Following Thursday’s General Session, work-a-day sessions at the 2012 Biennial Music Educators National Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, began in earnest, following seven tracks:
- Areas of Strategic Planning
- Collegiate
- General Music
- Council of Music Program Leaders
- Society for Music Teacher Education
- Special Research Interest Group
- Society for Research in Music Education
Two poster sessions that allowed music educators to share research of all kinds drew participant interest from all seven tracks, however. Arranged by author and subject matter, the posters explored in-depth research and innovative ideas.
The poster area was busy throughout the session.
Linda Thornton of Pennsylvania State University discussed her research project, “Important Others: Music Teachers Perceived Role in Music Teacher Recruitment.” She explored how high school music teachers may function as contextual supports for future music educators.
The well-lit walkway between hotel ballrooms and the lobby of the St. Louis Union Station Marriott was once the platform area for trains entering and leaving the station.
Guests sample cocktail fare and chat in the Marriott’s Great Hall.
After a day of serious study, the President’s Reception in the Grand Hall gave everyone a chance to unwind and chat with friends. Sponsored by the NAfME Capital One Visa card and by Acceptd, the reception also included a remote live performance by jazz pianist Jeff Franzel in New York City. Yamaha presented Franzel using “Remote Live” and “Remote Lesson” technology to deliver his music through a Yamaha Disklavier piano in St. Louis.
The hand-crafted Allegorical Window in the Great Hall, which served as a waiting room for railway passengers.
Scott C. Shuler, president of the National Association for Music Education accepts a check from Doug Dean, general manager of the St. Louis Union Station Marriott on behalf of NAfME’s Give a Note Foundation. The foundation aims to support music programs in underserved areas.
—Roz Fehr, March 30, 2012. © National Association for Music Education (nafme.org)
