where she led us in an afternoon of fantastic music-making and instructive
teaching. In May, members of our UMaine chapter assisted in a myriad of
ways as we hosted the Maine All State Music Festival and MMEA Inservice
conference.
Dr. Michele Kaschub shares the following news from the USM chapter:
“The USM CNAfME chapter will host its 8th Northern New England Collegiate
Symposium on Music Education on October 22 on the Gorham Campus of
USM. The theme for the conference is “Curriculum: Beyond the Canon” and
sessions will explore materials, methods, and music from beyond the
western European canon which foster the inclusion and retention of PreK-12
music students through the practice of culturally responsive pedagogies.
The USM CNAfME chapter is actively planning its trip to the NAfME Eastern
Division conference in Atlantic City. Approximately 45 members are planning
to attend and several members have submitted proposals for general music
and collegiate sessions - fingers crossed!”
I hope that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy some peaceful relaxation
this summer, as we prepare for another exciting academic year.
Maine Arts Commission Report
By Argy Nestor, Director of Arts Education, MAC
Starting a school year is monumental for teachers. A new calendar year is
nothing compared to a new school year. But, I don’t have to tell you that!
Setting up the classroom, unpacking classroom supplies, new class lists to
put onto the computer, reviewing curriculum and assessment are all part of
the drill. What will the schedule look like? How many classes and students
will there be? Will there still be a music room? Will the new tuba arrive in
time? What will the administration expect? These questions may be similar
to what you are asking at the beginning of this school year. As the summer
weather winds down and the air begins to feel differently I know you’ll be