Pictures from the 2025 ABA Convention, February 26 – March 2, Chattanooga, TN
The American Bandmasters Association, founded in 1929, with John Philip Sousa as Honorary Life President, recognizes outstanding achievement on the part of Concert Band conductors and composers. The current membership (invitational) comprises approximately 300 band conductors and composers in the USA and Canada, and 80 Associate Members (music businesses and corporations that provide significant services to bands and to the publication of band music.)
A Message from the President . . .
Greetings from Northern Virginia where fall is starting to be colorful and cool. I hope this finds each of you well and enjoying life.
As a young band director, I attended state conferences, the Midwest Clinic, and every other opportunity to listen to experienced band directors present clinics and concerts. I learned many things about what to do and some about what not to do. I still enjoy attending such events, but I am now privileged to get to participate in the single best band clinic ever created, the annual American Bandmasters Association Convention. There are other fine band directors across the country, but there is simply not a more concentrated collection of experience and success as is represented in the ABA. I learn something from every conversation: new music to explore, ideas for funding programs or retaining students or about the truly wide variety of types of situations that produce great bands. I learn personal information that always reminds me that we are in the people business. I’m reminded that all of us do this a little differently because great band directors come in every shape, size and flavor. The constants are the pursuit of excellence and a willingness to share. I am always challenged to continue to improve because I am always surrounded by a room full of people who know things I would like to learn.
Please make your plans now to join us for the 2026 version of the American Bandmasters Association Clinic (Convention) In Chicago, Illinois, March 3-8, 2026! In addition to the opportunities to learn and hear great bands, Brian and Megan Covey and the convention team are working hard to provide you with a unique experience. The hotel registration is live on the ABA website. Please go there and register as soon as you can so we can make sure we have adequate rooms available. The convention registration form – a separate registration – will be available online soon. Final details for excursions, banquet and such are being negotiated now. As always, if you are in a position through your organization, a group of members or individually to help financially, that is appreciated. In addition to the convention planning there are efforts under way to expand the information members need in the process of membership nominations, caucus guidelines, new member support, committee outreach and other projects.Enjoy making great music wherever you can!
Roy C. Holder, President
American Bandmasters Association
ABA Associate Members
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