California All-State Music Education Conference (CASMEC)
The 2025 CASMEC featured dozens of music education workshops taught by leaders from across the state. These included topics relating to students from early elementary to high school and covering subjects such as general music, ensembles (orchestras, bands, choirs, and more), multicultural music, and many more. In addition, the conference always gives ensembles of all ages a chance to perform for music educators, ranging from elementary music groups to honor ensembles such as the All-State Honor Choirs, Bands, and Orchestras.
While attending CASMEC, I enjoyed conversations with other colleagues who teach music throughout the state, attending workshops about vocal development, and middle school learners, and watching a Burke's student sing in the All-State Jr. High Honor Choir.
One of the most advantageous workshops was entitled "7 Essentials for Developing Voices in Choir" (see attachment link), which was not only expertly presented by Dr. Francis Cathlina of the University of Memphis, but gave purposeful activities for teaching young singers backed by sound vocal pedagogy.
It was a privilege to attend CASMEC this year after being out of California for the past six years, and I look forward to attending again in the future as well as seeing more Burke's students singing in the California All-State Honor Choirs!