ACSMA gathers to improve the student musician
From the Allegany County School Music Association,
ALLEGANY COUNTY, NY – Music educators from across Allegany County came together on Friday, October 9, for an engaging and productive Professional Development Day sponsored by the Allegany County School Music Association (ACSMA), in collaboration with Cattaraugus-Allegany BOCES (CABOCES).
The day provided a valuable opportunity for music teachers to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas, explore instructional resources, and strengthen their teaching practices. Each session was thoughtfully designed to address areas of high interest and professional need, with a shared goal of improving music instruction and meeting the diverse learning needs of students throughout Allegany County.
The program began with a keynote presentation by Bill Fancher, followed by a session led by Cece Fuoco focusing on BOCES Library resources and the Portrait of a Graduate initiative, highlighting connections to music education.
Throughout the day, educators participated in specialized sessions tailored to their instructional areas, including instrumental music, choral music, and K–8 general music.
Band and choral educators explored the unique opportunities and challenges of building successful music ensembles in rural school districts. Collaborative roundtable discussions encouraged teachers to share repertoire, scheduling strategies, instructional approaches, and practical solutions. Additional sessions focused on selecting appropriate NYSSMA solo literature, preparing students for solo festivals and the All-State process, basic instrument repair and maintenance, and percussion techniques.
Choral educators also explored strategies for strengthening vocal programs through repertoire selection, sight-reading instruction, and the S-Cubed program. A session on project-based learning demonstrated how middle school students can develop musical skills and creativity through the process of producing their own music albums.
General music educators participated in hands-on sessions exploring MusicPlayOnline and Quaver Music, two digital curriculum platforms offering engaging instructional resources for elementary and middle school music classrooms. Additional collaborative sessions provided opportunities to exchange successful lesson ideas, teaching strategies, and curriculum resources that teachers could immediately bring back to their own classrooms.
One of the most valuable aspects of the day was the opportunity for professional collaboration. Teaching music in rural school districts presents unique challenges, and having dedicated time to learn from colleagues, share experiences, and discover new approaches is especially meaningful.
Professional development is an essential part of effective teaching. As music educators continue to grow, explore new resources, and refine their instructional practices, it is ultimately their students who benefit. The knowledge, strategies, and connections gained throughout this day will help strengthen music education programs and provide meaningful musical experiences for students across Allegany County.
A tremendous THANK YOU to Megan Tackentein, President of ACSMA, for spearheading the planning and coordination of this outstanding day in collaboration with CABOCES. Her leadership, dedication, and commitment to supporting music educators were instrumental in bringing together a professional development experience that was both relevant and valuable.
Appreciation is also extended to the presenters, session facilitators, CABOCES personnel, and all participating music educators who contributed their expertise, ideas, and enthusiasm.
The success of this Professional Development Day serves as a wonderful reminder of the importance of collaboration, continued learning, and the shared commitment of Allegany County’s music teachers to providing high-quality music education for every student.
When music educators learn and grow together, their students—and their school communities—reap the benefits.
