Choral Caffeine: Getting to the Conference

Given that the first of ACDA’s seven Divisional Conferences kicks off next week in Madison, Wisconsin, it seems a good time to share a few helpful hints for those journeying to one of these grand events.  (You ARE planning to attend your ACDA Divisional Conference, aren’t you? You can still register.)

 

To help with some of the financial concerns, ACDA has provided a detailed discussion for seeking funding from your school or church.  There is also a sample letter available to help you reach out to your superiors.

 

The Choral Journal article “Money, Motels, Music and More: A Convention Primer” has a few additional helpful hints for those who might be new to the Conference environment:

 

<> Arrive well-rested. We don’t get much sleep at ACDA Conferences.

 

<> Don’t be shy about reading those name tags.  You could be sharing the elevator with Eric Whitacre or Tim Sharp.

 

<> Arrive early for concerts. They’re usually packed.

 

<> Attend EVERYTHING!  An ACDA conference is not the time to nap or shop.

 

<> PLEASE visit with exhibitors. They are our industry partners in the choral arts (and save some room in your luggage for all the stuff you will buy in the exhibit area).

 

ACDA Conferences are exhilarating, overwhelming, and exhausting . . . they are absolutely the crown jewels of ACDA activities.

 

(Next week in Choral Caffeine, we’ll discuss ways to focus our listening to get the most out of those fabulous conference concerts.)