St. Louis recap

For those who did not attend the NAfME conference in St. Louis, here is a brief recap: 

1. Matthew Thibeault was acclaimed as Chair-Elect. Congratulations Matt! 

2. The PSRIG had two well-attended sessions: “Bennett Reimer Remembered” and “Philosophy, Music, and the Common Core.” John Richmond and Peter Webster spoke elegantly and beautifully in remembrance of Bennett Reimer and Martina Vasil provided a touching clarinet rendition of Ravel’s Piece en forme de Habanera, a selection for which Bennett Reimer was listed as clarinet soloist on a 1955 tape from his days at University of Illinois. In the Common Core session, Lauren Richerme, Cathy Benedict, and Carlos Rodriguez provided contrasting, thought-provoking perspectives on education in an age of standards, assessment, and accountability. 


It has been an honor to serve the Philosophy SRIG the past two years. As we know, philosophy—and the humanities generally—seems to be less and less fashionable in education these days. It is my hope that more people in the profession will embrace philosophy—“thinking,” as Hannah Arendt would say—as an integral part of every conversation about music learning and teaching. Membership in the SRIG is important. Philosophy is not some esoteric, “impractical” exercise antithetical to music education; it is (or should be) central to everything we do. 

Although my official term concludes June 30th, the conference usually marks the traditional passing of the gavel. This will likely mark my final correspondence on behalf of the PSRIG. Please join me in welcoming Joe Abramo (joseph.abramo@uconn.edu) in his new role as Chair. 

Best wishes for the rest of the term. I look forward to seeing many of you in Germany for ISPME. 

Roger