2027 Ohio Music Education Association Professional Development Conference
January 28, 2027 - January 30, 2027
Greater Columbus Convention Center
400 N High St
Columbus, Ohio 43215
USA
Booth Number: 609 & 708
The 2027 OMEA Professional Development Conference will take place in Columbus from 9:30 AM, Thursday, January 28 until 3:00 PM, Saturday, January 30 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center and nearby hotel properties. Traditionally, the OMEA PDC is the third largest music conference in the United States with nearly 300 sessions presented by nationally recognized master teachers demonstrating research-based, best practices in the field of music education.
Clinic Details
Thursday, January 28, 2027
What a Song Can Do: New 2-Part Choral Rep
Andy Beck
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
What can a song do? Build confidence, spark joy, and bring your singers together in powerful ways. In this sing-and-learn reading session, explore new 2-part choral repertoire designed especially for elementary (and emerging middle school) choirs. You'll learn what makes this music effective for young voices, gather practical teaching tips, and explore creative ideas for bringing each piece to life in rehearsal and performance. Come ready to sing, reflect, and be inspired by the impact of a well-chosen song. A complimentary music packet will be provided.
You Can't Teach Empty Chairs
Angela Ammerman
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
In a world where enrollment directly influences job security, ongoing recruiting and retention efforts are a necessity for a healthy orchestra program. Leave the OMEA conference with great resources for generating and maintaining excitement and interest in your program! Discover unique methods for reaching students of all ages, backgrounds, and musical preferences. Unlock your creativity by composing your own Recruiting Concert packed with musical story-telling, audience participation and sonic branding. Leave with a wealth of information regarding recruiting and retention, and gain confidence in your ability to apply these strategies through the experience of planning your own inclusive and Recruiting Concert.
Building the High School Sound
Andy Beck
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Strong high school choirs grow from thoughtful repertoire choices. This choral reading session highlights music and resources created for emerging ensembles: freshman and sophomore groups, smaller programs, or choirs with tight rehearsal schedules. Explore literature that supports vocal development, ensemble building, and musical growth while keeping singers engaged. Sing through selections that meet students where they are and set the foundation for success. A complimentary music packet will be provided.
We Don't Speak the Same Language! Recruiting & Retaining English Language Learners
Angela Ammerman
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Friday, January 29, 2027
Rehearsal Strategies for a Changing World
Angela Ammerman
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Differentiation in the String Classroom: Success for all Students!
Becky Bush
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Addressing the needs of all learners is critical to ensuring success for our beginning students. A variety of strategies will be presented that answer the question, how do I motivate and challenge students that learn at very different rates? Specific repertoire, alternative teaching strategies, teaching materials, and online resources that can facilitate instruction for all students will be presented.
Saturday, January 30, 2027
Engagement and Rehearsal Strategies for Middle School Orchestra
Becky Bush
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Experience specific strategies for elevating your middle school orchestra rehearsals, deepening student engagement, and transforming your podium presence. This clinic will be filled with reminders for experienced teachers and is a must-see for young string teachers.