President's Welcome

Thomas Wilson twilson@mccsc.edu

Hello and welcome to the 2025-2026 school year! There is always a special kind of energy at the start of a new school year – a mix of excitement, nervousness, and curiosity about what is ahead.  The thrill of fresh beginnings – new students, new music, and new possibilities, is balanced by the weight of unknowns and the high expectations we place on ourselves and our programs.  It is in this space, between anticipation and challenge, that our best work begins.  As band directors, we have the unique opportunity to shape not just the sound of our ensembles, but the lives of the young people we teach.  Whether you’re stepping into your band room for the first year or your thirty-first, the possibilities feel endless (and maybe that is a little overwhelming)!  On behalf of the Indiana Bandmasters Association, here’s to embracing the he highs, pushing through the challenges, and making great music along the way.  I hope that you have a year to remember!

Providing your students with performance opportunities is a key part of the musical growth.  IBA is proud to offer a long-standing tradition of enriching experiences for students across the state.  From All-Region Band and Junior All-State Band (grades 7-9) to All-District and All- State Band (9-12), these events create unforgettable musical moments.  While the start of the year can be very busy, we encourage you to visit the IBA website and join as a member so your students can take advantage of these incredible opportunities. Please reach out to new directors in your area and help them become members!

Please consider volunteering your time to make these events happen for our students.  Opportunities include serving on a selection committee, running sectionals, and attending the concerts to support your students.  Remember you can earn professional development credits for leading sectionals, chaperoning, or attending Junior All State and/or All State Band weekends.  This year, the Junior All-State Band will be under the direction of composer and music educator, Carol Brittin Chambers.  The All-State Band will be under the direction of Dr. Rodney Dorsey from Florida State University.  The All-State Honor Band will be under the direction of Michael Haithcock from the University of Michigan.  I encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity to observe these amazing educators working with our students!

Also, please consider attending our two meetings during the school year.  One takes place in Fort Wayne during the annual IMEA convention and the other is during All-State Band weekend on the campus of Purdue University.

I want to thank Jeff Carnall for his service to IBA and look forward to working with him throughout these next two years as Past-President.  Thank you also to our outgoing board members Jim Jones and Catherine Maloney.  Your time spent on the IBA board is much appreciated! Congratulations to Eric Criss in his new role as Vice-President!  Welcome to our new board members Laura VanderHaeghen and Patrick Regan! The amazing Myron Snuffin will continue in his role of Secretary/Treasurer.