Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It is hard to believe that another school year is coming to an end. I’m sure all of you are busy preparing for spring concerts, auxiliary line auditions, graduation, and all the other end-of-the-year “stuff”! Please take time now and make your reservations and plans to attend the 2011 ABA Convention in Little Rock, July 27 – July 30.

The theme of the 2011 ABA convention is “ABA – Honoring the Past, Preparing For the Future!”.  In keeping with this theme, we will have some special presentations, including the Phi Beta Mu Hall of Fame Exhibit, a clinic on the History of ASBOA, and a video tribute to J. Raymond Brandon.

You may notice that the time for the J. Raymond Brandon Kick-Off Concert on Wednesday has been moved up to 4:30 p.m., and the ASBOA Committee meetings are at 5:30.  This is to allow those of you who are DCI fans to attend the Drum Corps International show in Little Rock that evening.

Our featured performing group for the Friday night concert is Rhythm and Brass, led by Baylor University trumpet instructor, Wiff Rudd.  Reviews for their performances call Rhythm and Brass    “ . . . smart and deliciously off-centered . . .” (Entertainment Weekly), and “ . . . nothing short of stunning . . .” (American Record Guide).  In addition to the Friday night concert, the members of Rhythm and Brass will also present two clinics for us during the convention.

Anthony Maiello, Director of Instrumental Studies at George Mason University, will present our keynote address:  “Never Give Up On a Student!”.  He will also conduct the Phi Beta Mu Reading Band session and present a clinic on “Conducting Nuances – Little Things Mean a Lot”.

Other highlights of this year’s convention include: 

        J. Raymond Brandon Kick-Off Concert and Video Tribute:  Conway Community Band·        
Teaching the AR Jazz Material – 8 mini-sessions
Bob Grifa – Technology Sessions on Finale and SmartMusic
Dr. Chris Knighten, University of Arkansas – Marching Band Rehearsal Techniques
Dr. Kelly Johnson, UCA - Teaching the New All-State Clarinet Etudes
Dr. Ryan Lewis, OBU – Answers to Your Questions About Beginning Percussion
Todd Johnson – The ABC’s of Slurbination and Other Practice Techniques
Linda Davis and Sara Field – Colorguard Tips For Your Marching Band
Patty Oeste  - Practical Ideas and Technology to Energize Your General Music Classes
Tom Chentnik – Band Boosters:  How to Get and Keep Parents Involved in Your Program
Julie Konzelman and Tammy Sangster – New Directors’ Clinic

 We have great clinics, great performing ensembles and of course, Great Exhibits!

PLEASE PRE-REGISTER!!  Make sure your registration materials are postmarked by July 13 to avoid late fees.

Customized In-Service Credit for the Music Professional