Wisconsin Consortium for Music Education is Formed

As a result of a first-ever summit meeting held in January 2004, representatives from music associations throughout Wisconsin have taken steps to jointly address key issues affecting music education in the state and nation, and to build a stronger advocacy network.

"This was a historic meeting! Many associations came together to build the bridges needed to focus collective energies on the essential aspects of music education in Wisconsin schools and communities," said Christine Hayes of the Wisconsin Music Educators Association (WMEA).

The associations share a mutual concern over many issues, such as the overall reduction of school music programs and decline in music teacher availability due to continual budget reductions. Other topics of concern include federal mandates in "No Child Left Behind" that limit the amount of time devoted to electives because of the increased time necessary to prepare students for testing in other core curriculum areas.

With these challenging issues facing music education, the group of associations has formed an information-sharing network called the Wisconsin Consortium for Music Education. Click here for contact info. It is focused on advocating for music education while also providing support for music teachers in the field and college students interested in becoming music teachers. Strong points of interest include:

• Recruitment and retention of music teachers
• Connecting new music teachers with mentors throughout the state
• Advocacy training
• Leadership retreats
• Creating an effective network of communication and support

"The study of music is a vital part of every child's complete development," said Hayes. "Through this network, we can share information in ways that help secure and build a future for music education," she said.

Click here to learn more about advocacy for music education.