NCMEA Professional Development Conference
November 07, 2026 - November 10, 2026
Benton Convention Center
Winston-Salem, NC
The Future Sounds Like This invites music educators to explore how today’s teaching shapes tomorrow’s musicians, creators, and listeners. Through innovative pedagogy, emerging technologies, and evolving classroom practices, the conference examines where music education is headed and how educators can lead that change with purpose and creativity. Sessions will highlight student-centered approaches that foster musical excellence, cultural relevance, and lifelong engagement. Together, we will imagine—and actively build—a future in which music education empowers every student to find their voice and contribute meaningfully to the world through sound.
Clinic Details
Saturday, November 7, 2026
The Sound of Home: Spotlight on North Carolina Composers
Andy Beck
5:00 PM — 5:50 PM
BCC Winston Ballroom 1 A-B
From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, North Carolina is home to some of the most influential choral composers in the industry today. Join Andy Beck (a Tar Heel himself) for a celebration of local artistry in this session featuring repertoire written exclusively by your Old North State neighbors. Explore a variety of voicings and styles, ranging from accessible "quick-learns" to sophisticated festival selections. Along the way, we'll share practical rehearsal strategies and programming tips to help you bring these homegrown North Carolina voices to your singers.
Monday, November 9, 2026
Middle School Momentum: Music for Developing Voices
Andy Beck
11:00 AM — 11:50 AM
BCC Winston Ballroom 3 A-B
Looking for choral music that will engage your middle school singers and is also pedagogically appropriate? This reading session highlights new repertoire designed specifically for developing and changing voices. Sing through new selections, explore strategies for choosing literature that fits your students right now, and find ways to balance fun with growth. You'll leave with fresh programming ideas, practical teaching tips, and renewed confidence. A complimentary music packet will be provided.
What a Song Can Do: New 2-Part Choral Rep
Andy Beck
2:00 PM — 2:50 PM
BCC Piedmont Hall 1 & 2
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 the 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.