Maine Motif Issue 2, Vol. II (Winter, 2018) | Page 28

present sessions on teaching improvisation to middle school and novice high school students, as well as instrument-specific presentations on teaching jazz style. The lineup of presenters also includes experienced educator, adjudicator, and composer, Terry White, who will offer a session on preparing a jazz ensemble from the adjudicator’s perspective. Terry’s many years of adjudicating experience give him a unique Craig Skeffington Terry White perspective on all aspects of preparing a jazz group, including literature selection, adherence to style, and teaching improvisation. Craig Skeffington, a gifted composer and veteran educator, will host a jazz ensemble reading session geared toward middle school and high school directors. This provides a valuable opportunity to explore new and classic literature. A live big band will be on hand to perform the literature and discuss its merits. Best wishes for an inspiring spring term! Mike Sakash holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts in Saxophone Performance, African American/Jazz Studies, and Music Education, as well as a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies and Contemporary Media from the Eastman School of Music. Before settling in New Hampshire Mike was Associate Professor of Music at Washington & Jefferson College (PA). Currently, he is a full-time faculty member at Fryeburg Academy, in Fryeburg, ME, and serves as a guest artist and clinician at music festivals throughout the country. He has performed, recorded, and toured with the Phoenix Jazz Project and the Traverser Saxophone Quartet, in addition to being a regular member of the Portland Jazz Orchestra. You can contact Mike at [email protected].