Page 14 - 2018-BMR-September

TBA Academy 2018

Brian Merrill

All day Thursday at this past summer’s convention, Some of this year’s attendees had this to say:
as directors listened to recordings, attended clinics and “The TBA Academy is an invaluable resource
concerts, and got reacquainted with colleagues from for all young teachers. The comprehensiveness of
around the state, over 150 young teachers and directors the clinics has helped me to feel more confident
new to Texas took part in the eighth year of the TBA than ever about all of the facets of not just
Academy for New Band, Choir, and Orchestra Directors. teaching band, but in leading a professional life
The Academy is an intensive, daylong session that connects as a young adult. This academy is a must-attend!”
the dots between university training and the expectations —Alex Hedden
on the job. Topics included classroom management,
discipline and motivation, legal issues facing music “Without the mentorship and knowledge of the TBA
teachers, communicating with administration, the role Academy, I would not have turned out to be as strong
of TMEA, UIL and TEA, professional growth, proper of a teacher as I am today. Not only did I feel more
money management, professionalism, and taking care of confident for my first year of teaching, but I learned
your personal finances. Special thanks to the Academy’s how to truly inspire my students to reach for the stars.”
“All-Star” faculty: Brad Kent, Robert Floyd, Rob Myers, —Samantha Muller
Steve White, Jeremy Strickland, Robert Herrings, Rick
“I attended the 2018 TBA Academy as I was
Ghinelli, Carol Simpson, Amanda Drinkwater, and Tim
about to go into my second year of teaching.
Lautzenheiser. Additional thanks to Chico Portillo, Pam
It offered information on a variety of topics…
Elrod Huffman, Christina Bires, Mike Bartley, Amanda
some of which I didn’t even know I needed!
Vereen, Mike Brashear, Sharon Lutz, and Academy
Ultimately, the experience was wonderful
Coordinator Brian Merrill.
with highly qualified speakers and relevant
The TBA Academy will be back again for 2019! Everyone
information. I would recommend it to anyone!”
involved in the hiring of new teachers should encourage
—Emelia Johnston
attendance to the Academy. Young directors that have been
through this training are better prepared to assume the “The financial presentation was very helpful!
professional responsibilities of a music educator. Afterward, I felt less overwhelmed about money
and more certain that I can manage it as a new
teacher!”
—Kayla Crowley

Bandmasters Review • September 2018 12 Texas Bandmasters Association