TN Musician Vol. 76 No. 2

The Official Publication of the Tennessee Music Education Association 


2022 TMEA 

PRESIDENTIAL 

CANDIDATES 

p. 13 

63RD ANNUAL TMEA 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

CONFERENCE & ALL-STATE 

ENSEMBLES PREVIEW 

p. 20 

VO LU M E 74, NO. 3 

TMEA 2024 

PRESIDENTIAL 

CANDIDATES 

p. 09 

TMEA 2024 

CONFERENCE 

PERFORMING 

ENSEMBLES 

p. 14 

TMEA 2024 

AWARDS 

RECIPIENTS 

p. 26 

VOLUME 76, NO. 2


TABLE OF CONTENTS 2024 VOLUME 76, No. 2 

02 

03 

04 

PROGRAM NOTES 

TMEA Board and Council Directory 

2023-2024 

Tennessee Musician Advertiser Index 

Issue No. 2 

TMEA President’s Message 

Ryan Fisher 

2022 TMEA 

PRESIDENTIAL 

CANDIDATES 

p. 13 

p. 20 

63RD ANNUAL TMEA 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

CONFERENCE & ALL-STATE 

ENSEMBLES PREVIEW 

VO LUME 74, NO. 3 

07 

09 

11 

14 

TMEA 2024 PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES 

J.R. Baker 

Biography and Vision Statement 

Adrian Maclin 


Linzie Mullins 


65TH ANNUAL TMEA CONFERENCE 

TMEA 2024 Conference 

Performing Ensembles 

TMEA 2024 

26 30 

Awards Recipients 

Tennessee Musician is mailed to members four times each year at an annual 

subscription rate of $5.00 (included in dues). 

Non-member subscription rate (includes S&H): $30.00 per school year; 

single copies: $10.00 per issue. 

TMEA BACK THEN 

Tennessee Musician 75th Anniversary 

Editors Feature 

2024 

TENNESSEE MUSIC EDUCATION ASSOCIATION 

PRESIDENTIAL 

CANDIDATES 

Postmaster - Send address changes to: 

Tennessee Musician 

c/o Tennessee Music Education Association 

2441-Q Old Fort Pkwy, #635 

Murfreesboro, TN 37128-4162 

Published by Slate Group: 6024 45th Street, Lubbock, Texas 79407. 

Graphic Design: Nikki Davis. Account Executive: Ian Spector (800-794-5594). 

Non-Profit 501(c)(3) Organization. U.S. Postage Paid at Lubbock, Texas. 

ISSN Number 0400-3332; EIN number 20-3325550. 

Copyright © 2024 Tennessee Music Education Association. Reproduction in any form 

is illegal without the express permission of the editor: Anna Laura Williams, Managing 

Editor & Advertising Manager; anna.laura.williams@tnmea.org. 

Tennessee Music Education Association | www.tnmea.org | 1

TMEA BOARD AND COUNCIL 

tmea executive board 

TMEA Executive Director 

Michael W. Chester 

michael.chester@tnmea.org 

TMEA President 

Ryan Fisher, Ph.D. 

ryan.fisher@tnmea.org 

TMEA President-Elect 

Joel Denton 

leaderslead@yahoo.com 

TMEA Immediate Past-President 

Alexis Yatuzis-Derryberry 

derryberrya@rcschools.net 

TMEA Secretary 

Dian Eddleman 

eddlemandian@gmail.com 

TMEA Communications Manager 

Anna Laura Williams 

anna.laura.williams@tnmea.org 

tmea board of directors 

TMEA State General Music Chair 

Ben Torres 

benjamin.torres@cmcss.net 

TMEA State Choral Chair 

Elicia Curry 

eliciamgcurry@gmail.com 

TMEA State Orchestra Chair 

Cynthia Wright 

cynthia.wright@maryville-schools.org 

TMEA State Band Chair 

Ollie Liddell, Ph.D. 

liddello@scsk12.org 

TMEA State Higher Education Chair 

Lauren Ramey, Ph.D. 

lauren.e.ramey@gmail.com 

TMEA NAfME Collegiate Chair 

Michael Chandler, Ph.D. 

chandlermd@apsu.edu 

TMEA Society for Music Teacher 

Education/Research Chair 

Loneka Wilkinson Battiste, Ph.D. 

lbattis2@utk.edu 

TMEA Advocacy and 

Government Relations Chair 

Christopher Dye, Ed.D. 

christopher.dye@mtsu.edu 

tmea council 

WTGMEA President 

Allen Moody 

amoodyteacher@gmail.com 

WTGMEA President-Elect 

Marie Millikin 

mmillikin@colliervilleschools.org 

WTVMEA President 

Adrian Maclin 

maclinal@scsk12.org 

WTVMEA President-Elect 

Reachel Hudgins 

reachelhudgins@dcchoctaws.net 

WTSBOA President 

Benjamin Martin 

bmartin@huntingdonschools.net 

WTSBOA President-Elect 

Chelsea Subick 

subickc@scsk12.org 

MTGMEA President 

Abbi Miller 

abigail.miller@cityschools.net 

MTGMEA President-Elect 

Christina Stuible 

stuiblec@rcschools.net 

MTVA President 

Lorna Pyka 

lornapyka@yahoo.com 

MTVA President-Elect 

T.J. McLaughlin 

t.j.mclaughlin@sumnerschools.org 

MTSBOA President 

Stacy Jernigan 

stacy.jernigan000@gmail.com 

MTSBOA President-Elect 

Chris Seger 

chris.seger@sumnerschools.org 

ETGMEA President 

Hannah Strong 

hannahstrong@hvocals.com 

ETGMEA President-Elect 

TBA 

ETVA President 

Kristen Wiram 

KristenWi@gmail.com 

ETVA President-Elect 

William Brimer 

william.brimer@knoxschools.org 

ETSBOA President 

Jim Burton 

president@etsboa.org 

ETSBOA President-Elect 

Megan Christian 

presidentelect@etsboa.org 

tmea project chairs 

TMEA Modern Band Education Chair 

Michael Parsons 

mlparsons@briarcrest.com 

TMEA Jazz Education Policy Chair 

Frank Zimmerer, Ed.D. 

frank.zimmerer@mnps.org 

TMEA Tri-M Chair 

Pamela Wilensky 

wilenskypb@scsk12.org 

TMEA Music In Our Schools Month Chair 

Lisa Crunk 

crunkl@bedfordk12tn.net 

TMEA Music Merchants Industry Chair 

Scott Lane 

scott@lanemusic.com 

TMEA Retired Teachers Chair 

Deborah Gouge 

debbie.gouge@ecschools.net 

TMEA Webmaster 

John Womack 

john.womack@tnmea.org 

tmea all-state & conference 

management team 

TN All-State Choral Chair 

Brian Russell, DMA 

brian.russell@tnmea.org 

TN All-State Instrumental Chair 

Carter Noblin 

carter.noblin@tnmea.org 

TN All-State Jazz Band Chair 

Cord Martin 

corderyl.martin@gmail.com 

TN Treble Honor Choir Chair 

Tiffany Barton 

tntreblechoir@gmail.com 

TMEA Conference 

Registration Chair 

Mark Garey 

mgarey86@comcast.net 

TMEA Assistant 

Conference Coordinator 

Debbie Burton 

dlburton98@gmail.com 

TMEA Conference Performing 

Ensembles Choral Chair 

Susan Kelly, DMA 

kellysu@rcschools.net 

TMEA Conference Performing 

Ensembles Instrumental Chair 

Justin Scott 

justin.scott@tcsedu.net 

2 | TENNESSEE MUSICIAN | 2024 | Volume 76, No. 2

TENNESSEE MUSICIAN ADVERTISER INDEX | VOLUME 76, No. 2 


The Official Publication of the 

Tennessee Music Education 

Association 

Inside Front Cover 

University of Memphis Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music 

Center Page 

Bethel University Renaissance 

Inside Back Cover 

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 

Back Cover 

Lee University 

The Tennessee Music Education 

Association (TMEA) was officially 

formed in 1945 as a voluntary, nonprofit 

organization representing 

all phases of music education at all 

school levels. The mission of TMEA 

is to promote the advancement of 

high-quality music education for all. 

Active TMEA membership is open to 

all persons currently teaching music 

and others with a special interest 

or involvement in music education. 

Collegiate memberships and 

retired memberships are available. 

Additional membership information 

is available on the TMEA website: 

www.tnmea.org. 

The Tennessee Musician was 

founded in 1948 with J. Clark Rhodes 

appointed by the TMEA Board of 

Control as inaugural editor. 

Tennessee Musician was preceded 

by an earlier publication, Tennessee 

Music Editors’ Downbeat, which was 

discontinued by the TMEA Board of 

Control at the spring board meeting, 

held in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 

1948. 

All advertising and editorial 

materials should be sent to 

Anna Laura Williams, Managing 

Editor and Advertising Manager; 

anna.laura.williams@tnmea.org; 

615-784-8632. 

10 | East Tennessee State 

University 

12 | Austin Peay State 

University 

13 | Sight-Reading Factory 

17 | University of Tennessee 

Knoxville School of Music 

21 | University of Tennessee 

Martin 

29 | Tri-M Music Honor Society 

27 | Chantilly Belle 

28 | Tennessee Tech University 

School of Music 

29 | Union University 

31 | Carson-Newman University 

32 | Belmont University 

36 | Slate Group 

Advertising information is available 

on the TMEA website: 

https://www.tnmea.org/advertising. 

html. Submit editorial materials by 

e-mail in Microsoft Word format. 

Non-member subscriptions and 

single copy orders can be placed via 

e-mail to the editor. 

Deadlines for advertisement orders 

and editorial materials: 

Issue No. 1 – Deadline: September 15 

(in home delivery: December/January); 

Issue No. 2 – Deadline: November 15 

(in home delivery: January/February); 

Issue No. 3 – Deadline: February 15 

(in home delivery: March/April); 

Issue No. 4 – Deadline: April 15 

(in home delivery: May/June) 

The views and opinions expressed in 

the articles included in the Tennessee 

Musician are those of the authors and 

do not necessarily reflect the official 

policy or position of TMEA, the 

members, the staff, or the advertisers. 


TMEA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 

MUCH LIKE FAMILY GENEALOGY, THE 

LINEAGE OF MUSIC EDUCATORS FORMS 

A TAPESTRY OF INFLUENCE, WOVEN 

WITH THE THREADS OF KNOWLEDGE, 

INSPIRATION, AND DEDICATION. 


University of Memphis 

Musical Genealogy: Bridging the Past to 

Shape the Future of Education 

The exploration of one's family genealogy often serves 

as a journey through time, unraveling the stories and 

connections that shape our identity. Over the holidays, 

I began exploring my genealogy on Ancenstry.com. 

As I traced my lineage through each generation, I was 

enamored by the documents that detailed my family 

members’ military service, various occupations and 

locations, and migration records. Through this process, 

I feel more connected to my family and have more of a 

sense of belonging than before. 

A parallel narrative exists in the world of music education—a 

lineage of mentors and influences that contribute to the 

rich tapestry of musical instruction. Family genealogy 

traces roots through generations, offering a glimpse into 

the interconnectedness of our existence. Similarly, the 

lineage of music educators is a unique ancestral journey—a 

lineage of musical pedagogy and personal inspiration. Our 

musical genealogy is a testament to the interconnectedness 

of the musical world. As we explore the influences that have 

shaped our journey, we find a network of educators who 

have contributed to the growth of our musical identity and 

professional prowess. 

Reflecting on my own musical journey, certain figures 

stand out as what I will refer to as “teacher-fathers” 

and “teacher-mothers”—guiding lights who have left an 

indelible mark on my path. As a member of the high school 

band in Sulphur Spring, Texas, I was growing disillusioned 

by the quality of our program. Though I continued to have 

individual success, the ensembles remained mediocre at 

best and some of the most talented players were leaving 

the program. Cut to my junior year when Lynn Childers 

was named the new head band director. This quirky yet 

inspirational leader immediately set a different tone for 

the program. He transformed our musical landscape, 

challenging me to enhance both my musicianship and 

leadership skills and established a new standard of 

excellence at the school, which motivated me to want to 

walk in his footsteps and become a music educator. 

As an undergraduate student at Lee University, I had 

the privilege of having LuAnn Holden as my teacher and 

advisor. She was the first choral music educator I had seen 

who exerted such passion and energy in every rehearsal 

and lesson she taught. I knew she believed in me and always 

felt challenged and motivated by her constructive and 

encouraging feedback. Beyond the classroom, she evolved 

into a mentor and friend, leaving an enduring impact on my 

understanding of the profound connection between teacher 

and student. Even after graduating from the program, she 

continued to invest in me. As a young teacher, I wanted to 

participate in a summer choral conducting symposium, 

but didn’t have the money to register. After discussing the 

program with her on the phone and mentioning my dilemma 

concerning the expense, I was shocked to receive a check in 

the mail a few days later. Without her help, I don’t feel I would 

have been able to participate in that summer program which 

I credit with allowing me to ultimately gain acceptance into 

the master’s program at the University of North Texas. 

While a master’s conducting student at UNT, I selected 

music education as my cognate. Dr. Warren Henry, music 

education coordinator at the time, was instructor of the 

early childhood music class I registered for. Throughout 

that class, I remember feeling such excitement about the 

content and eager to attend class each time. Dr. Henry not 

only embodied excellence in teaching but also championed 

the value of students' unique teaching experiences and 

perspectives. It was under his guidance that I reconsidered 

my academic trajectory, shifting from a planned DMA in 

conducting to a PhD in Music Education. I was lucky to 

take two more of his classes during my doctoral studies 

and credit him with motivating and mentoring me to have 

my first article published in a peer-reviewed journal. As 

an associate dean in the College of Music, he also modeled 

for me how to balance administrative tasks and teaching 

duties while still mentoring aspiring university professors 

like me. 

Dr. Debbie Rohwer emerged as another influential figure 

during my graduate studies, igniting my passion for 

research. Through her example, she demonstrated the 


delicate art of maintaining a work-life balance while 

excelling in both realms. Dr. Rohwer's mentorship laid the 

foundation for my journey as a researcher, paving the way 

for a holistic approach to music education. Her curiosity 

was contagious and her way of breaking down complex 

statistical concepts through practical application inspired 

me. As I mentor and collaborate with young researchers, I 

attempt to embody my inner-Dr. Rohwer in hopes I will be 

just as inspirational and motivating as she was to me. 

Much like family genealogy, the lineage of music educators 

forms a tapestry of influence, woven with the threads of 

knowledge, inspiration, and dedication. The impact of our 

teacher-fathers and teacher-mothers extends beyond our 

personal growth—it ripples through the students we teach, 

the programs we build, and the legacy we leave in the world of 

music education. In the broader context, this musical lineage 

connects us to a community of practitioners who share a 

commitment to the transformative power of music education. 

Each generation contributes to the narrative, shaping the 

landscape for those who follow. 

The influence of teacher-fathers and teacher-mothers 

extends far beyond the classroom. It becomes a legacy—a 

commitment to excellence that echoes through the halls 

of educational institutions and resonates in the hearts 

of students. As music educators, we inherit not only the 

knowledge and techniques but also the responsibility to 

cultivate the next generation of musicians and educators. 

Through the lens of our musical genealogy, we gain 

insight into the profound impact we can have on future 

generations. The principles instilled by our mentors guide 

our pedagogical approaches, shaping the experiences of our 

students. We become the architects of a legacy, building 

upon the foundations laid by those who came before us. 

Much like family traditions, the lineage of music educators 

strikes a delicate balance between tradition and innovation. 

While we honor the time-tested principles passed down by 

our teacher-fathers and teacher-mothers, we also embrace 

the need for innovation and adaptation. The dynamic 

continuum of music education demands a willingness to 

evolve, integrating contemporary practices and technologies 

into our pedagogy. 

teacher-fathers and teacher-mothers have influenced your 

path. Who were the architects of your musical legacy? How 

have their teachings shaped your approach to education? 

This reflection not only pays homage to your musical and 

pedagogical roots but also informs your role as a custodian of 

the musical legacy for future generations. 

In conclusion, the comparison between family genealogy and 

the lineage of music educators reveals the intricate parallels 

between these two realms. The influences of our teacherfathers 

and teacher-mothers shape not only our individual 

journeys but also contribute to a broader legacy that spans 

generations. 

As stewards of this musical legacy, we bear the responsibility 

of nurturing the growth of our students, fostering a love for 

music, and instilling a commitment to excellence. In my 

final year of teaching at the K-12 level, I remember standing 

in the back of the room of an event where most of my high 

school choir students were in attendance. I suddenly had this 

“aha” moment that each one of them now carries a part of me 

with them. That idea terrified me a bit to think how all of my 

actions and behaviors, good and bad, will impact every student 

I encountered for the remainder of their life and potentially 

impact future generations. What a tremendous responsibility 

we as music educators carry, but what a remarkable privilege 

we have been bestowed to make such an impact. 

By embracing our musical genealogy, we ensure that the 

tapestry of influence continues to weave through the fabric of 

music education, sustaining the timeless tradition of passing 

on knowledge, inspiration, and passion for generations to 

come. 


39th TMEA President 

In my own journey, this balance became evident as I 

transitioned from being a student to a music teacher, choir 

director, music teacher trainer, researcher, and now, an 

administrator. The lessons learned from my teacher-fathers 

and teacher-mothers served as a compass, guiding me 

through the evolving landscape of music education. 

As you navigate your own musical journey, take a moment 

to reflect on your teacher genealogy. Consider how your 


TMEA 2024 PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES 

2024 


PRESIDENTIAL 

CANDIDATES 

J.R. BAKER ADRIAN MACLIN LINZIE MULLINS 

Voting will open to eligible Tennessee Music Education Association 

members starting Monday, April 8, 2024, and will close on 

Friday, April 12, 2024 (11:59 p.m. CDT). 

TMEA members will receive an e-mail containing a unique voting link. 

Please refer to official TMEA e-mails and announcements 

for additional information. 


TMEA Presidential Candidate 

J.R. BAKER 

J.R. BAKER currently serves 

as the Fine Arts Coordinator 

for Robertson County Schools 

where he collaborates with the 

district’s visual and performing 

arts teachers and advocates for 

the arts at the district level. 

Mr. Baker began his career in 

2002 as the band director at 

East Robertson Junior/Senior 

High School in Cross Plains, 

Tennessee. In 2007 he accepted the position as the Director 

of Bands at White House Heritage High School where he 

instructed band students in grades 6-12 until 2021. During 

his time at White House Heritage, Mr. Baker was part of the 

construction planning process of a new building including the 

band room and theater. Through his leadership, the fine arts 

facilities at White House Heritage became a central location for 

the arts in the district, including special events such as county 

honor band, district Pre-Assessment concerts, dance recitals, 

and hosting a Middle Tennessee School Band and Orchestra 

Association Concert Performance Assessment site. Mr. Baker 

was also able to grow the band program at White House 

Heritage which led to the addition of an assistant/middle 

school director position. The band also had consistent success 

on the field and the stage, including several appearances at the 

Tennessee State Concert Festival. 

During his time in the classroom, Mr. Baker also served as 

a Teacher Leader for Robertson County’s 6-12 grade music 

teachers where he planned and facilitated professional 

development activities for teachers. He also served as the 

coordinator for district band events such as honor band, 

marching band exhibition, and Pre-Assessment concerts. 

His work in these roles led to the creation of the Fine Arts 

Coordinator position which he now serves in. Through the 

Fine Arts Coordinator position, Mr. Baker has continued to 

expand opportunities for students and teachers in Robertson 

County and has been able to increase the funding for the arts, 

including district funding for marching band uniforms for 

all schools. 

Originally from Greenbrier, Tennessee, Mr. Baker received 

a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from the 

University of Tennessee at Martin and a Master of Music 

Education degree from Austin Peay State University. Mr. Baker 

was named a Robertson County “Making a Difference” Teacher 

of the Year in 2013 and is a recipient of the Outstanding 

Teacher Award from the Tennessee Governor’s School for 

the Arts. 

Mr. Baker is currently serving as the Vice President/ 

Immediate Past President of MTSBOA and the President of 

the Tennessee Bandmasters Association. Additionally, he 

serves as the MTSBOA Membership Chair and a Mid-State 

Band Auditions Coordinator. Mr. Baker also served several 

years as an ensemble chair for both MTSBOA and TMEA. His 

professional affiliations include Phi Beta Mu, MTSBOA, TBA, 

TMEA, NAfME, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. Mr. Baker lives in 

White House with his wife Mitzi, and three daughters, Calla, 

Constance, and Mallory. 

VISION STATEMENT 

As we stand at the precipice of a dynamic era for music 

education in the state of Tennessee, I envision a future for 

the Tennessee Music Education Association that tackles 

challenges head-on while fostering inclusivity, innovation, 

and excellence in our professional development initiatives, 

particularly the All-State Conference. Addressing the 

multifaceted challenges specific to our conference and 

those reflective of broader issues in music education, I aspire 

to lead TMEA with a vision centered on transformation 

and inclusivity: 

Accessibility and Equity: We will revolutionize accessibility 

by implementing initiatives that alleviate financial barriers. 

Partnering with sponsors and exploring digital attendance 

options will make the conference more accessible to earlycareer 

teachers and educators from rural areas, thus bridging 

the equity gap. 

Flexibility in Scheduling: Understanding the demands of our 

educators, we will restructure the conference schedule to 

accommodate more performances and All-State Ensembles. 

Offering recordings of sessions and flexible attendance options 

will enable teachers to engage fully in the conference while 

managing their classroom responsibilities. 

Relevance and Engagement: Embracing diversity in 

educational needs, we will curate an inclusive program that 

resonates with the varied interests and challenges of music 

educators statewide. Interactive sessions, diverse workshops, 

rehearsal labs, and tailored content will ensure engagement 

across all attendees. 

Balanced Learning Experience: Crafting a dynamic blend of 

traditional lectures, performances, and hands-on workshops 

will cater to diverse learning preferences. This balanced 

approach will allow music educators to absorb knowledge 

effectively and apply innovative techniques in their teaching 

practices. 

Addressing Broader Issues: TMEA will actively confront 

systemic challenges in music education. Initiating dialogues 

on teacher burnout, cultural diversity, technology integration, 

and advocacy will create a platform that empowers educators 

to effect positive change in their classrooms and communities. 

Guiding the future of the Tennessee Music Education 



J.R. BAKER 

Association also involves recognizing the significance of the 

end of our contact with Gaylord Opryland while addressing 

pivotal challenges to maintain and enhance our events' 

excellence. Whether we consider a potential relocation 

or the continuation at Gaylord Opryland our focus must 

remain on elevating the attendee experience and fostering 

an environment that promotes collaboration, learning, and 

artistic expression. Should we explore alternative venues, 

our attention to detail should prioritize finding spaces that 

accommodate our growing community's diverse needs 

especially as it relates to performances, while ensuring 

accessibility for all across the state. This endeavor will require 

strategic planning to navigate potential increased costs and 

protect the association's financial health. Acknowledging 

the conveniences of Gaylord Opryland’s central location, our 

commitment should stand firm in minimizing inconvenience 

for our devoted participants. Upholding attendee engagement 

is paramount, aiming to ensure that any potential transition 

maintains or surpasses the excellence of our past conferences, 

blending familiarity with innovation seamlessly. Throughout 

this process, transparency, inclusive discussions, and thorough 

research will guide our decisions, ensuring that stakeholders 

understand the rationale and collective benefits behind any 

changes. Whether adapting to new surroundings or enhancing 

the current ones, our goal remains rooted in fostering growth, 

collaboration, and excellence within the Tennessee Music 

Education Association, creating an invigorated and enriched 

experience for all involved. 

By fostering an environment of continuous evolution and 

inclusivity, TMEA will propel music education forward, 

empowering educators to meet the needs of an increasingly 

diverse student population. Together, we will ensure that 

the TMEA remains a pivotal resource, not only addressing 

challenges but serving as a beacon of inspiration.


ADRIAN MACLIN 

ADRIAN MACLIN is in his 

eleventh year as director of choirs 

at Cordova High School and 

sixteenth year of teaching. As a 

product of Memphis City Schools, 

Adrian was inspired by his middle 

and high school choral directors 

to become a music educator. 

Adrian is a graduate of Philander 

Smith University, where he 

earned his Bachelor of Arts 

degree in Music with emphasis in 

vocal performance and a minor in piano performance. 

While at Cordova, his groups have performed at the Southern 

Division of the American Choral Directors Association 

conference, the Tennessee Music Education Association 

conference, Carnegie Hall, and in numerous halls throughout 

the country. His ensembles are widely known for their 

inspiring, thought provoking, and moving performances. 

Adrian works hard to not only produce outstanding performing 

ensembles, but he is committed to educating and cultivating 

the total musician and student. Adrian works to cultivate his 

students to allow music to inspire their next chapter in life. In 

addition to Adrian’s work at Cordova, he serves the Memphis- 

Shelby County School district on the Music Leadership team as 

the choral lead. In this role, Adrian works with music content 

leads in professional development planning and presentations, 

opportunities to organize and support team teaching and 

mentoring, and planning of collaborative performances. 

Adrian currently serves as President for the West Tennessee 

Vocal Music Educators Association and has served on the 

board for the Tennessee Chapter of the American Choral 

Director’s Association. Through these roles Adrian hopes he 

fulfills his part to aid in every child having access to a strong 

music education experience. 


As the governing body of music education in the state of 

Tennessee, I believe the mission and vision of the Tennessee 

Music Education Association is to aid in the overall direction 

of progressive music education instruction for teachers 

and administrators that enhances the total development of 

well-rounded student education. The vision of TMEA would 

be to progress the level of music literacy for students, the 

support of quality and meaningful professional development 

for educators, and the support of program health through 

administrative practices both on the school and board level. 

With this vision, all students would have high level access of 

music education in their schools and communities. 

This vision would aid in level growth of programs that start 

on the elementary level connecting with the secondary 

programs of middle/junior to high school. Three areas of focus 

would be: 

• Support of program health with development and 

retention of new to the profession and novice teachers, 

as well as new or struggling programs. TMEA will work 

with directors who have built sustainable programs in 

developing a well-rounded guide to provide to district and 

school level administrators. This guidance will provide 

topics around scheduling of student classes, funding, 

the support of day to day, and best teaching practices of 

instruction delivery. 

• Providing meaningful professional development that 

is practical for our communities and relatable for 

student success. 

• Guidance and support of connecting all grades in 

comprehensive instruction for music literacy for students 

starting at the elementary to the secondary level. 

Adrian has faithfully served his home church of Mount Moriah- 

East Baptist Church for 18 years as the Minister of Music. He 

also serves as the Assistant Artistic Director for the Memphis 

Choral Arts as primary conductor for the Memphis Men’s 

Chorale. Adrian has adjudicated festivals as well as served as 

guest clinician in the Memphis, Louisiana, Florida, Arkansas, 

Mississippi and for the National Baptist Convention Lucie E. 

Campbell Music Workshop. Adrian was recently recognized 

by the Country Music Association Foundation as one of 

their 2020 Music Teachers of Excellence award recipients. 

Adrian has two daughters, Madison and McKenzie, who are 

the apples of his eye. 


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The ETSU Department of Music is fully accredited by 

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10 | TENNESSEE MUSICIAN | 2024 | Volume 76, No. 2 

etsu.edu/music


LINZIE MULLINS 

this year's conference. 

LINZIE MULLINS is extremely 

honored to be a nominee 

for President-Elect of an 

organization that serves music 

educators and students across 

her home state. Her passion for 

quality professional development 

and creating a safe, equitable, 

and positive environment for all 

students is contagious, and she 

looks forward to learning and 

working with her colleagues at 

Linzie Mullins is an Orff Music Specialist at Snowden School, 

where she also currently serves as a Mentor Teacher with 

Memphis-Shelby County Schools and an AOSA Orff Movement 

Teacher Educator. Mullins is a recent recipient of the CMA 

Foundation Music Teachers of Excellence Award (2019 & 

2021) and the TMEA Outstanding Young Music Educator of the 

Year (2019). She currently serves as the WTGMEA secretary 

and the Memphis Chapter of the American Orff Schulwerk 

Association (MCAOSA) vice president. In the past, she has 

served as the State General Music Chair of the Tennessee 

Music Education Association, treasurer of MCAOSA, and 

president of WTGMEA. She has presented several workshops 

including AOSA, TMEA, ArkMEA, MSMEA, and District 

Learning Days for Memphis-Shelby County Schools. Linzie 

earned her undergraduate degree in K-12 Music Education 

from the University of Tennessee at Martin, a master’s degree 

in Instruction and Curriculum Leadership as well as her 

English as a Foreign Language Certificate from The University 

of Memphis, and her Administrator's Certification from 

Christian Brothers University. She also attained Orff Levels 

I, II, III, and Masterclass through the University of Memphis. 

She is a current foster mom, a mom of two sons, Jesse and 

Bentley, and the wife of Ray Mullins, who is also an Orff music 

specialist and member of TMEA. 


The future of TMEA lies not only in the music educators and 

music students, but the entire music community. What would 

our conference look like if we catered to the parents and 

district personnel that come? How can we professionally 

develop our band booster parents, our elementary school 

parents, our PTO presidents, etc.? It would not only allow 

more financial freedom (we know that parents and community 

members are the people who spend money at our conferences 

on t-shirts, food, and hotel rooms), but also an opportunity 

for the community to join forces all over the state. As music 

educators, we love our conference reunion, so how can we 

make that possible for the community members who also 

come? TMEA has such strong programs within our state, but 

we can make it even stronger by partnering with our families 

and supporters by providing them with something as simple 

as a room to sit in together and collaborate and as complex as 

a platform for them to stay in touch and provide professional 

development both virtually and in-person throughout the 

year. Also, filling that hole between elementary school and 

high school by offering performing ensembles for our middle 

school students will allow even more teachers to come to 

our conference and give the students more opportunities to 

make it into an All-State performance ensemble. And lastly, 

adding an Orff performing ensemble for elementary. The 

first schools in our nation to implement the Orff approach 

are in Tennessee, and we should find some way to integrate 

this approach and these teachers into our conference. 

I am a zealous supporter of the arts teachers and music 

programs and would love the opportunity to share TMEA’s 

mission and resources with educators and organizations 

across the state. 


DEPARTMENT OF 

MUSIC 

APSUMusic 

@apsumusic 

APSU Music 

Department 

apsu.edu/music 

931-221-7818 • music@apsu.edu 


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TMEA 2024 CONFERENCE PERFORMING ENSEMBLES 

VANDERBILT CHORALE 

Performance on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. 

Choral music at Vanderbilt University can be traced back to 

1895, when the Vanderbilt Glee Club toured and performed 

throughout the country. The Vanderbilt Chorale was formed 

in 2012 to create an ensemble for students in the Blair 

School of Music (est. 1986) and highly qualified non-music 

majors from other disciplines at Vanderbilt University. The 

Chorale is dedicated to expressive, authentic performance of 

a variety of musical styles, with an emphasis on the music of 

living composers. Performances have ranged from Bach’s St. 

Matthew Passion to David Lang’s Little Match Girl Passion, 

and the ensemble has collaborated with groups such as the 

Clare College Choir (UK) and Roomful of Teeth. A cohort from 

the Chorale, called the “Vanderbilt Choral Scholars” travels 

to the United Kingdom each summer as part of Immersion 

Vanderbilt. This unique experience involves collaboration 

with various youth choirs throughout northern England, as 

well as cathedral choirs in Liverpool and Leeds. The Chorale released its first full-length recording in February of 2018, entitled “Music 

in the Listening Place” (Navona). Gramophone noted that the Chorale “launch into each track with the earnest passion that only 

university music students can innocently and genuinely provide,” while Choir & Organ magazine stated, “eclecticism for its own sake 

is usually dull – done as effectively as this, it’s exhilarating . . . a delight from start to finish.” 

Dr. Tucker Biddlecombe (Ph.D.) is Associate Professor and Director of Choral Activities at 

Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music where he conducts the Vanderbilt Chorale and Glee 

Club. He also serves as coordinator of the Blair-to-Peabody teacher education program, teaching 

courses in conducting and music education. In addition, Dr. Biddlecombe recently concluded his 

seventh season as Director of the Nashville Symphony Chorus, the vocal arm of the Nashville 

Symphony Orchestra. 

Since joining the faculty in 2012, Dr. Biddlecombe has invigorated choral activities at Vanderbilt, 

with a focus on large choral works and music by living composers. Performance highlights have 

included Britten’s War Requiem, Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem, Mozart’s Requiem, Bach’s St. 

Matthew Passion, Haydn’s Creation, Bernstein’s MASS, and multiple collaborations with the 

vocal ensemble Roomful of Teeth. His work with the Nashville Symphony has included chorus 

preparation for many of the repertoire’s most revered masterworks, including Beethoven’s 

Symphony No. 9, Bernstein “Kaddish” Symphony No. 3, Verdi’s Requiem, Mahler’s Symphony No. 

2, and the annual performance of Handel’s Messiah. He has prepared the chorus for multiple recordings including John Harbison’s 

Requiem (rel. 2018, Naxos) and a world-premiere of Gabriela Lena-Frank’s Conquest Requiem to be released in 2024. 

A passionate advocate of music education and a veteran teacher, Dr. Biddlecombe has served as President of the Tennessee Chapter of 

the American Choral Director’s Association (ACDA) and on the Florida ACDA Executive Board. Ensembles under his direction have 

performed at state and regional conventions of ACDA and toured both nationally and internationally. His credits include All-State 

choruses in eight states, and serving as co-conductor of the UCTB (Unchanged, Cambiata, Tenor, Bass) honor choir for the Southern 

Region of ACDA. International engagements include invitations from the United Kingdom and China, including a 2019 residency with 

the Central Conservatory in Beijing. Dr. Biddlecombe is a graduate of SUNY Potsdam and Florida State University, where he completed 

studies in choral conducting and music education with Daniel Gordon and André Thomas, respectively. He resides in Nashville with his 

wife Mary Biddlecombe, Artistic Director of Vanderbilt Youth Choirs. 


UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SINGERS 


The University of Memphis University Singers stands as the 

flagship SATB ensemble in the Choral Area and is led by Dr. 

Francis Cathlina, Director of Choral Activities. Composed 

primarily of undergraduate and graduate students in the School 

of Music, the ensemble welcomes singers from all majors who 

share a passion for choral music. 

The University Singers presents diverse repertoire through 

conceptual programming. Their performances provoke 

thought. With an unwavering commitment to musical 

excellence, the musicians immerse the audience in extramusical 

practices that create a memorable concert experience. 

The UofM University Singers maintains a robust performance 

schedule that empowers its members to grow as choral artists 

and individuals. Invitation into this ensemble is earned 

through an audition. 

Francis Cathlina, D.M.A. (he/him) is a distinguished Vietnamese-American conductor and 

educator, known for his innovative programming that seamlessly weaves choral music with 

narrative. His transformative concert experiences invite audiences into a world where choral 

artistry becomes a powerful storytelling medium. 

A two-time GRAMMY-nominated educator, Dr. Cathlina serves as the Director of Choral Activities 

at the University of Memphis Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music. He provides visionary leadership for 

the Choral Area, oversees the Doctoral and Master’s Choral Conducting program, and conducts the 

University Singers (flagship SATB choir) and Mazi (SSAA choir). 

As a first-generation musician, Dr. Cathlina’s Eastern heritage profoundly shapes his teaching. 

His dedication to collaboration and rigor has earned international recognition, including being 

named a 2023 National Finalist for The American Prize: Dale Warland Award in Choral Conducting 

(College Division). The UofM University Singers, under his direction, have been selected to perform 

at the 2024 Tennessee Music Education Association Conference. Early in his career, the Texas 

Choral Directors Association (TCDA) designated him the “Young Director of Distinction.” 

Dr. Cathlina’s teaching philosophy centers on developing masterful technicians, creative communicators, and responsible citizens. 

His former students successfully lead programs at diverse institutions—universities, public schools, prominent churches, and 

community choirs. Driven by a passion for human connection, he finds great inspiration as an honor choir conductor. Upcoming 

and recent engagements involve the International Mu Phi Convention Chorus, Mississippi All-State Treble Choir, UofM Symphony 

Orchestra, and honor choirs nationwide. 

A recognized authority in vocal pedagogy, Dr. Cathlina's research focuses on choral tone and conducting gesture. He has published 

articles in ACDA’s Choral Journal and has presented over 49 interest sessions across the globe. In 2023, he co-led two Conducting 

Masterclasses in Greece with the University of Macedonia (Thessaloniki) and Ionian University (Corfu). In 2024, he is set to be the 

Choral Headliner for the Alabama Music Educators Association Conference. 

Dr. Cathlina holds a D.M.A. in conducting with a vocal pedagogy cognate from the University of North Texas, an M.M. from Michigan 

State University, and a B.M.E. from Baylor University. Before his doctorate, he taught in Texas public schools, working with elementary 

through high school-age singers. He is deeply grateful for the steadfast support of his husband, family, and friends, who embrace his 

unique blend of Vietnamese culture and Western upbringing. Dr. Cathlina, his husband Kyle, and their fur baby, Coco, proudly call 

Memphis, Tennessee, their home. Website: www.franciscathlina.com 



UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE-KNOXVILLE WIND ENSEMBLE 


The UT Wind Ensemble is the premier wind band of the 

University of Tennessee College of Music, composed of 

the finest wind, brass, and percussion music majors, as 

well as outstanding non-music majors. The UT Wind 

Ensemble is guided by a philosophy seeking to expose its 

students and audiences to the highest quality repertoire 

written or transcribed for wind and percussion instruments 

while supporting music education and adding value to our 

community. The UT Wind Ensemble has appeared at College 

Band Directors National Association Conferences, American 

Bandmasters Association Conventions and numerous 

Tennessee Music Education Association Conferences. The 

Wind Ensemble is also very active in commissioning new 

music and promoting the growth of the wind band repertoire. 

Graduates from the Wind Ensemble hold distinguished 

teaching positions at the elementary, secondary, and collegiate 

levels, as well as holding positions in leading orchestras and military bands around the world. 

Dr. John Zastoupil is the Director of Bands and tenured associate professor of music at the 

University of Tennessee-Knoxville. His responsibilities at UT include conducting the University of 

Tennessee Wind Ensemble, teaching graduate courses in wind studies, guiding the graduate wind 

conducting program, and providing the administrative leadership for all aspects of the University 

of Tennessee’s diverse and historic band program. Since arriving at UT, Zastoupil founded the 

UT Conducting Workshop and the Volunteer Concert Clinic Festival for concert bands. The UT 

Wind Ensemble has regained national recognition being accepted to perform at the 2024 CBDNA 

Southern Division Convention, TMEA Conference, and collaborating with world renowned 

composers on the commissioning and premieres of multiple works for band. Within the newly 

formed College of Music, Dr. Zastoupil serves as the Ensembles and Performance Division Head. 

Zastoupil regularly guest conducts professional and student honor ensembles throughout the 

United States and has conducted abroad in Europe and Asia. Zastoupil’s previous positions include 

Missouri State University (Director of Concert Bands), University of Texas-Arlington and Eastern 

Michigan University (Associate Director of Bands/Director of Athletic Bands). His pedigree 

includes Northwestern University (D.M.A.); University of Michigan (M.M.); Baylor University (B.M.E.); and is a former student of the 

Aspen Music Festival and School. 


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RAVENWOOD HIGH SCHOOL HONORS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA 

Performance on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. 

The Ravenwood High School Orchestra program began in 

2012 under the direction of Allison Cowan (now at Centennial 

High School). Following Allison was Craig Madole (now at 

Vanderbilt University), Cassandra Brosvik (now at Skyridge 

High School in Lehi, Utah), Ross Bader (now with the Nashville 

Symphony), and finally Gary Wilkes. 

Gary is in his 2nd year as the orchestra director of Ravenwood. 

The Orchestra program at Ravenwood consists of two 

orchestras, the Concert Orchestra and the Honors Chamber 

Orchestra. The enrollment for the orchestra program is 

86 members. Students at Ravenwood are encouraged to 

participate in the Fine Arts Curriculum and can choose from 

Orchestra, Band, Visual Arts, Theatre Arts, or Choir. 

The two main feeder schools for Ravenwood are Woodland 

Middle School (Aurora Foster, Orchestra Director) and Sunset Middle School (Erin Murphy, Orchestra Director), two incredible 

teachers. The population of Ravenwood High School is approximately 1,900 students with a student-teacher ratio of 20 to 1. Students at 

Ravenwood are highly encouraged to matriculate beyond high school. The graduation percentage rate of Ravenwood is 95% and we have 

consistently been ranked among the top ten high schools in the State of Tennessee. 

A native Chattanoogan, Gary Wilkes received his Music Education degree from the University 

of Tennessee in Knoxville. Upon graduating, he attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas 

where he received his master’s degree in Conducting and Bassoon Performance. 

His teaching career spans over 45 years beginning in Irving, Texas, as a middle school band director 

and assistant high school band director. After leaving Irving, he went to J. Frank Dobie High School 

as the lead band director. He also assisted with orchestra in this program. 

He eventually moved back to Tennessee where he was named the band director at Red Bank High 

School in Chattanooga. Upon moving back to Chattanooga, he became the director of the 

Chattanooga Youth Symphony. Over the next twenty-seven years, the program grew from one 

orchestra of fifty players to four orchestras with more than 200 in the program. 

He became the orchestra director at the Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences and was 

there until his retirement from Hamilton County in 2020. It was at this time he and his wife moved to Nashville where he was 

coaxed back into teaching with an appointment as the Orchestra Director at Martin Luther King Jr. Academic Magnet School. 

Following MLK, he became the Director of Orchestras at Ravenwood High School in Williamson County. 

His professional affiliations include serving as President of the Tennessee Chapter of the American String Teacher’s Association, 

President of Tennessee Music Education Association, and President of East Tennessee School Band and Orchestra Association. Over 

his forty-seven years of teaching, he has taught in Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. He also feels that he is a very lucky man to 

have been able to teach well over 10,000 students. His proudest accomplishment is his three children, two stepdaughters and two 

grandchildren and he feels fortunate to be married to the love of his life, Lisa. 



HUME-FOGG ACADEMIC HIGH SCHOOL WIND ENSEMBLE 

Performance on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. 

Tennessee Bandmasters Association Hall of Fame Concert & Awards Ceremony 

The Hume-Fogg Academic High School Wind Ensemble is 

an advanced-level instrumental performance course focused 

on improving members' overall musicianship through the 

recognition of the nuanced interplay between technical 

skills, artistic interpretation and representation, and socialemotional 

development. Our goal is to present concerts 

that enlighten, educate, and entertain our audience while 

also providing an artistic outlet for the talented musicians 

comprising the wind ensemble that builds in them an even 

greater love of music. The musicians, representing the richly 

diverse and thriving communities across Davidson County, 

include some of the finest woodwind, brass, and percussion 

high school musicians in our area. Membership is by audition 

and is open to 9th-12th grades. 

At Hume-Fogg, our students are dedicated not only to quality 

in the music room, but also in the core content classroom and extended community. Several have a perfect score of 36 on their ACT; some 

are National Merit Semifinalists; and, many earn admission to the nation's top universities. Our students are successful in athletics, 

active in academic and social clubs and other arts programs both in school and the community, HFA musical theater, the Curb Youth 

Symphony, Tennessee Youth Symphony, and the Nashville Youth Jazz Ensemble, to name a few. And perhaps best of all, they do this 

while demonstrating a genuine spirit of kindness and collegiality, exemplifying fully the “Blue Knights Be Kind” school mantra. 

The HFA Wind Ensemble is dedicated to producing the highest quality of music possible and playing the finest wind band literature, 

from the repertoire's cornerstones to newly composed works. Because of this, the Wind Ensemble has a long tradition of excellence, 

consistently earning superior ratings for concert performance assessment. And, the program continues to have large numbers 

represented in the Mid-State bands, Mid-State Symphony, Mid-State Percussion Ensemble, and the Mid-State Jazz band. Students are 

represented in both All-State bands and the All-State symphony, and select members have performed for the Tennessee Bandmasters 

Association Honors Recital. 

C. Allen Kennedy is the Director of Bands at Hume-Fogg Academic High School where he 

conducts the Wind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble, co-conducts the Concert 

Band and Commercial Music Ensemble, and teaches AP Music Theory. Prior to this appointment, 

Kennedy served as the Associate Director of Bands and Director of the Big Red Marching Band at 

Western Kentucky University. His teaching career also includes serving as the Assistant Director of 

Bands at Middle Tennessee State University and Director of Bands at Logan County High 

School in Kentucky. In 2016, Kennedy served as the guest conductor of the Friendship Music 

Honors Band and Orchestra Clinic in Guizhou, China. Kennedy also served as a guest conductor 

and adjudicator for the 2016 and 2017 Competencia Nacional de Bandas “Corazón Verde” in 

Cartago, Costa Rica. In 2016, Kennedy recorded Angel of Mercy on the Naxos label in collaboration 

with composer-in-residence David Maslanka and the Middle Tennessee State University Wind 

Ensemble. 

Kennedy earned a Bachelor of Music Education Degree from Western Kentucky University, a 

Master of Music in Wind Band Conducting from Middle Tennessee State University, and an Education Specialist Graduate Degree 

in Accountability and Instructional Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University. He is currently completing his Doctorate of 

Education in Administrative Leadership from Trevecca. Kennedy studied wind band conducting with Dr. Mallory Thompson through 

the Northwestern University Conducting and Wind Music Symposium. Kennedy's professional affiliations include being an honorary 

member of the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Music Fraternity, a member of ASBDA, TBA, MTSBOA, and TMEA. 


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The University of Tennessee is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/ Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution in the provision of its education and employment programs and services. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, 

age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status. Inquiries should be directed to the Office of Equity and Diversity (OED), 303 Administration Building, Martin, TN 38238, (731) 881-3505 Office, (731) 881-4889 TTY, Hearing Impaired, (731) 881-3507 Fax, equityanddiversity@utm.edu, http://www.utm.edu/departments/equalopp/. In compliance with the 

Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (The Clery Act), UTM’s annual security report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on or around the campus and UTM’s emergency response and evacuation procedures. You can view the report at http://www.utm.edu/departments/ 

publicsafety/_pdfs/annual security report 2014 adobe.pdf or you may obtain a paper copy of the report by contacting the Office of Public Safety, 215 Hurt Street, Martin, TN 38238 or calling (731) 881-7777. Data on intercollegiate athletics program participation rates and financial support may be found at http://www.utm.edu/about/consumer.php#3g and printed 

copies may be obtained through the Office of Intercollegiate Athletics, 1022 Elam Center, Martin, TN 38238 or by calling (731) 881-7660. E05-5220-00-008-23 



THOMPSON'S STATION MIDDLE SCHOOL JAZZ BAND 

Performance on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. 

Thompson’s Station Middle School Jazz Band is the premiere 

instrumental ensemble of the Thompson’s Station Middle 

School Band Program. Currently in its sixth year, the Jazz Band 

program includes both 7th and 8th grade musicians who elect 

to participate during the school day. These young musicians 

have been captivating audiences and judges with their 

extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to their craft. 

The TSMS Band Program consistently produces MTSBOA 

Mid-State Honor Band and MTSBOA Mid-State Jazz Honor 

Band members. In addition to annually achieving superior 

ratings at Performance Festivals, the TSMS Jazz Band has been 

featured at Pilgrimage Festival in Franklin, Tennessee, as well 

as the Main Street Festival in downtown Franklin, Tennessee. 

The talented TSMS Jazz students frequently perform at local 

events and fundraisers, bringing the joy of jazz and funk to 

a wider audience and exemplifying the positive impact that music can have on individuals and communities alike. The Thompson’s 

Station Middle School Jazz Band Program is honored to perform at the 65th Annual Tennessee Music Education Association 

Conference. 

Christopher Colalillo is a passionate advocate for music education, an exceptional performer, 

and an esteemed teacher that has been instrumental in shaping Jazz in Williamson County TN 

Schools. As the founder of the WCS Jazz Honors Band, he has left an incredible mark on the 

lives of countless middle school and high school students, instilling a love for music in them 

that will last a lifetime. 

Born and raised in Northern New Jersey, Christopher Colalillo’s journey into the world of music 

began at a young age, starting piano in third grade. It was during his middle school years that he 

picked up a trumpet and realized his true passion for music and teaching. His fascination with 

various instruments includes trumpet, tuba, piano, guitar and drums, which led him on a lifelong 

quest to share his love for music with others. 

Christopher Colalillo's commitment to his craft took him to William Paterson University (WPU), 

where he majored in Music Education and focused on tuba and piano. His time at WPU and being a 

musician in the NYC Area not only equipped him with musical proficiency, but also embedded a deep appreciation for the importance of 

both education and performance skills. 

Driven by a desire to foster the next generation of well-rounded youth and young musicians, Christopher founded the WCS Jazz Honors 

Band in Williamson County. This ensemble has become a symbol of excellence and dedication, a place where talented middle school 

and high school students come together to explore the world of jazz under his guidance along with other music clinicians. The band 

has garnered numerous awards and accolades, showcasing Mr. Colalillo’s dedication to nurturing young talent. 

Beyond his role as an educator, Christopher Colalillo is an accomplished performer in the Greater Nashville Area. His passion for 

performing is not only a testament to his love for the art but also serves as an inspiration to his students, encouraging them to strive for 

greatness in their own musical journeys. 


CLARKSVILLE CHILDREN'S CHORUS 


The Clarksville Children’s Chorus was founded in 2022 and 

comprises 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade students from public, 

private, parochial, home school, and military school settings 

who represent the diverse population of the Clarksville- 

Montgomery County and Fort Campbell areas. Weekly 

rehearsals take place on the campus of Austin Peay State 

University (APSU) under the umbrella of APSU’s Community 

School of the Arts (CSA). Students are accepted into the choir 

following a brief vocal audition and interview, and many of 

the students’ tuition is partially or fully funded by a generous 

grant from APSU’s Center for Excellence for the Creative Arts 

(CECA). The choir explores age-appropriate and diverse 

choral repertoire through artistry and music literacy. 

The Clarksville Children’s Chorus is directed by Dr. Michael 

Chandler, APSU’s Coordinator of Music Education. The Part 

I and Part II section leaders are Ms. Morgan Sharp, music specialist at Pisgah Elementary in the Clarksville-Montgomery County 

School System (CMCSS) and Ms. Lauren López Ochoa, graduate student in music education at APSU. Since its beginning, the CCC has 

collaborated with choirs from APSU, Rossview High School (CMCSS), and with the Clarksville Youth Orchestra (CYO). 

Dr. Michael Chandler is an Assistant Professor of Music and Coordinator of Music Education 

at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee, where he teaches graduate and 

undergraduate courses in music education and supervises student teachers. Dr. Chandler taught 

elementary general music in Texas public schools for 16 years, during which time his student groups 

performed as invited ensembles at the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) conference in 

2013, 2007, and 2005. He was a collaborative pianist for the Children’s Chorus of Greater Dallas 

for 10 years and is the current founding conductor of the Clarksville Children’s Chorus. He 

teaches all three levels of Orff Schulwerk basic and recorder during summers in AOSA-approved 

teacher education courses at the University of Memphis, Southern Methodist University (Dallas), 

and in the San Francisco International Orff Course. His work has appeared in The Southwestern 

Musician, Update: Applications of Research in Music Education, The Orff Echo, and Orff-Schulwerk 

International. 



RAVENWOOD HIGH SCHOOL HONORS CHAMBER CHOIR 


Ravenwood High School Honors Chamber Choir is one of four 

curricular choirs at RHS from a choir program encompassing 

130+ singers. The mission of Ravenwood Choirs is to create 

lifelong, musically-literate learners who have an understanding 

of diverse music from all genres and cultures, a foundation 

of music theory and history, and a skillset for healthy vocal 

production as a basis for a lifetime of singing. Above all, 

RHS Choirs aims to inspire a love for music in communities 

and a desire for excellence at all times. Ravenwood Choirs 

consistently receives the highest scores from every judge in 

every category at district, state, and national competitions. 

Additionally, Ravenwood Choirs regularly has the most 

students make Mid-State, All-State, Regional ACDA, National 

ACDA, and Solo and Ensemble Superiors in the district. 

Furthermore, Ravenwood was the only school in the state to 

have all four of its choirs earn Superior ratings at both District 

and State CPA in both Performance and Sight-Reading, with the two auditioned ensembles Chorale and Chamber earning perfect 

scores multiple years in a row. RHS Choirs has toured nationally from Dollywood to Disney World, where they recently won a 

Superior rating, Best in Class, and Grand Champions at the national Festival Disney competition. This summer, they are traveling 

to Europe on a five-country tour. 

Their usual concert season consists of four collaborative concerts: a fall showcase, a combined winter concert with RHS Orchestra, 

a combined elementary/middle feeder concert, and a Spring Pops concert, all shows that traditionally sell out. Additionally, 

the students participate in many social and community events and performances throughout the year, including about a dozen 

national anthem performances, tailgates and parades, Christmas caroling, choir exchange programs with schools from all around 

the world (most recently with a choir from London), karaoke and movie nights, many fundraisers, recruitment visits and club fairs, 

volunteer performances for Make-a-Wish, Baccalaureate and Graduation performances, and biweekly leadership meetings in our 

Choir Leadership Program. Alumni of the RHS Choir program earn tens of millions of dollars in college scholarships every year 

and often return to see the performances. The RHS Choir program is open to all students and loves working with students of all 

levels, from top-notch performers to brand-new singers. 

Ravenwood Choirs is very thankful for the opportunity to share the joy of music-making with you today. If you’d like more 

information on RHS Choirs, please visit our website: https://sites.google.com/view/ravenwoodchoirs/ 

Rose Hellmers, a 2023 CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence, is the Director of Choirs 

at Ravenwood High School, where she conducts four choirs that consistently receive the highest 

scores from every judge in every category at district, state, and national competitions. She also 

teaches AP Music Theory, where she has achieved the only 100% pass rate in the district. In the 

past 3 years, she has over doubled the size of the choir program and aims to continue expanding it 

so that all students can experience the joy and magic of choral music-making. Her choir students 

have competed nationally from Dollywood to Disney World and are traveling internationally on a 

five-country tour in 2024. She raises tens of thousands of dollars annually to support RHS Choirs 

through many fundraisers and grants. She also serves as the High School Choir Team Lead, helping 

to oversee and organize the choir teachers in Williamson County. Hellmers is the Faculty Advisor for 

Tri-M Music Honor Society, and she serves as Music Director and Pit Conductor for Ravenwood’s 

musicals, earning Spotlight awards for Best Vocals and Orchestra. 

Outside of Ravenwood, Hellmers serves as the Assistant Conductor of the Nashville Symphony 

Chorus where she has prepared many choral-orchestral works and conducted at the TN-ACDA. She is in demand as a clinician, mentor 

teacher, and presenter. As a soprano, she has performed across the globe, such as in the InterHarmony Music Festival in Italy. Hellmers 

received a full scholarship for her Masters in Music Education and Bachelor of Music from Vanderbilt University. She currently resides 

in Nashville with her husband, Carl and her dog, Judy. 


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finding volunteers, and creating successful events.” 

—Mari D., Tri-M Alumnus 

HONORS 

Recognize the outstanding music students in your school. 

LEADERSHIP 

Empower students with leadership opportunities to lead meetings and organize 

service activities. 

SERVICE 

Showcase your music program and impact your community through 

performances and service projects. 

Tri-M@nafme.org | nafme.org/Tri-M

TMEA 65TH ANNUAL MUSIC EDUCATION CONFERENCE PREVIEW 

Congratulations 

to the 2024 TMEA 

Awards Recipients 

TMEA YOUNG MUSIC EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR 

Rose Hellmers 

Choir Director, Ravenwood High School 

TMEA OUTSTANDING MUSIC TEACHER OF THE YEAR, 

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 

Tammy Holt 

Music Teacher, Briarcrest Christian School 


MIDDLE SCHOOL 

Reggie Coleman 

Band Director, Rocky Fork Middle School 

Purchase e a ticket to attend the TMEA 

Awards Banquet at the 65th Annual 

TMEA Music Education Conference. 

Visit the “TMEA Conference 

Registration” page on the TMEA 

website to register for the conference 

and purchase tickets to the TMEA Awards Banquet: 

https://www.tnmea.org/conference-registration 

TMEA AWARDS BANQUET 

Thursday, April 11, 2024 * 6:30 pm 

Tennessee C 


65TH ANNUAL MUSIC EDUCATION CONFERENCE 

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center 

Nashville, Tennessee 


HIGH SCHOOL 

Stacy Jernigan 

Band Director, Wilson Central High School 

TMEA OUTSTANDING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR, 

MIDDLE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR 

Jennifer Rheinecker 

Principal, Donelson Middle School 

TMEA OUTSTANDING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR, 

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATOR 

Felicia Bates 

Fine Arts Coordinator, Henry County Schools 

Jonathan Kee 

Director of Schools, Huntingdon Special School District 

TMEA SERVICE AWARD 

Jo Ann Hood 

Retired, John Overton High School 

TMEA HALL OF FAME 

Carol Crittenden 

Coordinator of the Arts for Metro-Nashville 

Joe Hermann 

Director Emeritus Tennessee Technological University 


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We offer quantity discounts, easy pay by 

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B.M. IN MUSIC PERFORMANCE 

Composition • Instrumental • Jazz • Multiple Woodwinds • Musical Theatre • Vocal 

B.M. IN MUSIC EDUCATION 

Vocal/General Music - K-12 Licensure • Instrumental/General Music - K-12 Licensure 

B.S. IN MUSIC 

Live Audio Arts and Sciences • Instrumental/Vocal 

MUSIC MINORS 

Music History • Music Performance • Music Technology • Music Theory and Composition • Live Audio Arts and Sciences 

tntech.edu/music 

(931) 372-3161 

music@tntech.edu 

1150 N. Dixie Ave. 

Campus Box 5045 

Cookeville, TN 38505-0001

At Union University, you will develop your musical craft under the training of highly qualified professional 

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Our programs include: 

• Bachelor of Music in Music Education, Performance, Commercial Music, Composition, Worship Leadership 

• Bachelor of Arts/Science in Music 

2023-24 Audition Dates: 

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Friday, October 20, 2023 

Friday, November 10, 2023 

Friday, January 26, 2024 

Friday, February 16, 2024 

Friday, February 23, 2024 

Friday, March 29, 2024 

LEARN MORE AT uu.edu/music


CELEBRATING THE 75TH 

ANNIVERSARY PUBLICATION YEAR 

OF THE TENNESSEE MUSICIAN 

Featuring the TMEA Editors 

In this issue, we continue our celebration of the 75th 

Anniversary publication year of the Tennessee Musician 

by recognizing and honoring our editors throughout time. 

Thank you to our TMEA editors who have upheld the mission 

of the Tennessee Music Education Association through your 

dedicated contributions. We appreciate your work towards 

making this 75th Anniversary publication year possible. 

Additional reading: 

Throughout my Tennessee Musician research, I am continually 

inspired by T. Earl Hinton’s “A Brief History of the Tennessee 

Music Education Association” (1998). TMEA members can 

read his work on the TMEA website: https://www.tnmea.org/ 

history-past-presidents 

The Tennessee Music Education Association (TMEA) 

was officially formed in 1945 as a voluntary, non-profit 

organization representing all phases of music education at 

all school levels. 

The Tennessee Musician was founded in 1948 with J. 

Clark Rhodes appointed by the TMEA Board of Control as 

inaugural editor. 

J. CLARK RHODES 

1st Editor, Tennessee Musician 

Volumes 1-2 

Years of Service: 1948-1950 


Vol. 5, No. 3 

March 1953 

ERWIN H. SCHNEIDER 

2nd Editor, Tennessee Musician 

Volume 3 




December 1953 

VERNON H. TAYLOR 

3rd Editor, Tennessee Musician 





Fall 1951 


Scholarship auditions | music majors & non-majors 

January 13 

Brass, Woodwind, Percussion 

& Strings Audition 

@ Central Baptist Bearden Knoxville 

February 2-3 

Voice & Piano Auditions 

@ Carson-Newman Jefferson City 

February 19 

Voice, Piano, Brass, Woodwind, 

Percussion & Strings Audition 

@ Carson-Newman Jefferson City 

Scan For more 

information

A BIG 

STAGE 

FOR BIG 

DREAMS 

Discover a world where creativity knows no bounds. 

Recognized nationally for innovative programs, high artistic 

standards and stylistic diversity, the College of Music and 

Performing Arts at Belmont University is ranked among 

the best music schools in the country. Whether you’re an 

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community fosters collaboration and individual growth. 

Learn more at BELMONT.EDU/CMPA 

Join us for our 

Learn more about our options for piano, 

guitar, winds, strings, theatre and vocal arts. 

BELMONT.EDU/CMPA/SUMMER-CAMPS


FLOYD H. RODGERS 

4th Editor, Tennessee Musician 





October 1952 (p. 2) 

LARUE V. PRYOR 






March 1958 (p. 10) 

ARTHUR F. KLEIN 







CAROLYN M. SCRUGGS 






October 1958 (p. 10) 

FLOYD D. FUNK 







RUTH W. BRANDON 



Years of Service: 1967 



March 1966 (p. 6) 


Learn more at nafme.org/MIOSM 

#MIOSM | #MusicIsMe


J. CLARK RHODES 

10th Editor (Second Term), 






December 1967 (p. 5) 

MICHAEL COMBS 






March 1998 (p. 4) 

LAWRENCE P. (“PAT”) COONEY 






October 1985 

MARY DAVE BLACKMAN 






Winter 2012 (Cover) 

CYNTHIA R. CURTIS 






May 1986 (p. 7) 

MICHAEL W. CHESTER 






2018 

CARL H. KAUFFMAN 




ANNA LAURA WILLIAMS 


Volumes 73-Present 

Years of Service: 2020-Present 



1994 


you work hard at 

sounding good 

we work hard at 

looking 

good 

SLATE GROUP SUPPORTS 

MUSIC EDUCATION 

THROUGH WHAT WE DO BEST. 

PUBLICATION DESIGN 

PRINT 

DISPLAY GRAPHICS 

CONTACT IAN SPECTOR TODAY 

800.794.5594 | ian@slategroup.com 

slategroup.com

2024 

MUSIC

MUSIC 

Tennessee Music Education Association 

2441-Q Old Fort Pkwy, #635 

Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37128-4162 

MUSIC WITH PURPOSE 

A Christ-centered university in southeast 

Tennessee with faculty, curriculum, facilities, 

and opportunities to prepare you for your 

goals as tomorrow’s musician. 

For more information, please contact us at 

423-614-8240 or music@leeuniversity.edu. 

LEEUNIVERSITY.edu/music

TN Musician Vol. 76 No. 2

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