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guest Why I Love to Go to the


State Music Conference Connie Kramer, Retired Music Educator


“It’s not who you are – It’s who you hang around with!”


And that in a nut- shell is the reason I go to conference. The quote is from my husband Bill, (aka – the “phantom


of the forest”) who very few of you have seen, yet when I thought of putting down my ideas about the state music confer- ence, this often-mentioned quote came to mind.


My first “convention” was January of 1972 and I returned to my small band


program in tears. I could not make the connection to what I learned there with what I had here. But I did not give up, because I knew there had to be a link that all in attendance experienced. In 40 years I have not missed a single conference. I have been away working with high school state honors and middle level state honors, but always found a way to find some time for conference.


I have to defend my attendance to the “phantom of the forest” just about every year, and that just makes me want to go more. Being with people that share your passion is addicting. Yes, I am hooked! Every year is different, and that is a thrill.


of Fond du Lac


Music Department offering the following degrees: BA --Music


with emphasis in Performance Jazz Studies


Liturgical Music BS -- Music Administration


Contact Dr. David Thompson (920) 923-8108


david.thompson@marianuniversity.edu 45 S. National Ave., Fond du Lac, WI 54935


It is the greatest feeling in the world to be at a session with a famous presenter and hear them give a suggestion or an idea, and you think, “Hey, I do that too!”


Thinking that you may have something to offer is the next step to really feel- ing connected to music in our state. Don’t be afraid to contact your WMEA


42


It is a daunting task for WMEA to find just the right session programming to fit everyone’s needs (a year-long effort). There have been years that I have looked at the program and could not find any session I wanted to attend. So, I just walked in on something new and left with a great idea. My goal every year is to leave with at least one new idea or future project.


I have been locked out of a session and sat with a colleague just talking about our situations and left with a new idea. I have met vendors in the exhibits that have helped guide me through challeng- ing times. I have heard and seen new and old things that changed how I look at what I do.


representative and get your ideas out there – be a part of conference. Finding a solution for others in a similar situation is an extraordinary honor.


If you know me you also know I have a problem. I cannot say the word “NO.” And by saying “yes,” I have found my- self volunteering at the registration table, meeting and greeting everyone who ar- rives. I cannot think of a better way to see and connect with all of you. I really like volunteering at conference and encourage you to do so as well – but just don’t take my job away from me.


I go to conference with my friends and col- leagues and consider it a working vacation. Yes, I spend money, but everyone spends money on vacation, and it’s cheaper than a hunting trip to South Dakota.


The conference is set up for every level. I know that because I have been at every level – beginning teacher, active teacher and retired teacher. I even have a way of telling what level each person is when he or she walks through the conference. When you see me at conference I will let you in on this secret. Say “Hi” to me at the 2011 Wisconsin State Music Conference and receive a special gift.


The quality and intensity of the program- ming included in each Wisconsin State Music Conference far outweighs any reasons for not attending. I am a better person because of the people I get to “hang” out with. I hope that includes you, so see you in October, because remem- ber… It’s not who you are – It’s who you hang around with… (And make sure you pre-register).


Connie Kramer is a retired music educator from Lena. Email: cosmokramer15@gmail.com


September 2011


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