FORTY-NINTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
November 5-7, 2009
Converse College, Spartanburg
Robert Weirich, Conference artist and clinician
Robert Weirich has performed in musical centers throughout the United States, including Alice Tully Hall, the Kennedy Center, Chicago's Orchestra Hall, and at such summer festivals as Tanglewood, Ravinia and Marlboro. Since 2004 he has been the convention artist for the Music Teachers National Association state organizations in Massachusetts, North Carolina, California, Arkansas, and Indiana. His first solo CD, Piano Music of Aaron Copland, was released in 2008; the New York Times called his performances "brilliant, probing and austerely beautiful." He has held the Jack Strandberg Missouri Endowed Chair at the UMKC Conservatory since 1998. He is justifiably proud of his students, who regularly win major competitions, hold university positions throughout the country, and challenge him on a daily basis in the studio.
Dennis Alexander, Conference clinician
Since his affiliation with Alfred Publishing Company in 1986 as a composer and clinician, Dennis Alexander has earned an international reputation as one of North America's most prolific and popular composers of educational piano music for students at all levels. Professor Alexander retired from his position at the University of Montana in May 1996 where he taught piano and piano pedagogy for 24 years. Upon moving to California, he has taught privately in addition to serving on the faculties of Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Northridge. He currently lives in Albuquerque, NM where he maintains an active composing and touring schedule for Alfred Publishing Company.
Plus….
- World Premiere of 2009 SCMTA Commissioned Composition
- Teachers' Panel Discussion
- Recital featuring faculty and students of Converse College
- MTNA Performance Competitions
- Alfred Product Showcase