In addition to nationally recognized conductors, approximately 45 sectional coaches (traditionally music teachers from the state of Minnesota) are contracted to assist with section rehearsals and general camp activities. During the summer camp, each student participates in five to six hours of rehearsal each day, split between large group rehearsals and section practices. Enrichment activities for the week include master class sessions, professional performances, a recording session and opportunities for performing in small ensembles. The week culminates with a free public performance on Saturday.

Purpose of All-State Program

MMEA’s All-State program is rooted in our mission statement, high quality music education for every student. To ensure equity in access to music education, we focus our efforts on activities related to music education in the schools. We also partner with individuals, organizations and retailers outside of the school setting to ensure a healthy, vibrant music education community in Minnesota.

MMEA’s All-State program is primarily an educational experience. Students experience a live audition in a “blind” or anonymous setting, to prepare them for college entrance auditions or other auditions in their musical experiences after high school. The All-State festival week focuses on many different skills, including musical expressiveness, instrument or voice specific techniques, cultural or historical context for the selected repertoire, leadership skills in a music ensemble, and critical social and independent-living skills as students live and study outside of their home and their existing school/social groups. The February “reunion” rehearsals and concerts teach students the discipline and focus required to prepare in 24 – 36 hours what was previously prepared in six days. They also learn the challenge of quickly reestablishing a high-functioning team.

Students and their sponsoring music educators both report the energizing effect that All-State participation has on the individual student as well as the student colleagues in the ensemble in which the All-State student participates. MMEA seeks to extend the indirect benefits of All-State participation to schools and ensembles across the state. In order to do this, MMEA has instituted upper limits of participation from each school or ensemble.

The visible, final result of our All-State program is a public performance in August and again the following February. We value the fact that we can share this amazing experience with family, friends, music educators and the community. However, our primary interest lies with the educational experience the students receive.