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TracksDateDayStart TimeLocationTitleDescriptionPresenter(s)
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday10:30amTheatreOpening SessionOpening Session
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Lobby Performance1/29/2026Thursday1:10pmTheatre LobbyLobby Group PerformanceSymphony of Change String Chamber Ensemble (Lanier High School)Laura Wood
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Band1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmOconee RiverDickerson Middle School Percussion EnsembleDickerson Middle School Percussion EnsembleScott Brown
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Band1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmAthena A/BMake Concerts a MUST GO Event!Get ideas for not only connecting with parents, but also with others in the community that may be unaware of your talented musicians. Ideas include--Pre Evaluation, Holiday, Special Events, Enhancements, Guest Conductors & Performers, Making the Most of your setting.Johnny Folsom
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmAthena FThey Can Go Beyond: Autonomy in Middle School ChoirUnlock the secrets to elevating middle school musicianship with innovative strategies and rehearsal techniques. Discover innovative strategies to enhance middle school musicianship. This session covers research-based techniques for fostering autonomy, improving classroom culture, and engaging students. Participants will gain tools through interactive elements, bridging the gap between school levels.Ruth Springer, Colby White
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmAthena I/JPedagogical Approaches to Choral Repertoire SelectionExplore how repertoire choices impact classroom and performance challenges. This session identifies score-based issues that hinder musical and educational success, offering strategies in vocal pedagogy and rehearsal planning. Educators will leave with practical tools and greater confidence in selecting effective, goal-oriented repertoire for their students.Christopher Hickey
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Elementary1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmOlympiaMove Your Body: 1, 2, StepJoin us for an immersive journey into the captivating world of step dance, where rhythm becomes a language and movement tells a powerful story. This session invites participants to experience the vibrant and dynamic fusion of percussive footwork, creative choreography, rhythmic literacy, and the infectious energy of step dance.Lesley Dennis
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Elementary1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmParthenonSOS I’m Sick! Creating More Meaningful & Musical Substitute Plans for the Elementary Music ClassroomIt’s something everyone uses but rarely thinks about-substitute lesson plans. By the end of this session, walk away with both samples of high-quality substitute lesson plans and tips to develop your own plans that allow your students to still have a meaningful and musical experience even in your absence.Jennifer Myles, Sarah Deal
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmAthena G/HFrom High School to the Podium: Strategies to Grow Future Music TeachersSchool districts are struggling to fill music teaching positions. This session explores actionable strategies to encourage students to pursue music education as a college major. Attendees will gain insight into the key factors influencing student career decisions and explore how music educators can create a culture that inspires future teachers.Dr. Gene Butler
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmAthena EExploring Music Therapy: A Meaningful Career Option for Music StudentsThis session explores music therapy as a career path for music students including training, qualifications, employment settings, and growth opportunities within the field. Educators will gain practical insights to effectively guide interested students toward this evidence-based healthcare profession that combines musical skill with therapeutic practice.Dr. Ellyn H. Evans
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmGrand Hall 1Teach in the Peach: Why You Should Become a GA Music EducatorDiscover Teach in the Peach, Georgia’s exciting new teacher recruitment campaign, and explore the many rewards of a career in music education. CNAfME attendees will also have the chance to participate in a Q&A with Georgia Teachers of the Year: Michael Kobito (Band Director, 2023 GaTOTY) and Christy Todd (Chorus Director and Music Technology Teacher, 2024 GaTOTY).Christy Todd, Michael Kobito
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Orchestra1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmTheatreBarber Middle School Chamber OrchestraBarber Middle School Chamber OrchestraAdam Gresham
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Technology1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmAthena CTransforming the Music Classroom Through Technology:
Communicate • Advocate • Celebrate		Transform your music classroom with the power of technology! Learn how to communicate creatively with students and families, advocate for your program through digital storytelling, and celebrate student success in meaningful ways. Discover tools and strategies that amplify your impact and bring joyful, 21st-century music learning to life.Sheila Smith
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Technology1/29/2026Thursday1:30pmAthena DCreating Backing Tracks for Chorus and Orchestra PerformancesHow to use Logic and other elements to be able to play with a track on stage. This session starts with how to make a track based on written piano and other parts in the score, considering leaving empty spaces for student performance on strings, vocal or other instrument parts. We will end with a technical gear rundown to show the exact process of how I do this with a 50 person ensemble.Nathan Kufchak
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday1:45pmExhibit Hall LobbyLobby Group Performance116th Army Band Woodwind Quintet
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Band1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmAthena A/BSwingphonic: A full band beginner approach to teaching Jazz.Swingphonic is a full band approach to introduce students (and directors) to jazz history, music, and style. Even if you know nothing about jazz, the swingphonic approach gives you easy solutions to help you and your students learn.William Grimes
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Band1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmAthena EYes, They Are Just As CapableThis session addresses the unique challenges and opportunities in developing secondary ensembles, focusing on creating a positive and successful environment for students who may not have made the top ensemble.Will Parker
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmAthena FYou Have 5 Minutes! Tips for Choral Sight Reading Success at LGPEThis session is designed to share practical and successful methods for Choral Directors to implement in their classroom and during their Sight Reading Evaluations at LGPE. Veteran educators, new educators and future music educators are invited to attend and learn from this session.Ladell Fortune
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmAthena I/JReimagining Rehearsal: Yes, Singing Games Work for Middle School Chorus!Think singing games are just for elementary? Think again! This interactive session shows how singing games can build vocal skills, music literacy, and classroom community in middle school chorus. Walk away with engaging, ready-to-use activities that energize rehearsals, support musical growth, and make learning fun.Michaelyn Findley
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Elementary1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmOlympiaA Music Teacher, a Guitar, and a Room Full of Little Kiddos!!This session is designed for K-2, focusing on bringing music to life through movement, sing-a-longs, dancing, composition and…oh yeah, a whole lot of the steady beat! Learn practical strategies and playful activities that inspire musicality and joy in every child - while keeping your classroom energized and full of laughter.Amanda Gardner
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Elementary1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmParthenonMove it or Lose it!Incorporating movement into our lessons is a excellent way to get students engaged quickly. Movement activities support musical concepts like tempo, rhythm and dynamics and using movement and partner activities can foster community in the classroom. Come learn some quick movement activities that are a great way to start class!April Mattson
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmAthena G/HThe Hiring Process: Best Practices for Resumes, Interviews, and Everything In-BetweenIf you are looking for your first job or ready fr a change, this session is for you! District music supervisors will share tips for the hiring process: an attention-getting resume, how to prepare for an interview, and how to be confident in front of the interview team.Carolyn Landreau
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmGrand Hall 1Panel Discussion:  The Power of WEIn this session, join our panelists as we discuss recent music education progress in Georgia, the many avenues you can advocate for increased support of the arts, and how we can work together at the local, district, and state level to increase music education opportunities for all students. Andy Esserwein will serve as moderator.  Panel members will include:

Richard Woods, Georgia State School Superintendent
Christy Todd, Georgia Department of Education Chief of Staff
Alan Fowler, GMEA Executive Director
Neil Ruby, Carroll County Schools Fine Arts Coordinator		Andy Esserwein, Richard Woods, Christy Todd, Alan Fowler, Neil Ruby
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Orchestra1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmEmpire RoomTrickum MS OrchestraTrickum MS OrchestraWhitney Tinley
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Technology1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmAthena CTech Tools for Modern BandMaximize learning and creative potential in general music classes while using powerful tools to keep kids engaged. In this session, explore multimedia learning tools for music knowledge, listening, and critique, interactive tools for music reading, aural skills, and learning popular instruments, as well as easy-to-use software for music creation.Dr. Scott Burstein
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Technology1/29/2026Thursday2:45pmAthena DIn the Middle: Maximize General Music for Grades 5-8This presentation offers practical strategies, honest insights, and emotional support for teachers in their first five years. We'll explore classroom management, burnout prevention, work-life balance, and professional growth. Whether you're surviving or thriving, you'll leave with tools, encouragement, and a clearer path forward in your teaching journey.Jody Underwood
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Lobby Performance1/29/2026Thursday3:40pmTheatre LobbyLobby Group PerformanceBuford Middle School Saxophone QuartetKathy Mason, Matt Scott
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Band1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmTheatreBarber Middle School Honors BandBarber Middle School Honors BandDr. Robert J. Grogan
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Band1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmOconee RiverVilla Rica Midnight Jazz CatsVilla Rica Midnight Jazz CatsAnn M. Wilson
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Band1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmAthena A/BBeyond the Buzz: Building Better Brass PlayersThis session will explore effective, practical strategies to develop well-rounded brass players at any level. We will discuss techniques for better tone production, healthy embouchure development, and practical tools for educators to inspire brass students' musical growth beyond the basics. Brass instruments/mouthpieces are welcome!Dr. Paul Dickinson
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Band1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmAthena ETeaching On Empty: The Myth of Work-Life BalanceIn this practical session, participants explore how setting boundaries is not only essential for well-being, but critical to sustaining a long and impactful career Through simple, actionable strategies, this session will empower directors to say “no” with confidence, and define their role in ways that align with their values.William Kilgore, Miguel Guisasola, Katy Wilson-Fields
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmAthena FMusical Theatre Singing vs. Choral Singing: Communicating With Your StudentsChoirs sing a wide range of music. Teachers must communicate the sound quality needed for each musical number regardless of the genre. We’ll discuss the differences in classical and musical theatre techniques and use exercises to explore how each style can help every voice become stronger and healthier.Dr. Dawn Neely
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmAthena I/JThe Attuned Conductor: Knowing Yourself, Empowering OthersGreat conductors don’t just lead—they connect. This session explores our need for honest and accurate self-awareness paired with keen awareness of others to encourage and cultivate maximum potential. Through interactive activities, participants will assess personal strengths, evaluate gestural clarity, and consider strategies that heighten ensemble awareness, responsiveness, and collaboration.Dr. Tobin Stewart
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Elementary1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmOlympiaSupporting our Emergent Multilingual MusiciansAs our classrooms become more culturally/linguistically diverse, it can be challenging to find ways to include emergent multilingual musicians. In this session, attendees will engage in activities to build empathy for our emergent multilingual musicians and explore strategies for supporting their inclusion in our classrooms.Daniel Holder
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Elementary1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmParthenonSongwriting: Expressing Ourselves in Words and MusicThis session will explore how to align songwriting activities with literacy standards to enhance student learning. Teachers will learn engaging activities for lyrical writing, musical composition, and the bridge between them that leads to storytelling. Interdisciplinary topics introduced include craft and structure, phonological awareness, and revising and editing. This workshop incorporates ideas for multiple instrumentations, including beat-making and production, rhythm section, and melodic writing.Dr. Scott Burstein
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmGrand Hall 1"Survive and Thrive: Lessons from the First Five"This presentation offers practical strategies, honest insights, and emotional support for teachers in their first five years. We'll explore classroom management, burnout prevention, work-life balance, and professional growth. Whether you're surviving or thriving, you'll leave with tools, encouragement, and a clearer path forward in your teaching journey.David Starnes, Brittany Mori, Taylor Watts
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General Interest1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmAthena G/HFine Arts Coordinators: Mock InterviewsMusic Coordinators from accross the state will be available to conductt short mock interviews. Participants will have sample interview questions and the opportunity to share your resume for feedback. Come practice your interview in a positive, stress free environment!Carolyn Landreau
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Orchestra1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmEmpire RoomThe Fastest 6 Minutes in Music! Tips & Tricks for Surviving Sight-Reading at LGPEDoes sight-reading at LGPE give you and your students a maximum version of the Sunday scaries? At this interactive session, learn some tricks for preparing yourself and your orchestra for turning the sight-reading process into the most entertaining six minutes of your LGPE performance!Patricia Cleaton
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Technology1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmAthena CComputational Thinking in Music for 6th-8th: Where Coding & Music CollideThis session will be an overview of new curriculum resources that use coding and Earsketch for 6th through 8th grade students.Will Martin
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Technology1/29/2026Thursday4:00pmAthena DIntegrating Music Theory with ToneSavvy.comThe easiest music theory technology ever, and the best solution to reach every student! Students can complete ear training exercises, solfeg exercises, fingerboard mapping, key signatures, rhythms, and more. Use the site for differentiation, remediation, digital days or sub plans. Bring your laptop and get started with Tonesavvy.com for free!Suzanne Grant, Evelyn Champion
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Orchestra1/29/2026Thursday5:30pmUGA ChapelKell HS Chamber OrchestraKell HS Chamber OrchestraJessie Fuchs
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Lobby Performance1/29/2026Thursday6:40pmTheatre LobbyLobby Group PerformanceSchwob School of Music, Columbus State University Cello QuintetPaul Hostetter, Jamie Simonsen
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Band1/29/2026Thursday7:00pmTheatreKennesaw Mountain High School Wind SymphonyKennesaw Mountain High School Wind SymphonyMichael Huebner
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday7:00pmFirst Baptist Church AthensLindley Middle School 7th & 8th Grade ChorusLindley Middle School 7th & 8th Grade ChorusCedrick Hayward
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Elementary1/29/2026Thursday7:00pmAthena FBlue Ridge Elementary Schools Chorus and Orff EnsemblesBlue Ridge Elementary Schools Chorus and Orff EnsemblesBrittany Swann
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Guitar1/29/2026Thursday7:00pmOconee RiverSt. Pius X Advanced Guitar EnsembleSt. Pius X Advanced Guitar EnsemblePatrick Bolin
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday7:30pmFirst Baptist Church AthensNorthview High School Cecilian SingersNorthview High School Cecilian SingersMason Copeland
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Elementary1/29/2026Thursday7:30pmAthena FNorton Elementary School Orff EnsembleNorton Elementary School Orff EnsembleAndrew Barber
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Lobby Performance1/29/2026Thursday7:55pmTheatre LobbyLobbyAtlanta Youth Wind Symphony Saxophone QuartetDr. Scott Stewart
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday8:00pmFirst Baptist Church AthensMartha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts Advanced ChoirMartha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts Advanced ChoirLauren Covington
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Band1/29/2026Thursday8:15pmTheatreNorth Georgia Youth Wind SymphonyNorth Georgia Youth Wind SymphonyDennis L. Naughton
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday8:30pmFirst Baptist Church AthensLuxLuxEmily Allison, Dr. Ashley Conway
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Choral1/29/2026Thursday9:00pmFirst Baptist Church AthensKennesaw State University Chamber SingersKennesaw State University Chamber SingersDr. Ryan R. Fellman
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Lobby Performance1/30/2026Friday8:25amTheatre LobbyLobby Group PerformanceOsborne Middle School Flute ChoirEmily Nguyen, Frank Folds
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Band1/30/2026Friday8:45amOconee RiverLambert High School Percussion StudioLambert High School Percussion StudioPaul McCrea, Dr. Jon Buchholz, Kevin Morrison
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Band1/30/2026Friday8:45amTheatreLost Mountain Symphonic BandLost Mountain Symphonic BandBrittany Mori, Vincent Rose
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Band1/30/2026Friday8:45amAthena A/BBreaking the Silence: The Experiences of Female Band DirectorsThis presentation combines findings from over 2000 participants and four major studies to illuminate the lived experiences of female high school band directors. It explores systemic challenges, key retention factors, and post-COVID shifts, offering a powerful call to action for advocacy and equity in music education at all levels.Dr. Amy Bovin
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Choral1/30/2026Friday8:45amAthena FListen to This! Effective Teaching Practices Using Sound Recording/Editing SoftwareUnlock the full potential of free sound recording/editing software to elevate your choral or musical theatre program. In this session, you’ll learn how to create effective warm-up tracks, produce layered rehearsal recordings for each voice part, edit accompaniment tracks, and even craft a polished, professional-quality podcast.Dana Lamb-Schaubroeck
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Choral1/30/2026Friday8:45amAthena I/JVertical Alignment: No Chiropractor Necessary!Join us for a practical discussion on building a connected, collaborative, and thriving choral community from middle school to high school. Topics include: strategies for successful recruitment, retention, and transitions. Strengthen your vertical team and keep singers singing—together.Claire Pappas, Katie Dieal, Christian Bigliani
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CNAfME1/30/2026Friday8:45amAthena GSurprise! The Secrets of Elementary Music You Didn’t Know You NeededFuture music teachers, take note! This session reveals the behind-the-scenes secrets of elementary music success—like staying organized, borrowing and building lessons, using children’s literature creatively, and crafting a solid scope and sequence. Walk away with real-world tips your textbooks didn’t cover and tools you'll actually use.Emily Kay Boswell
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College1/30/2026Friday8:45amGrand Hall 1Swing into Action: A Practical Jazz Toolkit for Music EducatorsGet practical tools to build your jazz program! We'll explore essential setup considerations, including instrumentation and amplification, effective part-doubling strategies for varied ensembles, and practical solutions for common challenges. Develop skills in improvisation, authentic style, rhythm section integration, and literature selection. Gain tangible takeaways to use immediately in your classroom.Dr. Victoria Warnet
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Elementary1/30/2026Friday8:45amOlympia“I Got You: The Soul of Orff – Syncopation, Soul, and the Sound of Georgia”Infuse your upper elementary/middle school Orff classroom with James Brown's energy! This session explores syncopation, D pentatonic improvisation, rhythm sticks, and movement, rooted in Georgia's musical heritage. Experience practical Orff techniques inspired by the "Godfather of Soul."Sherry Puryear
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Elementary1/30/2026Friday8:45amParthenonManaging Challenging Behaviors in the Elementary Music ClassroomExperienced school-based music therapists will share tips on how to set up a classroom for success. Using Universal Design for Learning as a proactive behavior management system will be discussed with practical ideas that are easy to implement to better shape behaviors before they escalate.Kirby Carruth, Rachel Coon-Arnott, Stephanie Guest, Maddie Hellemn, Shannon O'Donnell
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General Interest1/30/2026Friday8:45amAthena HBeyond the Ratings: A Holistic Assessment of Your ProgramMove beyond ratings and placements to evaluate your programs! By reframing LGPE type adjudication criteria through the lenses of students, families, administration, and community, educators will easily understand their program’s strengths and opportunities for growth as they lead programs of significance, regardless of ensemble size, setting, or evaluation success.Dr. Brian M. Toney
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Guitar1/30/2026Friday8:45amLigotti Hall 1Get a Guitar Lesson. Yes, For Real.New to guitar? Been playing guitar for a few years? Get those pesky questions answered. All things guitar are welcomed. This session is open-ended and is intended for Directors with a Beginner-Intermediate level of experience on the guitar.Jeff Schaefer
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Orchestra1/30/2026Friday8:45amEmpire RoomTeaching to the Middle: Sequencing and Skills for Intermediate String PlayersOnce students get past the first year or two of playing their instrument, the range of skills they can learn and need increases dramatically. From additional finger patterns to shifting and vibrato, we'll discuss ideas for teaching these skills and incorporating them into literature for the intermediate player.Jon Carmack
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Technology1/30/2026Friday8:45amAthena CI’m not a studio musician, but I can teach like one!Join us as we explore tools to encourage your students’ creativity through beat-making, audio production, and composition. With notation tools like Flat for Education and Noteflight Learn in conjunction with audio production tools including Soundtrap for Education and OGenPlus, skill development and creativity can flourish side by side.Jody Underwood
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Technology1/30/2026Friday8:45amAthena DProduction Techniques for Recording Vocals and InstrumentsExplore what is needed to plan, record, produce, and mix professional sounding tracks. Learn from current Music Technology teachers on how they incorporate industry standards in the classroom.Jeremy Dudman, Lamar Turner
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Research1/30/2026Friday9:15amLigotti Hall 2College Music Teachers’ Perceptions of AI in Music Teaching and LearningA survey of all USG music faculty reveals perceptions of AI-ME in higher education. Respondents indicate inconsistent access to training resources and skepticism of instructional efficacy. Future implications and program development are presented.Dr. Robert C. Saunders
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Research1/30/2026Friday9:45amLigotti Hall 2Preparing to Teach Music: Insights and Lessons from the Student Teaching ExperienceDiscover key factors for successful student teaching experience in music education. Focusing on growth, challenges, and professional development, this study offers actionable insights on reflection, communication, lesson development and planning, and adaptability for students and mentors alike.Dr. George Blankson
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Band1/30/2026Friday10:00amAthena EDemystifying the All State Jazz AuditionAuditioning for the All State Jazz Ensemble is not as complicated or overwhelming as it may seem. The authors of the revised jazz audition process explain each step, including advice for directors who aren't familiar with jazz but have students who love it!Roy Denton, Jeremy L. Lumpkin, Ann Wilson, Daniel Scott, Bill Wynn
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Band1/30/2026Friday10:00amAthena HTurning Your Booster Mess into a Thriving Success!This workshop will share a 5-Step system for helping your booster program develop systems and strategies for building a sustainable booster leadership team. We will examine planning strategies and practical ideas for collaborating and communicating with your music communities, strategic volunteer recruitment, fundraising, and communication.Dr. David W Vandewalker
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Choral1/30/2026Friday10:00amAthena FThe Art of 2-Part: Choral Rep for Any AgeDive into a carefully curated selection of 2-part pieces that transcend age or grade level. Whether you're nurturing beginners or refining seasoned singers, the repertoire in this reading session will ignite your choir's passion for singing and elevate their skills. A complimentary music packet will be provided for each director.Dr. Chantae Pittman
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Choral1/30/2026Friday10:00amAthena I/JPositive All-State Chorus Auditions: Procedures, Preparation, and PracticesGet an inside look at Georgia’s All-State Chorus audition process—from prep to scoring. Led by experienced organizers, this session includes real stories, expert tips, and collaborative discussion to help you support your students and engage more deeply in ASC. Perfect for both new and veteran choral directors.Krystin Kicklighter, Mystee Wilcox
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CNAfME1/30/2026Friday10:00amAthena GBeginning at the End: Planning for Your Program in ReverseMaria von Trapp was wrong; the beginning isn’t the best place to start. When planning for your program, it’s often best to start at the end. What do you want your students to know when they leave your program? Session attendees will learn to develop their own reverse teaching plan.Dr. Kenna Veronee
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College1/30/2026Friday10:00amGrand Hall 1The Road To Recovery: Managing Music Educator BurnoutMusic educators face unique challenges that can lead to burnout—from demanding performance schedules and high expectations to emotional investment in students' success and administrative burdens. This interactive workshop provides music educators with practical strategies to recognize, prevent, and recover from professional burnout. Prepare to be renewed, refreshed, and motivated.Dr. Marcus Morris
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Elementary1/30/2026Friday10:00amOlympiaWeaving Joyful Recorder Experiences into the Music RoomExplore simple, playful strategies that make recorder instruction engaging, effective, and fun throughout the year.  Jennifer K. Prestridge
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Elementary1/30/2026Friday10:00amParthenonVocal Development in Young ChildrenTuneful singing requires tuneful thinking and physiological awareness. To help young children explore the sensation of singing, we must use developmentally appropriate techniques and activities that are wonderfully child-like, imaginary and fun. This lively session will share ideas that immediately engage, encourage and support young children in their vocal development.Lillie H. Feierabend
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General Interest1/30/2026Friday10:00amAthena A/BMusic Meets Admin: Translating Creative Instruction for Your School LeadershipJoin this interactive session to gain new perspectives and strategies for connecting with school administrators. Explore instructional models, learn to articulate your instructional moves, and discover ways to strengthen relationships with your building leadership. Walk away with practical tools to enhance understanding and support your work as a music educator.Wesley Brooks
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Guitar1/30/2026Friday10:00amLigotti Hall 1Around the Guitar in 90 Days!Teaching Beginning Guitar in one semester? While it may seem daunting, with the proper planning, it can be done! Join in this open discussion with your colleagues and learn their tricks of the trade! Participants will take away a half-year syllabus with weekly goals and activities included!John Sweat
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Orchestra1/30/2026Friday10:00amEmpire RoomFoundations to Fluency: Comprehensive String Pedagogy for the Orchestra ClassroomThis session will focus on helping educators create a sequential and comprehensive 7-year string pedagogy to take your players from 6th grade to 12th grade. We will explore various aspects of left and right hand development, ensemble skills, and more.Adam Gresham, Jessica Fuchs
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Technology1/30/2026Friday10:00amAthena CCross Continental Collaborations Using YuStudio: Audio/Visual Projects in One Student Friendly DAWProject ideas using YuStudio- the only student-friendly DAW that includes a video integration.Max Wheeler, Ashleigh McDaniel Spatz
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Technology1/30/2026Friday10:00amAthena DFundamentals of Hip Hop EducationThis interactive session utilizes best practices for integrating Hip-Hop culture and pedagogy into formal education to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Through hands-on activities, participants will explore the core elements of Hip-hop, gaining practical strategies to connect these concepts to students’ education.Dr. Scott Burstein
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Research1/30/2026Friday10:30amLigotti Hall 2Survey of Secondary Instrumental Music Educators’ Perceptions of Undergraduate Preparation to Teach in Disparate LocalesAn overview of the results of a nationally-distributed anonymous online survey examining secondary instrumental music educators’ perceptions of their undergraduate preparation for teaching across disparate locales. Participants (N = 489) shared their perceptions of preparation to teach across disparate locales and experiences they perceived to impact their feelings of preparation.Elise M. Naber-Allen
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Lobby Performance1/30/2026Friday10:55amTheatre LobbyLobby Group PerformanceStephenson High School Quatuor Double' SaxophoneQuentin Goins, Noah Speaks
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Lobby Performance1/30/2026Friday11:00amAtriumLobby Group PerformanceChamblee High School Elite Vocal EnsembleTimothy Simmons
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Band1/30/2026Friday11:15amOconee RiverCambridge High School Jazz 1Cambridge High School Jazz 1Daniel M. Scott
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Band1/30/2026Friday11:15amTheatreSouthwest Dekalb High School Wind SymphonySouthwest Dekalb High School Wind SymphonyJames O. Seda
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Band1/30/2026Friday11:15amAthena HThere are How Many Percussion Parts???Participants will look at percussion parts in the scores from current concert band literature. We will examine the instrument list and notation of percussion parts, and discuss how to assign parts from the perspective of “I don’t have that many percussionists!” and “What do I do with the extra percussionists?"Penelope Pitts
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Band1/30/2026Friday11:15amAthena EBuilt to Last! Teaching Band Your Entire Career in Rural South GeorgiaThis session will provide insight on how to build and sustain a band program in a rural school. We will discuss how to achieve success and maintain a program that will keep your school and community happy and supportive throughout your career.Jonathan Hickox
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Choral1/30/2026Friday11:15amAthena FConducting Across the Clef: Women Directing Tenor-Bass EnsemblesThis session will explore the unique experiences, challenges and successes of female choir directors working with tenor-bass ensembles - offering insights into how to cultivate trust, connection and excellence. Whether you're new or looking to reinvigorate your approach, this session offers tools and a supportive space to learn and grow.Chelsea Green, Zelda Johns
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Choral1/30/2026Friday11:15amAthena I/JSound Before Sight: Music Learning Theory-Informed Choral PracticeMusic Learning Theory (MLT) can be a powerful tool in improving our students’ audiation skills via a “sound before sight” approach to music literacy. In this interactive session, the presenter will demonstrate some basic tenets of MLT and how they can play out in the choral classroom.Dr. Joshua Palkki
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CNAfME1/30/2026Friday11:15amAthena GRehearsals, Rep, and Real Talk: A Young Choral Director's Survival GuideChoral directors juggle countless decisions in rehearsal planning and repertoire selection. This session offers a clear blueprint to maximize rehearsal time, choose music that supports vocal growth, and overcome various daily scenarios as a young teacher—helping you build a strong foundation for success.Austin Hannon
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College1/30/2026Friday11:15amGrand Hall 1Woodwind repair: Save money, fix it yourself!This session will cover basics of woodwind repair and offer cost reducing methods for repair as well as introducing methods for more in-depth repairs. Attendees will have a better understanding of how to fix it, or when to send it off to the repair shop.Dave Lawson
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Elementary1/30/2026Friday11:15amOlympiaThe Music Doesn’t Stop! – Continuous Music Making (It’s called music class after all!)How can we make every second count? This active session provides you with lessons and classroom management strategies to keep your class singing, playing, and fully engaged—even when challenges arise. Transform lost instructional minutes into opportunities for active music-making. (Disclaimer: You will be making music – a lot.)Andrew Markel
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Elementary1/30/2026Friday11:15amParthenonMove with Purpose: Intentional Movement in the Elementary Music RoomThis session examines the pedagogical role of intentional movement in elementary music education and explores how thoughtfully designed movement activities can enhance student engagement, support differentiated learning, and reinforce key musical concepts. Participants will engage in hands-on activities and leave with practical strategies for integrating purposeful movement into their classrooms.Christina Hart
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General Interest1/30/2026Friday11:15amAthena A/BUnited Arts: An Adapted Music Appreciation Curriculum for Students with Disabilities in High SchoolMost students with disabilities in high school do not have access to the performing arts and yet deserve an opportunity to learn and participate in the Arts programs. The different lessons will support the music educator and how best to introduce different topics surrounding all areas of music education.Carlee Durden, Bri Henderson, Reece Jennings, Roy Joyner, Amber Weldon-Stephens
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Guitar1/30/2026Friday11:15amLigotti Hall 1Guitar Repertoire Reading SessionCome hear and play through music written for the Beginner-Intermediate Guitar Ensemble. Bring a guitar to play along!Jeff Schaefer
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Orchestra1/30/2026Friday11:15amEmpire RoomMeeting Students Where They Play: Creative Strategies to Differentiate Instruction and Foster Musical SuccessThis session will provide educators with creative strategies to differentiate instruction—modifying content, process, product, and environment—to ensure all students thrive. Whether supporting advanced learners or those who struggle, teachers will gain practical tools that promote engagement, build motivation, and cultivate independent musicianship, all to maximize each student’s success.Dr. David Doke