Texas Bandmasters Association
Bandmasters Review • September 2013
16
With TBA, TCDA and TODA meeting at the same
time, this year the TBA Academy was open to new
and young teachers from all three organizations. Over
160 attendees put in eight hours of intensive training
on all aspects of being a professional educator. Topics
included classroom management, discipline and
motivation, legal issues facing music teachers, proper
handling of money, communication with parents and
administrators, booster clubs, building a culture of
success, and the role of UIL, TMEA, and TEA. This
daylong session strives to “connect the dots” between
university training and the expectations on the job.
Special thanks to an outstanding Academy faculty:
Richard Floyd, Robert Floyd, Tom Waggoner, Brian
Coatney, Lynne Jackson, Theresa Whatley, Randy
Gilmore, Will Pitts, Holly Wardell, Rick Ghinelli,
Robert Bryant, Danny Detrick, Mark Chandler, and
Tim Lautzenheiser. Additional thanks to Alfredo Vélez,
David Devoto, Jeff Rice, Kenneth Griffin, Sharon Lutz,
and Mike Brashear for their support and efforts in
making this year such a huge success.
The TBA Academy for New Band, Choir, and
Orchestra Directors will be back in 2014. Everyone
involved in the hiring of new teachers should encourage
attendance to the Academy. Young directors who have
been through this training are better prepared to assume
the responsibilities of a professional educator.
TBA Academy 2013
Brian Merri l l
“The TBA Academy is just what
any new music teacher needs before
starting a career in music.”
Michael Cortes, Assistant Band Director,
Rhodes Middle School, San Antonio ISD
“This academy was influential and
inspirational. No matter whether you
teach band, choir or orchestra, you will
leave the academy as a better music
educator.”
Brittany Elliff, Assistant Choir Director,
Spillane Middle School, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
“The TBA Academy was an inspiring
day of clinics with some amazing
teachers! Every young teacher should
attend the Academy.”
Josh Howe, Assistant Band Director,
Spence Talented and Gifted Academy, Dallas ISD
“Even as a second year teacher, I
learned a fantastic amount from the
TBA Academy. I’m excited to go into
year two with even more tools in my
teacher toolbox.”
Marie Parisot, Assistant Choir Director,
Arnold Middle School, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD