MMEA 2011 Midwinter In-Service Clinic
Elementary, Technology, Advocacy, Assessment, and General Sessions

as of February 6, 2012

Begin planning your professional development days with this list of sessions! Updates will be made as needed, and a final version with locations will be posted in February. This list does not include performances. Note for Elementary Music Educators: Many of you also teach choir in upper elementary and middle school. Remember to check out the Choral Track!

Thursday Morning Pre-Conference, February 16

Real-World Advocacy: An Interactive Workshop
Bob Ouren, Scott Shuler, Pete Olsen, Mary Cecconi, Kristin Tjornehoj, Nancy Miller Townes
9:00 AM
Feeling frustrated with continued talk of cuts to your program and not sure what to do? This workshop gives you what you need to take back to your school, district, and community to engage decision makers and parents. Hear all the perspectives from a panel that includes a principal, parent, lobbyist, organizer, former school board member, music educator and the current NAfME (formerly MENC) president. Each of these panelists brings a passion for music education along with their expertise. Following the panelists presentation, go in to small groups to discuss the challenges and successes in local music education advocacy, and wrap up the morning by learning how to make the "asks and presentations" through a thought-provoking, hands-on role play exercise. Information will be applicable to schools big and small, rural and urban, public and private. Presenter biographies and more detailed descriptions of the sessions can be found on the Midwinter Clinic website at mmea.org/winterclinic.htm. Come learn how to involve others in supporting music education in schools!

Thursday Afternoon, February 16

Methods not Mouse Clicks: Strategies for Teaching Music Technology
J. Anthony Allen
2:00 PM
A prominent challenge in teaching technology is staying current as technology evolves. Equally, teaching the art of music is challenging. This session demonstrates ways to complement teaching specific music technology tools by also teaching the art of music technology. In this session, teachers will gain strategies to incorporate music technology/software (notation, recording) into their classrooms without monopolizing their prep time.

Rhythm - EVERYONE can read and become proficient!
Kevin Fuhrman
2:00 PM
This session will delve into the process of learning Rhythm from a different perspective that has proven effective in having students understand and be able to perform music. The process is used in a number of schools as a way for students to be able to synthesize rhythms on their own and be able to accurately practice their own parts without having to “hear it first.” Kevin Fuhrman is a professional percussionist/teacher/composer/author that delivers a no-nonsense approach to understand our notation system that cuts the learning curve by 50% to 90%! This will be hands on and include a demonstration on the power of this approach. Experience seeing the “light bulb” go on for those going through the idea for the first time!

Positive Change Through 8 Liberating Habits
Scott Shuler
2:00 PM
In this session specially designed for collegiate members but useful for any teacher facing a new teaching setting, NAfME (formerly MENC) National President Scott Shuler elicits reflection and provides a bit of inspiration through provocative questions and ideas based on his career of teaching and leadership, which has spanned Grades 3– Postgraduate, seven states, and almost every specialty area of music education.

Practical Strategies for Guitar in the Elementary Classroom
P. Brett Smith
2:00 PM
We can meet our music standards while introducing students to an instrument that provides life-long enjoyment. Guitar, as a core part of the elementary music curriculum, enhances our secondary programs through singing, music literacy, composition, improvisation, and the study of other cultures while students acquire technique and skills. This session will share a curriculum, and effective strategies to teach guitar in the elementary classroom to 30 students at the same time. You will learn how to assess students, manage instrument inventory, find curricular resources and more.

Mozart Madness: Storystelling*Drama*Song*Creative Movement*Instrumental Play*Visual Art!
Deborah Ziolkoski
2:00 PM
Snobby Pears and Magical Chefs will be discovered in the music of one of history's most celebrated composers - Mozart! Through the use of simple props, puppets and costumes teachers will discover how to create a Mozart unit which combines children's literature with fun filled art activities, drama, storytelling, song and dance. Musical concepts are woven into lessons to keep the focus on imaginative fun! Handouts available at session.

Orff Schulwerk in the General Music Classroom
Orff Chapter
2:00 PM
Members from the Minnesota Orff chapter present models for implementing an enactive approach to musical understanding. Come prepared to sing, speak, move, and play instruments as we explore classroom tested materials and creative strategies that can be adapted for use in any classroom.

Essential Technology Tools for Music Educators: Capitalizing on What Students Already Know
Michael Buck
3:15 PM
Technology is virtually inescapable in contemporary society. Explore the potential benefits and limitations of using technology in the music classroom or rehearsal. Referencing ISTE standards, the Minnesota Academic Standards in the Arts and researched-based best practices, this session will provide an overview of a variety of music technology instructional tools and software.

Assessing the 21st Century Secondary School Musician
Rich Cangro
3:15 PM
In a data-driven 21st century education, teachers need to have a valid and reliable means for measuring and reporting student achievement. This practical, hands-on session will examine different types of measurement tools used for performance-based assessments. Collecting data on authentic student music achievement and using the data for determining grades will also be discussed. Participants will design and learn to develop assessment instruments for use in their own programs.

Exploring the Phrygian Sound
Paul Cribari
3:15 PM
Session participants will delve into the unique sound of the Phrygian mode through singing, improvisation, and instrumental activities. These elements will be incorporated with the addition of canonic movement and singing to create a larger form as a finale. (Please bring recorders.)

Rural and Urban Round Table NEW Description
Keitha Hamann Michael Scott
3:15 PM
Participants are invited to bring and share their ideas and "best practices" related to assessing, evaluating, and grading student achievement and participation. The goal of the session is to give our students better feedback for their efforts and to make us more effective teachers in the process. Modify these tools for your school, and consider using the data as part of the justification for your program in an era of budget deficits and staff reductions.

Using Finale in Music Education
Mavis Kallestad
3:15 PM
A practical demonstration of how to use Finale for Music Education, this clinic is designed to assist music educators in creating the materials they need in their music programs. Attendees will learn how to get the best results when scanning in music, creating tests and worksheets quickly, custom exercises, SmartMusic accompaniments and more.

Building a Strong Music Program through Combined Band/Choir/Orchestra Performances
David Livermore, Barry Zumwalde, Travis Sletta
3:15 PM
Major Works, Lasting Memories, Strength in Numbers. Forest Lake music teachers will present information and strategies used in the transformation of the music program from three separate disciplines into one cohesive department. With only a few adjustments, rigor and quality can be preserved while giving audiences and music students awesome experiences. The Forest Lake Band, Choir and Orchestra will also demonstrate some of the works that are possible with the music program. Copyright issues and administrative support will also be addressed.

How-to: Kodaly in Your Classroom
Kodaly Chapter of Minnesota
3:15 PM
The Kodaly Chapter of Minnesota will offer an active, engaging workshop for elementary educators. Check the Midwinter Clinic website in January (mmea.org/winterclinic.htm) for session details and clinicians.

Text-Reading Strategies: Practical, Positive Application in Secondary Ensembles
Wendy Barden
4:30 PM
Decoding, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. Understand - and capitalize on - these text-reading strategies to improve music literacy and performance in secondary bands, choirs, and orchestras. (Designed to meet reading requirement for relicensure.)

Beyond Performance and Teaching: Careers in the Business of Music
Rich Meiten, Scott LeGere
4:30 PM
Do you ever talk with your students about choosing careers in music, or choosing college music programs? Do students ever ask you whether there are alternatives to becoming a performer or a music teacher? If so, this session is for you. You will learn about the many careers in music that support the recording, concert, television, and film industries, and how students can train successfully for them in college.

Lullabies and Singing Games of Guatemala and Southern Mexico
Brad Ollmann
4:30 PM
In this session, attendees will learn four collected lullabies and singing games that are known throughout Guatemala and southern Mexico. After learning the pieces, participants will work in small groups to determine potential pedagogical uses of the presented songs. The session will conclude with a discussion on how to authentically collect music from students or travels, and how wearing the “song collector hat” nurtures our musical growth as educators, resulting in the validation of our students' cultures and development of their musical growth.

Can Assessment Help Music Education Survive and Thrive in a Data-Driven World?
Scott Shuler
4:30 PM
What's the big deal about assessment? Is the time required justified by improved teaching, learning, and/or advocacy for music classes? Drawing on years of working with teachers on classroom, district, and national (NAEP) assessments, NAfME (formerly MENC) National President Scott Shuler talks about how we can play the assessment game so that our students come out winners.

Basic Counseling Skills For Music Educators: Empowering Students To Make Rational Decisions
Michael Silverman
4:30 PM
This session will provide music educators with basic listening skills and simple techniques to better help students with and without special needs solve their problems and conflicts. Participants will learn when and where to seek professional help for student problems, how to incorporate behavioral analysis and problem solving skills, and techniques for empowering students to make rational and thoughtful decisions.

Creating and Utilizing Online Digital Learning Packages
Heidi Stodola, Tyrone Schmidt
4:30 PM
Learn about the components of a high quality online digital learning package, various resources for creating and publishing these digital lessons, and explore some of the tools available for use in creation of lessons. Presenters will discuss how technology can engage your students while acknowledging obstacles to using digital lesson packages in the music classroom and large ensemble settings. Session is useful for all grade levels and types of music classes.

Meeting Students Where They're At: Using Hip-Hop to Teach the National Standards
Robert Vagi
4:30 PM
In an increasingly diverse society, engaging students can be a challenge for even the most skilled educators. One possible solution to the challenge of making music instruction relevant to students' lives is the inclusion of popular music in school curricula. However, many teachers who realize the potential benefits of using popular music often don't know where to begin. This session will provide teachers with resources, ideas, and activities for using hip-hop to teach the National Standards. Topics will include history, culture, composition, instrumental performance, analysis, and evaluation. Examples of student work will be shown and handouts will be provided. Teachers from all grade levels are welcome to attend regardless of their level of experience with hip-hop.

Friday Morning, February 17

Elementary Open Forum
Erin Berg
8:00 AM
Join Erin Berg, MMEA Classroom Music Vice President, for a discussion about classroom music issues in Minnesota. Bring your ideas, comments, and concerns.

A Poster Session Featuring Minnesota Music Educators' Research


Mother Goose is on the Loose
Thomas Borden
9:15 AM
Mother Goose is on the loose and your classroom is eagerly waiting. Rockin' rhythms are waiting in your favorite nursery rhyme. Snappy phrases and knee-slapping words stand out in a session of rhythmic patsch, body percussion, and drumming. Bring along comfortable shoes and a friend as partners are always welcome. Materials will be available.

Connecting Standards, Repertoire and Curriculum: The Impact of Repertoire Selection
Douglas Orzolek
9:15 AM
This session will offer suggestions on how to link state and national standards and established curricula with the music that we select to perform with our ensembles.

Harmony Across The District: Building A Better Music Department
Kinh T. Vu
9:15 AM
School music departments often operate in fragmented ways. The general music, choir, band, and orchestra programs function separately within buildings and throughout a district's many schools. Students, as a result, miss out on musical and academic opportunities stemming from a lack of intentional planning on the part of adult leaders. Music educators, parents, community members, and administrators that strive to work in collegial ways will benefit learners by establishing common goals and high expectations. During this workshop, I will focus attention on strategies that encourage positive and productive music department cultures. Participants should bring their ideas for sharing.

Same Concept, Same Tune, Different (and Complementary!) Approaches: Orff and Kodaly
Leadership from Orff and Kodaly chapters
9:15 AM (2 hour/Double length session)
Minnesota Orff Chapter and Kodaly Chapter of Minnesota leaders join together for a special two-hour session that will approach the same song or the same concept from their respective philosophies. Be ready for active learning and music-making through these complementary approaches side-by-side.

The Significance of Orff Schulwerk in the Modern Classroom
Paul Cribari
10:30 AM
Using a piece from Volume I of Music for Children session participants will discover the lasting value of the Orff Schulwerk approach in an era of technology that includes cell phones, IM, and text messaging. Examples will be geared toward intermediate elementary aged students. (Please bring recorders.)

Practical Strategies for Guitar in the Elementary Classroom
P. Brett Smith
10:30 AM
We can meet our music standards while introducing students to an instrument that provides life-long enjoyment. Guitar, as a core part of the elementary music curriculum, enhances our secondary programs through singing, music literacy, composition, improvisation, and the study of other cultures while students acquire technique and skills. This session will share a curriculum, and effective strategies to teach guitar in the elementary classroom to 30 students at the same time. You will learn how to assess students, manage instrument inventory, find curricular resources and more.

Innovations in Distance Education at the International Music Camp
Timothy Wollenzien, Michelle Kiec
10:30 AM
The University Preparatory Program at International Music Camp prepares students for collegiate level music study through three weeks of intensive instruction in music theory, music history, and aural skills. Using an innovative instruction design, the curriculum was taught entirely in a distance learning module last summer, with instruction provided exclusively through video conferencing and instant messaging. Campers also participated in instrumental and vocal ensembles, and took private lessons as part of the program.

Music Education for Life in the 21st Century: Vision and Challenges
Scott Shuler
11:45 AM
Today's students are growing up in a world far different from what most current teachers experienced. Dinosaurs just roll over in the tar pit, but educators evolve. NAfME (formerly MENC) National President Scott Shuler will challenge participants in this session to consider how we can use the 3 artistic processes – creating, performing, and responding – and forward-thinking secondary electives to empower our students to become motivated, independent musicians who are ready for the 21st century.

Friday Afternoon, February 17

Resource Fair: Classes to Engage the Other 80%
Nyssa Brown, facilitator
1:15 PM - 4:15 PM
What high school or middle school courses might you offer to engage students not involved in band, choir, or orchestra - the other 80% of your student body? Visit the resource fair and talk with colleagues who are teaching classes such as Beginning Guitar, Garage Band, Electronic Music Lab, or World Music. Learn the who, what, when, where, and how behind their courses and start thinking about offering one or more at your school.

Is Your B-A-G Outdated?
Thomas Borden
1:15 PM
Are you looking for new B-A-G materials for your beginning soprano recorder lessons? New ideas for beginning soprano recorder are featured in this session. Teachers are invited to bring along their soprano recorder as engaging ideas, activities, and play-alongs are shared and enjoyed. Materials will be available.

Mariachi-Minnesota Style
Tim Davis
1:15 PM
Mariachi, in Minnesota? Yes, Mariachi programs are springing up all over the country. Austin Public Schools organized a mariachi ensemble in January of 2010. It has been a popular alternative to the traditional school music groups. This session will show you how it has worked in Austin and hopefully give you the motivation to introduce mariachi to your school district.

Integrating Math and Literacy in the K-5 Music Classroom
Amy Herfindahl
1:15 PM
Twenty strategies ready for use in the K-5 music classroom tomorrow! This session will focus on research-based integration strategies that marry music concepts with math and reading concepts.

The Jazz Mini-Musical for Elementary Students
Sherry Luchette
1:15 PM
Learn to take the blues, a story, and some instruments to extend one piece into a mini-musical performance! Participants will be hands-on in choosing a story, a blues progression, props, parts, and instruments for their mini-performance. Have fun with jazz music in a whole new way, and bring your recorders!

Elementary Choral Reading Session
MMEA and ACDA Leaders
2:30 PM
ACDA and MMEA leaders will share choral repertoire that works in your teaching setting. A variety of voicing and difficulty will be included. Check the Midwinter Clinic website at mmea.org/winterclinic.htm for details on clinicians and session in January. Choral reading packets provided courtesy of JW Pepper.

Changing Meter and The Dominant Triad: Orff Schulwerk in the Upper Elementary and Middle School
Paul Cribari
2:30 PM
Beginning with body percussion, session participants will explore ways to make mixed meter more accessible to their students. Examples will be transferred to recorder, unpitched percussion, and barred instruments.

SmartMusic 2012: New Assessable Sight-Singing & Sight-Reading Capability
Leigh Kallestad
2:30 PM
SmartMusic 2012 now includes new sight-singing methods and warm-ups for the choir program and sight-reading for the band and orchestra programs. When put in the sight-singing/reading mode students are given a time preview of the music and then allowed one take before the results are automatically submitted to the teacher's online grade book. Assessable sight-singing/reading assignments can be created in minutes for your students to practice at home or school.

Never - Fail Folk Dances - CANCELLED
Marian Rose

Arts Integration: Does it Work?
Zane Schaefer, Kathy Grundei
2:30 PM
The Perpich Center for Arts Education has been working to develop K-12 models of arts integration with nine school sites in West Central Minnesota. Zane Schaefer and Kathy Grundei have been working with teachers from those schools to develop standards-based arts integration. This session will present information about what is being learned and what steps you may consider if you are interested in exploring the benefits of arts integration in your school.

Advocacy Required
Kristin Tjornehoj
2:30 PM
Advocacy is communication. Communication is critical to success in any relationship, group or situation. This session brings together ideas that can help you present your successes (music ensembles, classroom events, individual instruction, and more) in a way that can generate support, knowledge and awareness to a wide variety of constituents. Now is the time to get organized and act in a proactive manner as you share knowledge of the myriad of strengths and activities music education provides.

Fostering Independence in 21st Century Elementary Music Classes
Rich Cangro
3:45 PM
Fostering authentic 21st century skills in music learning that lead towards independent musicianship naturally centers on how students can communicate, collaborate, critically think, and be creative. This session is intended to introduce activities and teaching strategies that engage elementary music students to become independent learners and active music-makers through cooperative learning and student interaction. Participants will learn and experience activities that engage learners in music-making, as well as fun teambuilding and classbuilding games for social interaction and developing a sense of classroom community.

Integrating Math and Literacy in the K-5 Music Classroom
Amy Herfindahl
3:45 PM
Twenty strategies ready for use in the K-5 music classroom tomorrow! This session will focus on research-based integration strategies that marry music concepts with math and reading concepts.

Sibelius 7 + Avid Scorch for iPad – Creating new opportunities in the music classroom
A. Eric Heukeshoven
3:45 PM
The combination of Sibelius 7 and Avid Scorch for the iPad brings a wealth of new possibilities for music educators. A. Eric Heukeshoven will present an overview of several new and exciting features of Sibelius 7 including the completely redesigned task-oriented user interface, new sound library, text and typography enhancements. The session will also include a demonstration of how files created in Sibelius 7 can instantly be put to use in music classrooms in a variety of new and exciting ways via Avid Scorch for iPad.

Hands-On Activities in Jazz for K-8 Students
Sherry Luchette
3:45 PM
Jazz activities presented include ways to introduce the jazz swing feel, strategies for singing and feeling syncopated phrases, playing, scatting, and singing through the blues form, and successful improvisation activities using classroom percussion, xylophones, recorders, movement, and singing.

Dancing is for Boys - CANCELLED
Marian Rose


Three Steps to Success When Planning an Elementary Music Space
Jodi Tuthill
3:45 PM
Planning a new or renovated facility? The thoughts and ideas you've gained from your years of experience need to be shared with the building committee. This session will guide you through the new construction process from design to construction and give you the three steps to success: 1) Organize your plan. 2) Understand the new construction process. 3) Provide an outline for discussion.

Special Note for Elementary Music Educators: Many of you also teach choir in upper elementary and middle school. Remember to check out the Choral Track!

Want to register for the Midwinter Clinic?
Download a registration form, or register online if you are paying by credit card.

Looking for other tracks or the full list of sessions?
Go to the Midwinter Clinic home page.