|
|
|
Changes. Life is full of changes and UMTA makes changes too. I'm most grateful to be able to succeed Dr. Lynn Dean as President of this organization. He has given us great leadership with dignity, wisdom, compassion, as well as a wonderful sense of humor. As I consider the number of UMTA Presidents I've worked with and known over the years, I'm honored to be included in this group of people who love this organization enough to give much of their time, and to do their best to make this organization function in the best way to benefit all the members.
This summer, my household has endured a major change: we renovated our kitchen. I mention this because its a great reminder that relates to what we all deal with, especially in our teaching. As part of the job, our fridge was moved to the front room, along with almost everything else from the kitchen. Almost 23 years of habit of going to the fridge immediately changed. When the new fridge was delivered, it was placed in the kitchen where it belonged, and we found ourselves walking past it to the front room: the new habit had taken over quickly. After about 4-5 days of laughing about this, we finally returned to the original habit of stopping in the kitchen.
As musicians and teachers, we often find ourselves evaluating habits such as hand position, posture, etc. Sometimes those habits need to adapt, improve, or outright change. New habits are sometimes hard to establish: the old habit can be hard to change or correct. But when we consciously work at it, the new habit will establish itself, replacing older habits.
Some of us have the habit of arranging our schedules to make sure we can attend conference. If this isn't your habit, let this year be the one to make that change. Reschedule lessons or hold group lessons that week to free up those 2 days for Conference. If you have younger children, arrange for childcare so you are comfortable leaving them for the time (tax deduction!). Arrange a carpool with one or more of your fellow teachers to travel together to the conference. Travel time is always good for talking and sharing ideas, and discussing what you learned that day. Dr. Westney will present one session on his critically acclaimed book, "The Perfect Wrong Note." If you haven't read it yet, quickly obtain a copy and read it, as it will help you in your own study of music, as well as helping your students progress. Robert Vandall is excited to return to Utah and visit with the membership. Other clinicians include George Litterst, technology genius, who always gives an excellent presentation at MTNA National Conferences, and other sessions will give you much "food for though" in your performing and teaching.
Information for the Conference is found under "Conference" on the right side of the home page, with session descriptions, registration, and parking and hotel information. Shepherd Union Building, Weber State University, Ogden will be our conference site this year, and we look forward to seeing many of you during that conference.
Coila Robinson |
|
Local Association Workshop Ideas
Needing ideas for your UMTA monthly meetings? Check out the Utah's Best page for some great recommendations!
Utah Music Teachers Conference 2010
to be held November 5th & 6th
Weber State University, Ogden, Utah
|
|
