As the pace of the school year gives way to the free rhythm of summer, it presents a much-needed time for rest and a valuable opportunity for intentional professional growth. Whether through workshops, reading, collaboration with colleagues, or personal musical study, investing in your own growth ultimately enriches the experience you provide for your students. By dedicating time to learning and being inspired, you return to the classroom renewed, equipped, and ready to continue fostering excellence in your choral program.
While there are a variety of resources for professional development over the summer months, one has been incredibly impactful for me over the years. The Summer Conference, hosted by the Alabama chapter of the American Choral Directors Association, is a two-and-a-half-day event held every July. This year’s conference will be July 12th-14th at the University of Alabama. Participants attend sessions by nationally known guest clinicians, choral reading sessions, and concerts. Not only is it a great way to learn, but it is a wonderful way to connect and network with choral colleagues across the state. See the Alabama ACDA website for more information and to register.
All-State
For the first time since 2019, the 2026 All-State Choir Festival was held at Samford University. This was a positive move for our organization on many fronts. Thank you for your patience and support in making the 2026 festival a success. Each choir presented outstanding and passionate performances led by wonderfully energetic and engaging clinicians. Thank you to the AVA directors who served in every capacity, from site and choir coordinators to rehearsal monitors. It takes all of us to “make it happen,” and you all get it done every year.
The 2027 All-State Festival will be held March 11-13, 2027, at Samford University in Birmingham. Information pertaining to clinicians and repertoire will be made available on the AVA website toward the end of the Summer.
All-State Show Choir
The 2026 All-State Show Choir Festival, coordinated by Cameron Johnson, was held at Spain Park High School March 26th-28th. 52 students representing 15 schools participated in the choir and, as always, it was a memorable weekend of dancing, singing, and friendship. In addition to the choir performance on Saturday evening, there was a performance by the AVA OCS winner. Thank you to Martez Tidwell, director at Spain Park High School, for hosting the festival again this year. The dates and location for the 2027 ASSC Festival will be released later in the Summer.
Summer Board Meeting
The annual AVA Summer Board Meeting will be held June 14-17 at Hartselle High School. During this time we will reflect on the past year and look ahead to another successful year at the district and state levels. This year’s meeting will be largely focused on revising the AVA Handbook. The handbook, including its clearly defined bylaws and standing rules, serves as the foundation for the effective operation of our organization, ensuring consistency, accountability, and continuity in leadership and decision-making. If there is anything in the handbook that you would like the board to review or update, please fill out the AVA Teacher Survey. You can also use this form to give us important feedback on the other events. Your feedback is crucial to our organization’s future growth and success. We look forward to hearing from you!
Last thoughts…
In my first Ala Breve article, I expressed my intent as President: to listen, to act, and to support. Serving in this role has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to support and represent the outstanding choral educators across the state of Alabama. I have been continually inspired by your dedication, artistry, and commitment to your students and communities. I have also developed a deep and abiding trust in this organization and in the strength, integrity, and vision of its leadership—both present and future—which gives me great confidence in the continued growth and success of our work. It has been a privilege to collaborate with such passionate professionals, and I am proud of the meaningful connections we have strengthened together in advancing choral excellence. Thank you for the trust you have placed in me—it has truly been a joy to serve you.