Engagement in the Music Classroom

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

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Families play a critical role in supporting their child’s musical journey. When families feel welcomed and involved, students feel supported and music programs build community. Family involvement extends beyond attending concerts; it includes participatory events, learning showcases, and leadership opportunities that invite them into the learning process. Join us for a conversation on...
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Speakers

Hattie Skvorak

PK-4 Music Teacher, Carl J. Lamb Elementary School

Hattie Skvorak serves as music educator at Carl J. Lamb Elementary School in Sanford, ME, where she teaches PK-4 General Music, Adaptive Music Enrichment, and directs the school’s Chorus, Bell Choir and Spartan Show Choir. With a commitment to family engagement and fostering a love... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:55pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

All Areas

2:00pm EDT

Stepping Aside: Student-led Rehearsal and Performance in the Large Ensemble Setting

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

Collins Center for the Arts @ 2 Flagstaff Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Since 1974, the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra (NY) has been making music without a conductor. Its model calls every musician into deep engagement with the entirety of a composition, the rehearsal process, and every musician within the orchestra. Inspired by Orpheus, music educators at both middle school and high school levels of learning across the country have employed this “conductor- less”...
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Speakers

Dr. Scott Jones

Ohio State University

Scott A. Jones is Professor of Music, Associate Director of Bands, and Director of the Lawrence and Isabel Barnett Center for Integrated Arts and Enterprise at The Ohio State University. He conducts the Symphonic Band, leads the undergraduate conducting curriculum, and founded the... Read More →

Brandon Duras

Director of Instrumental Music, Brunswick High School

Brandon Duras is currently the Director of Instrumental Music in Brunswick, Maine where he conducts the jazz band, Symphonic Band, Honors Wind Ensemble, and teaches piano and music theory. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire, he received his Bachelor of Music Education in... Read More →

Performers

Brunswick H.S. Wind Ensemble

Thursday May 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:55pm EDT
Collins Center for the Arts

Band

2:00pm EDT

Achieving Choral Artistry through Singer-driven Composition

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

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Do your singers readily focus on the expressive elements of music they are preparing to perform? Do you wish you could find something extra special for them to sing? This session will feature a step-by-step guide to help you and your singers create a truly unique signature work that showcases your ensemble and its special talents. Students will gain new insights into the choral art as they adopt...
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Speakers

Dr. Michele Kaschub

Professor of Music/Director of Music Teacher Education, University of Southern Maine

Dr. Michele Kaschub is Professor and Director of Music Teacher Education at the University of Southern Maine Osher School of Music. She is co-author of Minds on Music: Composition for Creative and Critical Thinking, Experiencing Music Composition in Grades K-2, Experiencing Music... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:55pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

2:00pm EDT

Jammin' in the Classroom: Hands-On Music Fun for K-8

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

Williams Hall Rm 110 @ 18 W Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Ready to bring Modern Band energy into your classroom? This interactive K–8 session gets students rocking, moving, and making music in fun, student-driven ways. Participants will explore engaging music centers, singing games with groove, and creative strategies that connect movement, rhythm, and ensemble skills. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas, song resources, and a digital Rock the Decades...
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Speakers

Jennifer Holmes

Jennifer Holmes is a PreK–8th grade music educator at Woodland Consolidated School in Northern Maine, where she teaches general music, concert band, jazz band, chorus, show choir, and Modern Band. A multi-instrumentalist and lifelong advocate for student-centered music learning... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:55pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 110

Gen Music

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

3:00pm EDT

Band Conducting Symposium

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT

Collins Center for the Arts @ 2 Flagstaff Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

This mini conducting symposium will serve as a workshop for educators looking to work on and improve their conducting to create a more meaningful and efficient rehearsal process. All students, no matter what age, can and do respond to conducting gestures effectively. The goal of this session is to provide 6 teachers a chance to conduct a student group on a piece of repertoire representative of...
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Speakers

Dr. Scott Jones

Ohio State University

Brandon Duras

Director of Instrumental Music, Brunswick High School

Performers

Brunswick H.S. Wind Ensemble

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT
Collins Center for the Arts

Band

3:00pm EDT

HELP! I have a choir!

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

In a region where many schools, districts, churches, or even community groups rely on a single music leader, regardless of expertise, you might find yourself in a position that requires you to lead a choir but with little to no choral experience. Whether you're a new church director, a recovering band director, or otherwise in over your head, this session has tools, guidance, tips, tricks, and...
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Speakers

Jesse Myers-Wakeman

Music Teacher, Kennebunk High School

Jesse Myers-Wakeman has been directing choirs for nearly 20 years and has been teaching voice for well over 15. Jesse is the director of choirs at Kennebunk High School, where he conducts the Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, and Jazz Choir, as well as teaching piano, ukulele, and digital... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

3:00pm EDT

Collegiates Meet with NAfME Eastern Div. President

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT

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

Collegiate attendees will meet with Dr. Malette.

Speakers

Dr. Wayne Mallette

Eastern Division President, NAfME

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100

Conference Event

3:00pm EDT

Musical Generation & Self-Expression – Improvisation in General Music Classrooms

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Improvisation is an important facet of a comprehensive general music education. This session will engage participants in music making through a variety of activities utilized to teach music for and with improvisation in general music classrooms. In addition to generating improvised music, we will discuss the values and benefits of providing students with learning opportunities through...
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Speakers

Casey Schmidt

Assist. Professor of Music Education, University of Southern Maine

Casey Schmidt is an Assistant Professor of Music Education at the University of Southern Maine’s Osher School of Music. Casey taught instrumental music and music creativity classes in Illinois and Wisconsin public schools for more than a decade prior to his work in higher education... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

Gen Music

3:00pm EDT

Something Old and Something New: Exploring Traditional and Contemporary Approaches to Folk Dance

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT

Memorial Union Bangor Room @ China Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Based on compilations such as Dance Music for Children by the Shenanigans, Rhythmically Moving by Phyllis Weikert/Gemini and the New England Dancing Masters, participants will revisit some "tried and true" folk dances they may not have taught in a while. In addition, the clinicians will sprinkle in some new ideas that students will enjoy. Come prepared to dance!

Speakers

Carlena Trombley

K-2 Music Teacher, Falmouth Elementary School

Carlena Trombley is a general music teacher in Falmouth teaching grades K-2. She graduated from UMaine Orono in 2014 with a B.A. in Music Education with a Vocal concentration. In 2021, she earned her M. Ed. in Integrated Teaching Through the Arts from Lesley University. She is currently... Read More →

Rebecca Hanaburgh

Music Teacher-PreK, 5th Grade and Small Group Chorus, Falmouth Elementary School

Becky Hanaburgh has been teaching general/choral music in Maine public schools for thirty three years. She currently teaches general music to grades PreK and 5 and directs the Small Group vocal ensemble at Falmouth Elementary School. She holds a B.A. in music from Cairn University... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT
Memorial Union Bangor Room

Gen Music

3:00pm EDT

Elite Jazz Combo Performance, Communication, and Interplay

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT

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

Featuring advanced improvisation by Ryan Blotnick (guitar), Chris Gagne (trombone) and Aaron Henry (sax), this session will demonstrate how musicians interact with each other in a combo setting. Often times in a jazz combo, students think of the group as a vehicle for one instrument to solo while the others "back them up." In this session, we'll discuss how to have a more focus on on advancing...
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Speakers

Amanda Roswick

Aaron Henry

Band Director, Yarmouth High School

"Aaron Henry is director of bands at Yarmouth HS and faculty in jazz saxophone at USM in Portland ME. He has performed at venues from Lincoln Center, The Blue Note, and Birdland to international jazz festivals, with artists including Dave Liebman, Miguel Zenon, Antonio Sanchez, and... Read More →

Ryan Blotnick

Chris Gagne

Associate Professor of Music, Springfield College

Nick Falk

Thursday May 14, 2026 3:00pm - 3:55pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

Performance

4:00pm EDT

Hookpad and Hooktheory for Education

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

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Discover how Hookpad and Hooktheory Classroom can transform songwriting instruction for your learners. This session explores practical, tech-friendly strategies for teaching melody, harmony, and form using Hookpad’s intuitive, browser-based tools. Attendees will learn how to set up classes, create assessments, guide students through compositional tasks, and integrate music theory concepts...
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Speakers

Lindsey Wiehl

University of Maine at Augusta

Lindsey Wiehl teaches woodwinds, music theory, music production, and composition at the University of Maine at Augusta. As a musician, Dr. Wiehl encourages others to unapologetically pursue their interests while ignoring stereotypes and preconceived notions of what it means to be... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 4:00pm - 4:55pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

All Areas Technology

4:00pm EDT

Blueprint Before the Downbeat: Designing the First Nine Weeks of Middle School Band

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

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

The first nine weeks of school can feel overwhelming for middle school band directors, especially new teachers and those entering the profession. This session offers a clear, supportive blueprint for designing those critical weeks with intention and confidence. Participants will explore a practical, week-by-week framework focused on establishing routines, building positive classroom culture,...
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Speakers

Kelley Johnson

Ms. Kelley Johnson is an experienced music educator, clinician, and instructional leader with a strong focus on middle-level band education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Bethune-Cookman University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Curriculum... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 4:00pm - 4:55pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107

Band

4:00pm EDT

Choral conducting basics for instrumental/Choral hybrid Directors

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

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

This session is designed for directors who conduct both instrumental and choral ensembles, but is open to anyone with an interest in refining their Choral gesture. In this session, we'll cover the similarities between instrumental and choral conducting, and also explore some simple and effective choral gestures in an effort to add clarity and simplicity to your practice.

Speakers

Darrel Whidden

Conductor and music educator Darrel Whidden joined the music department as choral director at South Portland High School in the fall of 2022. There, he teaches music electives, and conducts the chorus, and the South Portland Chamber Singers. Previously, Darrel has taught general music... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 4:00pm - 4:55pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

Band Choral

4:00pm EDT

My students’ won’t sit still!: Engaging Students through Movement and Manipulatives in the General Music Classroom

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

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Rainy days. Special schedules. The last days of school. All these seem to give students extra energy. Instead of dreading these times, what if we used them to our advantage? Strategically planning movement activities or pulling out a colorful manipulative could be the trick to tapping into students’ excitement and continuing to reinforce curriculum. This session will explore different...
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Speakers

Claudia Gruett-Labus

Lower School Music Teacher & Middle School Choral Director, Berwick Academy

Claudia Gruett-Labus graduated from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor with her Masters of Music in Music Education in 2025. She previously attended Butler University where she studied and earned a degree in instrumental music education. Claudia has taught general music, band, and... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 4:00pm - 4:55pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Gen Music, K-5

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

5:00pm EDT

LGBTQIA+ Educator Meetup

Thursday May 14, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT

Memorial Union Bangor Room @ China Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Sponsors

OUT Maine

Thursday May 14, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Memorial Union Bangor Room

Conference Event

6:00pm EDT

President’s Reception & Awards Ceremony

Thursday May 14, 2026 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT

Wells Conference Center @ 131 Munson Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Thursday May 14, 2026 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT
Wells Conference Center

Conference Event

8:00pm EDT

Thursday Evening Concert

Thursday May 14, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT

Collins Center for the Arts @ 2 Flagstaff Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Performers

Osher Jazz Combo

Thursday May 14, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Collins Center for the Arts

Performance

7:30am EDT

Conference Registration

Friday May 15, 2026 7:30am - 10:30am EDT

Collins Center for the Arts @ 2 Flagstaff Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Friday May 15, 2026 7:30am - 10:30am EDT
Collins Center for the Arts

Conference Event

8:15am EDT

Tri-M Roundtable

Friday May 15, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Do you have a successful Tri-M chapter at your school? Or maybe you want to start a Tri-M chapter but don't know how to start. Or maybe your school has a chapter, but you're trying to figure out what the students should be doing. This session will be a roundtable discussion of teachers sharing their experience with Tri-M including meeting plans, projects, and activities. Come with your ideas and...
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Speakers

Bill Buzza

MMEA Conference Chair, Edward Little High School

William “Bill” Buzza is in his 33rd year of teaching. He earned his BM in Music Education from USM and his MS Ed in Educational Leadership from UNE. Bill teaches at Edward Little HS in Auburn, Maine where he conducts the concert, pep and jazz bands, multiple levels of guitar classes... Read More →

Jen Fortin

Jen Fortin is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, MA with a Bachelors Degree in Music Education and Music Performance. She also earned her Masters Degree in Education from Thomas College in 2019. Jen began her teaching career at Scarborough High School in Houston,TX... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107

All Areas

8:15am EDT

Optimize Your School Choir’s Sound using Estill Vocal Techniques!

Friday May 15, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am EDT

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Estill Voice Training is an anatomy-based vocal technique that has transformed my teaching and directing. In this lecture, I will present how to use a few key Estill Figures and qualities with your middle and high-school choir to improve upon their sound. Participants will experience a few Estill basics, for example, thick versus thin, torso anchor, thyroid tilt, and the difference between speech...
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Speakers

Christine Letcher

University of Maine @ Augusta

Christine Letcher is an Assistant Professor in Music at the University of Maine at Augusta. She teaches applied lessons in Piano and Voice, Music Theory courses, and Music History. Christine is certified by Estill Voice International, LLC, as an Estill Master Trainer. She is the director... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

8:15am EDT

Challenge by choice: Getting started with using centers in the general music classroom

Friday May 15, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am EDT

Williams Hall Rm 110 @ 18 W Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Curious about music centers but not sure where to start? This hands-on workshop introduces practical strategies for creating and managing engaging, student-centered music centers. Designed for teachers new to the concept, participants will explore how centers can support creativity, independence, and differentiation while making assessment more authentic. Together, we’ll look at examples of...
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Speakers

Dr. Erin Zaffini

Director of Teacher Education, Longy School of Music

Dr. Erin Zaffini is an internationally recognized music and arts education speaker, consultant, clinician, and Assistant Dean of Teacher Education at the Longy School of Music. She directs Longy’s online Master of Music Education, Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies, and graduate-level... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 110

Gen Music, K-5

8:15am EDT

Creating a Jazz Culture

Friday May 15, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am EDT

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

"Creating a Jazz Culture" is an engaging, idea-packed session for music educators who want to energize their jazz programs and inspire students. Explore practical strategies for setting up your ensemble, selecting the right charts, and planning effective and creative rehearsals. Learn proven methods for introducing improvisation, developing style and groove, and connecting students to the rich...
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Speakers

Rebecca Mallory

Adjunct Professor, University of Maine

Rebecca (Becky) Mallory, a native of Northborough, Massachusetts, has dedicated over three decades to excellence in music education and performance. Following her recent retirement as Director of Music at Reeds Brook Middle School, she continues to serve on the faculty at the University... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

Jazz

8:30am EDT

Vendor Exhibits

Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 3:00pm EDT

Collins Center for the Arts @ 2 Flagstaff Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 3:00pm EDT
Collins Center for the Arts

Conference Event

9:15am EDT

Coffee & Pastry Social Time

Friday May 15, 2026 9:15am - 9:55am EDT

Collins Center for the Arts @ 2 Flagstaff Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Speakers

Matthew Waite

President, MMEA

Dr. Wayne Mallette

Eastern Division President, NAfME

Friday May 15, 2026 9:15am - 9:55am EDT
Collins Center for the Arts

Conference Event

9:55am EDT

I Wish I Knew Then What I Know Now

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

I Wish I Knew Then What I Know Now

Speakers

Dr. Richard Nickerson

Choral Director, Windham High School

Richard Nickerson and Robert Westerberg are veteran music educators with a combined 79 years of teaching experience. Together, these two music educators are united by a shared belief in the power of positive thinking and its ability to transform learning, creativity, and community... Read More →

Rob Westerberg

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

All Areas

9:55am EDT

Small Band Techniques

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Small bands can be great bands! Join this fast-paced, hands-on session exploring tools and tactics specifically geared towards achieving excellence with unideal instrumentation. Topics will include repertoire selection as well as rehearsal techniques for developing blend and balance, building confidence in sight-reading, and differentiating instruction. Participants will leave with ready-to-use...
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Speakers

Chris DeVona

Assistant Director of Bands, James Madison University

Chris DeVona is the Assistant Director of Bands at James Madison University, where he conducts the Symphonic Band and teaches conducting courses in addition to working with athletic bands. When not working with the JMU bands, Chris travels frequently as a guest conductor, clinician... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107

Band

9:55am EDT

Make "Whatever" Work and Win

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Make Whatever Work and Win Do you work in a school with a small program or an unbalanced choir? This workshop will be how to look at music differently and give all kids access to great music - even if there is just one boy and 12 girls! This will be a discussion on great repertoire that can be done with all types of groups. Being successful with repertoire can help to build a program stronger and...
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Speakers

Ellen Shuler

Ellen Shuler (BA, MME Music Education) is in her second year of building an amazing music program at Kents Hill School in Kents Hill, ME. Prior to moving to Maine, Ms. Shuler was the Chair of the Performing Arts at the University School of Milwaukee, as well as the 5-12 choral director... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

9:55am EDT

Challenge by choice: Getting started with using centers in the general music classroom (part 2)

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT

Williams Hall Rm 110 @ 18 W Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

In this hands-on follow-up session, teachers will apply what they learned in Part 1 by designing music centers tailored to their own students, space, and curriculum. Participants will brainstorm, plan, and create ready-to-implement stations that align with musical goals, foster creativity, and encourage student independence. With guided support, examples, and collaboration time, teachers will...
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Speakers

Dr. Erin Zaffini

Director of Teacher Education, Longy School of Music

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Williams Hall Rm 110

Gen Music, K-5

9:55am EDT

The Vocal Playground - Games and Tools for Teaching Jazz Improvisation to Choral Singers

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT

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

Designed for middle school and high school choral and general music educators, this professional workshop is ideal for teachers new to jazz choir or interested in starting one at their school. With a truly beginner-friendly approach, participants will learn how to introduce the concept of vocal improvisation to students and incorporate improvisatory activities into their rehearsals. Through...
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Speakers

Alicia Phelps

Director of Music Education, 317 Main Community Music Center

Alicia Phelps is a vocalist, pianist and music educator based in Portland. Alicia has performed with Grammy award-winning vocalist/saxophonist Darmon Meader (New York Voices), the Portland Jazz Orchestra, organist/pianist Dr. Joe Utterback, jazz pianist Jed Wilson, and notable musicians... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

Jazz Choral

9:55am EDT

Orchestra Reading Session

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT

Memorial Union Bangor Room @ China Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Bring your string instruments and play through orchestral repertoire for elementary, middle, and high school orchestras.

Speakers

Bill Bell

Friday May 15, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Memorial Union Bangor Room

Orchestra

11:00am EDT

From the Stands to the Stage: Using Pep Band & Marching Band to Elevate Your Program

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Pep band and marching band are more than spirit ensembles, they’re powerful tools for growing and strengthening your overall band program. This session explores practical strategies to boost visibility, enhance recruitment, and elevate musicianship through high-energy, community-focused ensembles. Most of all, how to build a strong community and relationships within your band program. Learn how...
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Speakers

Hailey Francoeur

Hailey Francoeur is a music educator, percussionist, and arts administrator committed to creating meaningful, high-quality musical experiences for students and communities. She currently serves as the Band Director at Sanford High School, where she leads a comprehensive 9–12 instrumental... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107

Band

11:00am EDT

Barbershop: What can this genre do to enhance your vocal program.

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

This session explores the history of barbershop music from its roots to the modern era, highlighting the genre’s musical characteristics and stylistic evolution. Participants will examine barbershop arrangements to better understand harmony, voicing, and expressive techniques unique to the style. The session also includes active music-making, with attendees singing select barbershop tags to...
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Speakers

Renae Misner

Renae Misner has spent 36 years proving that vocal music education is equal parts discipline, joy, and controlled chaos. She is the Director of Vocal Activities and Musical Director at Lawrence High School, where she has kept the focus on student-centered music-making and lifelong... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

11:00am EDT

Judge Training Session

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

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

This session is for all current All State audition judges and anyone who is interested in judging in the future. Come learn the updated judging protocols for MMEA All State auditions along with a deep dive into the judging rubrics, and a hands on experience with Da Capo.

Speakers

Ben Cox

David Morris

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100

Conference Event

11:00am EDT

Practical Application of Universal Design for Learning 3.0 in the Music Classroom

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 110 @ 18 W Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Universal Design 3.0 is the most equitable framework for educators to date! Come learn how this newly-revised framework can be applied to your own music and arts classroom setting with your own students! This interactive workshop allows teachers to dig into the new guidelines to make some realistic and practical changes that help meet the needs of their students. Whether your goals center...
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Speakers

Dr. Erin Zaffini

Director of Teacher Education, Longy School of Music

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 110

Gen Music

11:00am EDT

Solfege & Rhythm Activities to Engage Elementary Learners

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

This session, inspired by a TikTok video, is designed to give elementary teachers in grades K-4 lesson ideas for engaging their students through solfege singing and/or Orff instrument playing.

Speakers

Eric Yim

Music Teacher PK-3, RSU 14: Windham Primary School

Eric Yim teaches PK-3 general music and 3rd-grade chorus in the RSU 14 School District. He graduated in 2020 from the University of Southern Maine with his Bachelor in Music Education and has spent 6 years working with all ages K-12 doing anything and everything musical. His current... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

Gen Music, K-5

11:00am EDT

Getting Out of the Chart – Supporting Beginning and Intermediate Jazz Ensemble Rhythm Sections

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

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

This session will examine the rhythm section and its role in the jazz ensemble. We will discuss the collaborative interactions between rhythm section players and strategies for fostering authentic and creative music making in the context of rhythm sections in early to intermediate stages of development. We will focus on strategies that address moving students away from reading notated charts to...
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Speakers

Casey Schmidt

Assist. Professor of Music Education, University of Southern Maine

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

Jazz

11:00am EDT

Orchestra Round-Table

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Memorial Union Bangor Room @ China Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Discussion around all things strings in Maine; from All-State auditions to programs.

Speakers

Andria Bacon

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Memorial Union Bangor Room

Orchestra

11:00am EDT

Live Lunchtime Performance

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm EDT

Miller Cafe @ Collins Center @ Collins Center for the Arts, 2 Flagstaff Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

The 195th Army National Guard Band folk group and jazz combo will be performing in the Miller Cafe. Grab your lunch in the Bears Den and come back and enjoy some live music while you eat.

Performers

195th Army Nat Guard Band

Friday May 15, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm EDT
Miller Cafe @ Collins Center

Performance

12:00pm EDT

General Music Luncheon

Friday May 15, 2026 12:00pm - 1:15pm EDT

Buchanan Alumni House @ 160 College Ave, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Keynote by Erin Zaffini

Speakers

Dr. Erin Zaffini

Director of Teacher Education, Longy School of Music

Friday May 15, 2026 12:00pm - 1:15pm EDT
Buchanan Alumni House

Luncheon

1:15pm EDT

"From Wish List to Reality: Advocacy that Gets Results"

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

As music educators, we often dream big for our programs, but turning those dreams into reality requires more than creativity. It requires advocacy. In this session, you’ll learn practical strategies to grow your program by effectively working with administrators and stakeholders, building strong parent partnerships, and inspiring student buy-in. We’ll also explore resourceful fundraising...
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Speakers

Erika Gates

Band Director/General Music

Erika Gates is a Band Director and General Music teacher at Lake Region Middle School in Naples, Maine. She has a passion for creating meaningful access to music for all students. Her work focuses on empowering both educators and students through joyful music-making and culturally... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107

All Areas

1:15pm EDT

Stay Woke: Race and Racism in Music Education

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Transform your teaching! Discover how Critical Race Theory serves as a powerful analytical lens to create inclusive music classrooms. Learn practical strategies for diversifying repertoire, broadening auditions, and amplifying marginalized voices while fostering equity for ALL students across every musical tradition.

Speakers

Dr. Wayne Mallette

Eastern Division President, NAfME

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

All Areas DEIA

1:15pm EDT

From Warm-Up To Wrap-Up: Effective Strategies for Rehearsal, Assessment, and Mindset in the Choral Classroom

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

This session gives teachers easy yet effective ways to assess individual student progress in their choral classroom. I hope teachers take away practices for rehearsals and performances that allow students to learn at their own pace, make improvements, and show audiences that there is more to a performance than simply notes on a page. Key learning outcomes from this presentation include...
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Speakers

Christopher Belding

Music Teacher, Goffstown High School

Christopher Belding has been teaching in the Goffstown School District (NH) for 21 years. There, he directs the Chorus, String Orchestra, Full Orchestra, Concert Band, and Jazz Band. Chris holds a Bachelor of Music in Education degree from the University of Southern Maine and a Master... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

1:15pm EDT

Championing Music Education: Strategies to Sustain and Support Music Educators

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 110 @ 18 W Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Music education plays a vital role in fostering student engagement, their creativity, and their social-emotional development—yet those who teach music often face unique challenges that can undermine the support they need to remain in the field. This interactive workshop is designed specifically for music teachers who want to advocate for increased access to the support they need. Participants...
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Speakers

Dr. Erin Zaffini

Director of Teacher Education, Longy School of Music

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 110

Gen Music

1:15pm EDT

Elementary Repertoire Trends in Maine: A mixed methods exploration of approaches to elementary song selection

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT

Memorial Union Bangor Room @ China Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Have you ever been curious to see how other teachers plan and select songs for their curriculum? This interactive session will present findings of a 2025-26 survey of Maine elementary music teachers. Participants were asked what resources they use most, what their top criteria in a good song choice was, and what would lead them to remove a song from their curriculum. Findings show popular trends...
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Speakers

Eddie Holmes

Eddie Holmes is the general music educator at the Waynflete Lower School where he teaches Kindergarten to 5th grade and directs the 4th and 5th grade chorus. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Gettysburg College and is in the Masters in Music Education program at USM. In... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT
Memorial Union Bangor Room

Gen Music, K-5

1:15pm EDT

If I Can Jazz, You Can Jazz, Too!

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT

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

Jazz is scary! But does it have to be? If exploring vocal jazz feels intimidating, this session will show you why you should consider adding jazz to your curriculum, or even start your own jazz choir! As a newbie to teaching vocal jazz, I'll showcase the benefits I've seen in my program, discuss potential hurdles and how to overcome or avoid them, share some tips and tricks I've picked up, and...
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Speakers

Jesse Myers-Wakeman

Music Teacher, Kennebunk High School

Friday May 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

Jazz Choral

2:20pm EDT

All Member Meeting

Friday May 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:35pm EDT

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

Speakers

Matthew Waite

President, MMEA

Friday May 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:35pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 100

Conference Event

3:45pm EDT

Beginning Teacher Bootcamp

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 110 @ 18 W Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

Calling all early career music teachers who are in their first five years of teaching! Come get the support and resources you need as you continue to navigate your early years in the profession! Working collaboratively with each other, you will work with your peers through tried-and-true strategies as you apply them to your own teaching situation and students. Come engage in "challenge by choice"...
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Speakers

Dr. Erin Zaffini

Director of Teacher Education, Longy School of Music

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 110

All Areas

3:45pm EDT

What do you mean the schedule is changing???

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT

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

The transition from MS to HS yields the highest attrition rate across the board… now you’re saying we are adding new graduation requirements AND the school schedule is changing!?! Rob discusses strategies to help combat the never ending list of obstacles we face and help turn them into opportunities.

Speakers

Rob Wheeler

Rob Wheeler is a 26 year veteran of music education. He is an active educator, guest conductor, clinician and adjudicator in the greater New England area and is currently the director of instrumental music at Cape Elizabeth High School, ME.

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 115

All Areas

3:45pm EDT

Expressive Conducting - Connecting Gesture to Music

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 140 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

In this session, we will move beyond conducting time and explore
possibilities for improved artistic communication in rehearsals and
performance. We'll examine pragmatic ways to practice
expressive gesture, train your ensembles to be responsive to
expressive conducting, and apply these skills to repertoire. Bring
your batons!

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 140

Band Choral Orchestra

3:45pm EDT

Equity in General Music and Beginner Band

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT

Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107 @ 28 Beddington Rd, Orono, ME 04469, USA

In this session, UMaine undergraduates present expanded versions of their final project for coursework in which they took a critical look at common practices in PK–12 music education. Situated in current research, the preservice teachers identify a variety of practices—including elementary students receiving general music instruction once a week and the experiences of students with...
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Speakers

Maddy Vlahos

Maya Gould

Rebecca DeWan

Asst. Prof of Choral/General Music Education, University of Maine

Rebecca DeWan is Assistant Professor of Choral/General Music Education at the University of Maine where she teaches undergraduate music education courses and conducts Collegiate Chorale. Rebecca’s 14 years in the K–12 classroom inform her research on trauma-informed, equity-centered... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT
Donald P Corbett Hall Rm 107

Band Gen Music DEIA

3:45pm EDT

Reading Session; Santa Barbara Music Publishing

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT

Williams Hall Rm 120 @ 18 E Mall Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Join us for an energizing choral reading session featuring music from Santa Barbara Music Publishing. This session highlights a diverse selection of works across styles, voicings, and difficulty levels—chosen to support strong musical growth, be musically compelling, and excite singers grades 6-12. Attendees will leave with a packet of practical resources to help program your next concert!

Speakers

Christian Giddings

Conductor and music educator Darrel Whidden joined the music department at South Portland High School as choral director in the fall of 2022. There, he teaches music electives, and conducts the chorus, and award-winning South Portland Chamber Singers. Previously, Darrel has taught... Read More →

Darrel Whidden

Friday May 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EDT
Williams Hall Rm 120

Choral

7:30pm EDT

Friday Evening Concert

Friday May 15, 2026 7:30pm - 9:00pm EDT

Collins Center for the Arts @ 2 Flagstaff Rd, Orono, ME 04473, USA

Performers

Cousin Itt

Cousin Itt was formed in December, 2012 by four teachers at Windham High School. Their intent was to also incorporate student musicians. While the original lineup has changed, the band is still made up of teachers; Matt Shardlow on bass, a special education teacher at Windham Primary... Read More →

Friday May 15, 2026 7:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
Collins Center for the Arts

Conference Event