Concordia College is pleased to be hosting the Minnesota All-State Band, Jazz Band, and Orchestra camps Aug. 1-5. The camps are sponsored by the Minnesota Music Educators Association (MMEA).
MMEA’s All-State is considered the top program of its kind across the country, developing high school musicians and school music programs.
Students audition for an All-State spot in March. Judges evaluate students on their overall musicianship and technique. Those who are selected will then spend nearly a week on campus learning from world-class conductors. Concordia’s music faculty, professional musicians, and educators from across Minnesota will also serve as section coaches.
“Minnesota’s All-State camp is one-of-a-kind nationally with a week of intense musicianship development,” said Jerri Neddermeyer, MMEA’s executive director. “MMEA believes that the experience these students receive will certainly inspire growth as individuals but, additionally, they will bring leadership and musicianship expertise back to their home ensembles — improving the statewide music education environment.”
“We’re absolutely thrilled to host this prestigious event that perfectly aligns with Concordia College’s deep commitment to music education and nurturing artistic growth,” said Nathaniel Dickey, chair of Concordia College’s music department.
The camp culminates with free, public concerts in Memorial Auditorium on Saturday, Aug. 5. Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Jazz Band perform at 10 a.m. Orchestra will perform at 1 p.m. Livestream concert links, digital program, and All-State student lists can be found at https://mmea.org/all-state-concert-digital-program/.
The All-State campers will perform together again in February during MMEA’s Midwinter Convention at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis. They will be joined by the All-State Choir, whose camp is being held at St. John’s University.
More information can be found at www.mmea.org.