From the Editor
Tom Donaldson

During my stint as editor, I have read many articles on all aspects of music education. Often I have thought that the same article could have been written by one of my EMEA colleagues. Often I have implored you to write for your publication. You have the experience and expertise to share much with your colleagues. Just do it!

While I’m harping, I’ll also say – get involved in EMEA. There has been a small minority of folks providing great workshops and advocating for you through the years. It’s difficult to find a source of graduate level credit overseas – but EMEA provides two credits a year. It’s time you help. Just read Keith Boelter’s letter on page 3 – and take it to heart.

I’m happy to welcome again Roger Freundlich who was kind enough to share his humor. I apologize to him and to you for a printing error in his article in the last issue. You’ll enjoy his Marginal Encounters on page 4 and please see the errata notice on page 13.

Thomas Trimborn is back with a look at arranger Robert Bennett. Trimborn is not only a musician and writer, he is also a very talented artist. Take a look at his work on page 6 – Missouri’s Man in the Wings.

Have you ever yearned to do a musical with your students? The Middle School Musical, page 10, by Victor Bobetsky, just might help.

Of course, what would the EMEA Journal be without a word from Dr. Tim? If you’ve been keeping up with his series on music advocacy, you’ll not want to miss installment #5 of 6 on page 12.

The October 2002 conference will include sessions for early childhood care givers. To support those sessions I’ve included Gwendolyn McGraw’s Chorus Begins in Kindergarten (page 14) and Kenneth Phillips’ Why Don’t Kids Know How to Sing (page 16).

Are you being pushed to teach subjects in music class other than music? Carl King has articulated that problem very well in his article, Missing the Mark (page 18).

If you’re teaching band at any level, two articles are for you: Trombone Diagnostics (page 20) and Teaching Expression to Young Bands (page 22).

Daron Anderson asked me to reprint his award-winning article about instrument quality. (Really. It first appeared in this journal then later in the MENC publication, Spotlight on Teaching Band, ISBN 1-56545-137-6.) He says this topic is one which he deals with a lot, At the Bench (page 24).

Eric Measells, DoDDS-E Performing Arts Coordinator sends his greetings on page 25. He will also be at the Fall Conference

Last but not least is another reprint because it’s so good and timely as well. If you’re looking for an elementary Thanksgiving song, check out Alanna Griffin-Bales Turkey Song (page 26). She was only in 2nd grade when she wrote it. Be sure to give her credit when you use it. A note to her dad would be appreciated: Lynn_Bales@eu.odedodea.edu

The Spring 2003 EMEA Journal will be my last issue. It is time to let someone else take it to new heights. Joy Morgen would love to hear from you if you are willing to take over the editorship of The Journal. Again, please volunteer to make EMEA a great association for all.