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LINCOLN — The 73rd Nebraska Music Educators Conference Clinic was held Wednesday through Friday.
Then, on Friday, more than 700 of Nebraska's finest student musicians performed with the All-State Band, Chorus, Orchestra and Jazz Band in back to back concerts at the Lied Center for the Performing Arts.
"The All-State music experience is a highlight of the year for students and teachers from across the state," said Rex Barker, president of the Nebraska Music Educators Association.
"It is one of the only activities organized to allow for students from across the state to work cooperatively with a goal of presenting one of the finest high school music performances of the year. The interaction and spirit of learning from each other sends both students and teachers back to their communities with renewed enthusiasm," he said.
Nationally known clinicians directed the four All-State high school performing groups:
Chris Vadala, University of Maryland, College Park, conducted the All-State Jazz Band.
Elena Sharkova, artistic director of the Symphony Silicon Valley Chorale, directed the All-State Chorus.
William LaRue Jones, music director/conductor of the Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra, was the All-State Orchestra conductor.
Joseph P. Missal, director of bands and professor of music at Oklahoma State University, conducted the All-State Band.
Numerous other state, regional and national clinicians, including the National MENC President, Barbara Geer, addressed a variety of topics related to current trends and challenges in music education.
Music educators from across Nebraska attended this conference, and awards were presented at the Thursday evening banquet at the Cornhusker Hotel.
Presentations included the 2009 inductees into the NMEA Hall of Fame: Gary Davis, UNK, Linda Donahue, Blair Public Schools, retired, and William Roehrs, retired, Lincoln Public Schools.
The Music Teacher of the Year was Sandra Whiston, Lincoln Public Schools. The Outstanding Young Music Educator was Brittany Rom, Millard South.
Distinguished Service Awards were given to Glenn Nierman, UNL, Bob Jenkins, Barbara Kluver and Dr. Jim Saker, UNO.
Administrator of the Year was Chris Arent, Wahoo High School.
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