As we all know, the rigors of being a music educator in today’s school climate can be an overwhelming and particularly demanding experience. As we prepare for concerts, band reviews, musicals, choral and orchestral events, and all of the activities that enrich the musical lives of our students, it is not uncommon for us to disconnect with colleagues and friends who share similar classroom experiences.

Unlike other subject areas that have multiple faculty members on campus collaborating with one another, a single music educator is often given the responsibility of serving as band director, choir director, orchestra director, and is called upon to organize any function involving music. Elementary and middle school music teachers may have an itinerant schedule that requires travel between three or more schools. These expectations can result in a feeling of isolation from fellow faculty members, who often don’t realize the magnitude of a music teacher’s responsibilities.

One of the best ways for us to thrive under the demands of our jobs is to network with our music colleagues at festivals and conferences. Our jobs become much more rewarding knowing there is a support system of people who share the same joys and frustrations that teaching music can bring. The 2008 Bay Section Winter Conference held on January 11 and 12 at San Jose State University offers us the opportunity to meet and learn from outstanding music educators from both the local and national levels.

In addition to all of the great sessions you’ve been reading about in this issue of Tempo, I’m pleased to announce that Glenn Roberts, of Best Music Company in Oakland will once again be providing his delectable tasting of fine wines for our Wine and Hors D’ourves Reception Friday evening from 5:30–7:00.

This year’s conference promises to be a rewarding experience for all of our attendees and will provide us with new tools and techniques for us to bring back to our classrooms. We are also offering a fifty percent discount on conference fees for first time attendees, so all teachers new to music education are encouraged to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. See you at the conference!