Michael Beauclerc is a renowned Canadian percussionist, educator, and clinician whose work spans the full spectrum of rhythm, from high-energy drum set performance to precision marching percussion. As the Executive Director of the Canadian Drumline Association and founder of the Mad Music School, Michael is a national leader in percussion education.​Bringing a wealth of real-world experience to the classroom, Michael balances his extensive marching background—including serving as head coach for championship-winning programs that have secured over 20 titles—with deep expertise behind the kit. He is an active touring and session drummer endorsed by industry leaders including Yamaha, Sabian, Vic Firth, and REMO, giving him a unique perspective that bridges the gap between professional gigging and ensemble training.​At the BC Music Educators Conference, Michael leads specialized workshops designed to inspire and equip educators. His sessions focus on practical techniques, ensemble building, and dynamic approaches to both drum set and drumline instruction, empowering teachers to bring comprehensive, world-class rhythm concepts back to the classroom.

Dennis Brougham is an educator and entrepreneur whose current work focuses on practical ways to help music students make better use of independent practice time. He is especially interested in the space between teacher-led instruction and what students actually do when they practise on their own: how they build confidence, recognize notes more quickly, sustain attention, and develop the fluency needed for real musical situations. His work draws on ideas from motor learning, music pedagogy, and educational technology, with an emphasis on tools that complement rather than replace traditional teaching. At the BCMEA conference, Dennis will present “Beyond Blocked Drills,” a clinic for music educators interested in making technical practice more engaging, purposeful, and transferable. The session reflects his broader interest in helping teachers connect familiar instructional goals with practical strategies students can use between lessons, rehearsals, and performances.

Zach Brown, is the technician and product specialist for Yamaha Artist Services Toronto. He is a graduate of: Minnesota State SE Band Repair Program('12), Mohawk College('08), and Niagara College('01). Zach has been a professional instrument repair technician for 15 years, and is an active member and presenter for the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians for the last 15 years.

Becky is the Music and Fine arts teacher at Colwood Elementary School in Victoria, currently teaching students in Kindergarten to Grade 5. She is married with two children. Becky has a Master's of Education degree from Simon Fraser University with a focus on Decolonizing Arts Education (particularly in music) and a Bachelor's of Education degree from the University of Victoria, specialising in Secondary Music Education. She holds the President position in the Sooke Music Teachers' Association LSA and has been involved in creating curriculum for outdoor music education, teaching SEL in the music room, supporting core subjects through music, and other various projects in her district. Becky has also helped create some meaningful professional development opportunities in the Sooke School District to spur on conversations around Indigenous worldviews and holistic practices in music education. Check out Becky’s business, https://teachersoutsidethebox.com/ for more learning opportunities.

Kathy Fester (BMus BEd MEd – Fine Arts Education) is a master music teacher with over 35 years of experience. Having taught at every level (elementary, middle and secondary) she has wide ranging experience in many aspects of school music, including Instrumental, Choral, String Orchestra, Jazz, Orff, Kodaly, Musical Theatre, Guitar, Vocal Technology, and Music Composition and more. Many of her students have moved into many different music careers from professional musicians, educators, composers, and songwriters stretching across the world. Kathy’s ensembles have received Top awards in Local, Provincial and National Music Festivals, along with guest appearances at various charity and international stages around the world. She has had many leadership roles in her career; BCMEA Secretary & President, LSA President, Accountant and other positions in various districts, Department Head & Coordinator for a variety of music festivals, plus more. Kathy has adjudicated throughout western Canada and is often giving clinics for students and teachers alike. Her philosophy around music education is about teaching the human experience and developing inclusive, well-rounded learners. Music is the mechanism she utilizes to teach human connections and how to evolve as a society, through Gratitude and Kindness. She is a master teacher with a wealth of information to pass on to others as she nears her retirement years.

Elizabeth Forrest grew up in North Vancouver and is a music graduate of the University of British Columbia (BA) and the University of Oxford (MSt), and continues to work as an independent music scholar. Travel has always been a large part of her life, and has brought her around the world to perform, study, and experience music. Elizabeth works as a conductor for the West Vancouver Youth Band and music educator in Vancouver and is a member of the British Columbia Music Educators Association. Alongside her work as a conductor, Elizabeth works as an assistant administrator for Con Brio Festivals and as a performance specialist & Con Brio Specialist for Ellison Travel and Tours where she connects music groups with opportunities to work with clinicians and perform in venues around the world. Her travel experience spans 30+ countries, and her musical knowledge base spans from North America to Europe.

Emily Gibb is a music educator and band instrument repair technician based in British Columbia. She holds a Master of Education from Thompson Rivers University, along with a Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Education, and Early Years Education Diploma from the University of British Columbia, a Diploma in Music from Kwantlen Polytechnic University, and certification in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme through Western University. She is the owner of Gibb Instrument Solutions, specializing in clarinet and bassoon repair and restoration. In addition to teaching, Emily founded the Frank Marcus Awards, which support Canadian undergraduate and graduate bassoon students, and previously established the Criminal Justice Scholarship in partnership with Surrey Schools.

Thomas Gregory is a prolific composer of educational music and is most recognised for his Vamoosh series for young instrumentalists. He has over two decades of experience teaching beginners in groups, conducting amateur and youth orchestras and leading and coaching chamber groups. He studied the cello at the Guildhall School of Music in London, and the University of Michigan where he attained his Masters. He was recently honoured with an award by the European String Teachers Association UK ‘In recognition of distinguished services to string teaching’. Thomas is currently based in his hometown London but is often traveling and delivering workshops.

Kim holds a B.Mus., B.Ed., and a Grad.Dip Ed. in Fine Arts (U of T, UBC, SFU). She teaches elementary music in the Langley School District and has performed with many choirs including the Vancouver Cantata Singers, Tafelmusik Chamber Choir, Christ Church Cathedral Choir, (as section lead) and currently sings with Elektra. Kim also co-directed the Langley Children's Choir for many years before retiring from that position. Kim remains ever grateful for the incredible energy of the young musicians who keep her excited to be a music educator.

Devin Hawthorne (he/they) is an educator, performing musician (bassoonist), and clinician. He currently lives on unceded lək̓ʷəŋən territory, and is grateful to be on those lands as an uninvited settler. Devin recently completed their post-secondary education at the University of Victoria, obtaining a BMus and BEd with distinction. As a lifelong learner, they hope to continue to learn, grow, and evolve their teaching practice in a good way while also sharing their knowledge and passion for music. As an educator, Devin works as a TTOC in SD63 (Saanich) on the unceded territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ people. He strives to bring joy, community, and dedication to the craft of music with learners aged 5-18 each and every day. When they aren't teaching publicly, Devin also maintains a small studio of high school bassoon students in grades 9-12 in the Victoria region. Devin finds that both classroom and private teaching are rich, rewarding, and complex - especially for learners with diverse needs and abilities. They believe strongly that music should be universally accessible in every way. When Devin isn't teaching, they are performing! They have served as a bassoonist in a number of ensembles including the Greater Victoria Youth Orchestra, Meridiem Wind Orchestra, and Bach on the Rock Orchestra. They also play in a variety of pit orchestras in local middle and high school shows. His favourite part of performing is definitely the people - both within the ensemble and in the audience. They hold firmly to the belief that music is meant to be shared and experienced with others in as many settings as possible.

Janet Irvine is currently one of the Music Directors at Chilliwack Secondary School in Chilliwack, B.C. Previously, she served as the W.J. Mouat Secondary School Music Director, the director of the Douglas College Concert Band, and assistant conductor of the Fraser Valley Wind Ensemble. She maintains a busy schedule serving on the BC Music Educators' Association board since 2016 in various roles (currently serving as president) and the Canadian Music Educators' Association board representing BC music educators. She is also a frequent presenter, guest conductor, adjudicator, and clinician across British Columbia while continuing to rehearse and perform locally in various ensembles. Janet holds a Masters of Music degree from Central Washington University as well as Bachelors Degrees in Secondary Music Education and English from the University of Victoria. Janet has been recognized nationally and provincially with the Canadian Music Educators’ Association Builders Award (2020) and the BC Music Educators’ Association Special Distinguished Service Award (2020) for her role in supporting and advocating for BC music education through the COVID-19 pandemic

John Jacobson is an internationally recognized composer, author, and master educator whose musicals and choral works have been performed by millions of children worldwide. For more than four decades, he has inspired music teachers and students through his creative artistry, dynamic presentations, and unwavering commitment to quality music education. A celebrated leader in the field, John has written and produced hundreds of resources for educators—from musicals and choral collections to instructional videos, movement resources, and professional-development materials that have empowered teachers in thousands of classrooms. His work has been published and distributed globally through major educational publishers and platforms. Beyond his writing, John has directed and staged large-scale festival performances across the country, including ensembles in partnership with Walt Disney Productions and other major arts organizations. His productions have featured thousands of young performers and have been showcased in prominent national events such as NBC’s broadcast of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. John is widely regarded as a “teacher’s teacher”. His workshops are known for their energy, inspiration, and practical classroom relevance—drawing enthusiastic educators year after year. With an exceptional ability to combine movement, music, and motivation, he helps teachers rediscover joy and purpose in their work. John is also the founder of America Sings!, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting young performers with meaningful service opportunities through music. Today, he serves as President and Creative Content Designer of JJ & Me, Inc., in partnership with Musicplay, where he continues to create innovative musicals, songs, choreography, and teaching materials for a new generation of educators and students.

Hyejung Jun is an Assistant Professor of Choral Conducting at the University of British Columbia, where she conducts the UBC Choral Union with 120 singers and teaches Choral Literature, Choral Conducting Techniques, and Conducting Lessons for graduate conducting students. Her performances have been recognized for their sensitivity and excellence. As a clinician, Jun has been invited to work with singers of all ages. She has conducted workshops and masterclasses with students from Canada, United States, and Korea. She completed her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Choral Conducting at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, and earned her Master of Music degrees in Choral Conducting from Yonsei University in Korea and Emory University in the United States.

Identified herself as a “Teaching Artist,” she holds a bachelor’s degree in music theory from Seoul National University. She completed advanced training in piano accompaniment in France at École Normale de Musique de Paris and the Conservatoire à Rayonnement Régional de Versailles. Following a successful early career as an ensemble pianist, she transitioned her focus to music education, earning a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Piano Pedagogy and a Dalcroze Certificate. Her international teaching experience spans positions at Sookmyung Women’s University and Grace Saemmul Elementary School in South Korea, as well as the Aureus Music Academy in Singapore.

Janine King is a music educator and trombonist based in Vancouver, British Columbia. She is passionate about helping young musicians build confidence, take creative risks, and discover the joy of making music together. Originally from Calgary, Janine moved to Vancouver to complete both her Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education at the University of British Columbia. She now teaches K–7 general music, choir, and band with the West Vancouver School District, where she has worked to grow and strengthen elementary music and band programs. Outside the classroom, Janine is an active performer whose work spans a wide range of musical styles, including jazz, funk, ska, electronic, and more. As a member of the Sister Jazz Orchestra, she is proud to support an ensemble that celebrates and elevates women and gender-diverse musicians in jazz. Her journey from classical training into the world of jazz continues to shape both her performance and teaching, inspiring her to encourage students to explore their own musical identities. When she's not teaching or performing, you'll probably find Janine biking around the city, probably with a trombone strapped her to her back.

Jamie Lee is a sound designer and a musician based in Vancouver, Canada. Jamie has a background in jazz performance and has pivoted into game audio with a passion for interactive media. Since then, Jamie has worked on award-winning titles such as Little Kitty, Big City, Pacific Drive, Minecraft: Superman DLC, and many more as a sound designer.

Man Li (he/him) is a choral conductor and composer originally from Hong Kong and currently based in Vancouver, British Columbia. A specialist in the intersection of tonal languages and choral music, Man is a leading advocate for the development and inclusion of the Cantonese choral canon within the global music landscape. He currently serves as the Artistic Director of the Amabilis Singers, the Music Director of the Joyful Voice Community Choir, and is the founder and co-director of the Vancouver Cantonese Choir. Man holds a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from the University of British Columbia, where he studied under the tutelage of Dr. Graeme Langager, Dr. Hyejung Jun, and Dr. Kari Turunen. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), specializing in music composition under the guidance of Professor Lee Wan Ki Wendy, Professor Chan Kai Young, and Dr. Lo Hau Man. He also majored in voice under the tutelage of Mr. Caleb Woo. His professional development is marked by prestigious international conducting masterclasses and fellowships across North America. As a composer, Man focuses on the unique linguistic constraints of Cantonese, exploring how the language’s tonal nature dictates melodic contour and harmonic color. His choral works have been performed internationally in Canada, the United States, the UK, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and at the Taipei International Choral Festival. His commitment to research led him to present at the national choral conference PODIUM 2024, where he discussed linguistic considerations for non-Cantonese conductors. Recently, he served as a Guest Speaker for UBC’s Advanced Cantonese (CNTO 451) program, delivering featured lectures on the history, evolution, and future trajectory of Cantonese choral music. On the podium, Man prioritizes a learner-centered environment rooted in artistic excellence and expressive communication. Before relocating to Vancouver, he held several prominent leadership roles in Hong Kong, including serving as the conductor of the Kwong Ming Ying Loi School Choir, The ELCHK Yuen Long Lutheran Secondary School Choir, the student ensemble Aqua Voice, the vocal ensemble Cantus12, and as the assistant conductor of the Yuen Long Children’s Choir (Gold Medalist, 2019 European Choir Games Grand Prix). For more information, please visit manlimusic.com

Ellen Marple is a trombonist who is known for her versatility across musical genres. She is an active freelancer in Vancouver who is a founding member of Capella Borealis (on alto sackbut). She is equally at home playing jazz (Hard Rubber, VJO, Sister Jazz and more) as she is on the classical side (Vancouver Opera Orchestra, VSO and Pacific Baroque Orchestra). Ellen teaches at Capilano University and The Vancouver Academy of Music. She is currently at work composing a feature-length animated musical

Driven by an endless need for expressing herself creatively, composer and multi-instrumentalist Chelsea McBride is establishing herself as a mainstay of the Canadian and American jazz scenes. Born and raised in Vancouver B.C., Chelsea was surrounded and fascinated by music. She started playing piano at the age of 3, and saxophone throughout elementary school. By the end of high school she had already performed in competitions at provincial and national levels. Chelsea pursued formal music studies and completed a Bachelor of Music at Humber College and a Master of Music in Jazz Arranging at William Paterson University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Jazz Composition at the University of Miami's Frost School of Music, and making waves with her mature sound and multilayered approach to composition. McBride has previously guest conducted at the Perth International Jazz Festival and Sydney International Women's Jazz Festival in support of her 2019 big band recording, Aftermath. The big band, Chelsea McBride's Socialist Night School, also successfully completed its own cross-Canada tour in the summer of 2018, performing at JazzYYC, the Halifax Jazz Festival, and the TD Toronto Jazz Festival among others. McBride has been named one of Canada's top 35 jazz musicians under 35 by the CBC and was the inaugural recipient of the Toronto Arts Foundation's Emerging Jazz Artist Award. As a composer, Chelsea is active throughout both the classical and jazz worlds. She is an alumni of the Metropole Orchestra's Arrangers' Workshop and the Bowdoin International Music Festival's summer composition program. Her works have been performed across North America, Europe, and Australia. Chelsea has presented both hers and others' music at a number of international conference opportunities, most recently showcasing the music of Toshiko Akiyoshi at the College Music Society/International Alliance of Women In Music's joint conference in Medellin, Colombia in June 2025. Whether it’s her big band (Chelsea McBride’s Socialist Night School), her pop-jazz sextet (Chelsea and the Cityscape) or her jazz trio (Chelsea McBride Group), Chelsea is a diverse musician who refuses to stay in one creative box. Chelsea maintains a busy binational performance schedule, and has released six albums with her groups, with more on the way.

Zoe began playing trombone when she was 12 years old, and switched to bass trombone at 15. She studied at the University of Victoria, and now teaches Elementary music in Sooke District 62. Zoe performs with three local bands, all on the bass trombone, from Jazz to Concert music.

Noah Mellemstrand received his Music Education bachelors degree from the University of Victoria, studying Violin with Sharon Stanis of the Lafayette String Quartet. Since then he has worked at Long & McQuade as a String Instrument Repair Technician; receiving training from Harry Twydale in Richmond Hill Ontario. Noah has found a passion in all aspects of strings repair from bridge carving, crack repair, to full body reglues. When he’s not busy at work he enjoys rock climbing, choirs, reading, and biking.

Matthew Minchew is a music educator, conductor, performer, and arts advocate. He serves as the K–5 General Music and Choir teacher at G.W. Carver A+ Elementary and Lead Performing Arts Teacher for Kannapolis City Schools in North Carolina. During his time at G.W. Carver, Matthew has built the school’s choir program from the ground up into a thriving ensemble that provides students with meaningful performance opportunities throughout the community and across the state. Matthew is also the Creative Director of the Rowan-Cabarrus Youth Chorus, which serves students from schools and communities where access to middle school music education has been limited or eliminated. He serves on the North Carolina Music Educators Association boards for the Elementary and Popular Music sections, as well as the Cabarrus Arts Council Advisory Committee. He is also the Director of Contemporary Worship at Assurance United Methodist Church in Huntersville. In 2025, Matthew was recognized as a finalist for the NCMEA Elementary Music Educator of the Year. Matthew has performed for many years as a singer-songwriter across multiple genres. Those experiences fuel his interest in incorporating popular music, songwriting, creativity, and authentic student expression into the general music classroom. He holds degrees in music education from Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts and UNC Greensboro. Matthew lives in North Carolina with his wife, Jana, and their three sons.

Founder of Sister Jazz Orchestra (Canada’s first all-female professional jazz orchestra) in 2019 and co-founder of the WestCoast Big Band Festival in 2015, Christian Morrison has been an active bandleader and advocate for the big band jazz genre in the Vancouver community for 17 years. She is currently Music Director for Sister Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Connexion big band. Christian earned her Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance at McGill University, followed by graduate studies at Boston University. She later studied jazz, conducting and arranging at Capilano University, saxophone with Stan Karp, bass with Jodi Proznick and big band composition and arranging with Grammy-winner Steven Feifke in New York. An accredited Professional Coach, she helps people discover their gifts and realize their potential. As a business executive, she was an ardent champion for programs that develop female leaders. Similarly, as a long-time patron and volunteer in the arts, she believes that opportunities need to be intentionally created for diverse artistic voices to be heard.

Matthew Myers serves as associate director of choral activities and assistant professor of choral music education at Washington State University. He conducts the University Singers and Treble Choir and teaches courses in music education methods, choral conducting, and voice pedagogy. He earned his DMA in choral conducting at Louisiana State University, his master’s degree in choral conducting at Northern Arizona University, and his bachelor’s degree in vocal performance and music education at Luther College. After completing his degree at Luther, he taught grades 6-12 choir at The American International School of Muscat in Oman. For the following five years, he worked as director of choirs and musical theatre at Boylan Catholic High School in Rockford, Illinois. In addition to conducting five choirs, he taught AP music theory, class piano, and critical thinking and coordinated a middle school choral program at four of Boylan’s constituent grade schools. Myers has served as conductor of the NAU Vox Montes and Chamber Singers, the LSU Chamber Singers, the Master Chorale of Flagstaff, and the Flagstaff Youth Chorale and has held church music positions in Iowa, Illinois, Louisiana, and Alabama. Prior to his time at WSU, Matthew Myers taught at the University of Alabama, where he conducted two choirs and taught courses in music appreciation, choral literature, vocal pedagogy, and diction. Myers serves as Artistic Director of the Palouse Choral Society and co-host of the Choir Fam Podcast. He sings professionally with the Sedona Academy of Chamber Singers and Male Ensemble Northwest. He serves the American Choral Directors Association as the Northwest ACDA Regional Membership Chair and as a member of the Washington ACDA Diversity Initiatives Committee. He is a frequent choral clinician, guest conductor, presenter, and adjudicator. He has conducted the WSU Treble Choir in performance at Northwest NAfME in Bellevue, WA, in February 2023, and the Palouse Choral Society at Northwest NAfME in Spokane, WA, in February 2025. He conducted the Idaho Middle School All-State Choir in 2023 and had his conducting debut at Carnegie Hall leading a performance of Bach’s Magnificat in June 2025. He has led singers in international performances through the Classical Musical Festival in Eisenstadt, Austria, and Washington Ambassadors of Music tours in London, England; Paris, France; Crans-Montana, Switzerland; Rothenburg, Germany, and Bad Hofgastein, Austria.

The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), in operation since 1940, is comprised of thirty-five professional full-time musicians whose primary role within the Royal Canadian Navy is to support Naval Operations, ceremonial events, and public outreach initiatives. Currently under the direction of Lieutenant (Navy) Ben Van Slyke, the Band performs in a variety of ensembles ranging from parade band and concert band to big band, brass and woodwind quintets, and rock and contemporary ensembles. The Band provides musical support to ceremonial events such as the annual Remembrance Day and Battle of Atlantic parades, the opening of the Provincial Legislature, and official visits from heads of state. Naval Operations are supported through the Band’s performances at ship arrivals and departures, change of command ceremonies, and other Canadian Armed Forces functions at Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt and around the region. The Naden Band is a role model of service, discipline, and musical excellence, engaging in major international events such as the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and the 2025 Invictus Games. Collaborations with musical institutions in the local community such as the University of Victoria’s Faculty of Music, the Band’s educational school concerts, and performances for Cadet Corps have brought military music and professionalism into the lives of young people from across British Columbia. La Musique Naden de la Marine royale canadienne (MRC) existe depuis 1940, et elle se compose de 35 musiciens professionnels à plein temps dont le rôle principal à la Marine royale canadienne est d’offrir un soutien lors des opérations navales, des cérémonies et des activités de sensibilisation du public. Actuellement sous la direction du lieutenant de vaisseau Ben Van Slyke, la Musique se produit sous forme de divers ensembles, allant de la fanfare à l’orchestre d’harmonie, en passant par l’orchestre de scène, les quintettes à cuivre et à vent, ainsi que les ensembles de musique rock et contemporaine. La Musique fournit un soutien musical lors de cérémonies, notamment aux défilés annuels du jour du Souvenir et de la bataille de l’Atlantique, à l’ouverture du parlement provincial et à l’occasion des visites officielles des chefs d’État. La Musique appuie les opérations navales en participant à l’arrivée et au départ de navires, aux cérémonies de passation de commandement ainsi qu’à d’autres cérémonies des Forces armées canadiennes à la Base des Forces canadiennes Esquimalt et dans la région. La Musique Naden est un modèle de service, de discipline et d’excellence musicale, participant à des événements internationaux majeurs comme les Jeux olympiques d'hiver de 2010 à Vancouver et les Jeux Invictus de 2025. Ses collaborations avec des institutions musicales locales, comme la Faculté de musique de l'Université de Victoria, ses concerts scolaires et ses prestations pour le Corps des cadets, ont permis à la musique et au professionnalisme militaires de s'intégrer à la vie des jeunes de toute la Colombie-Britannique.

Bonnie Northgraves is a trumpet player, vocalist, and composer based in Vancouver, BC. Renowned for her dynamic performances and engaging stage presence, Bonnie captivates audiences with her rich, emotive voice and joyful trumpet playing. Specializing in vintage jazz from the 1920s and 1930s, she breathes new life into classic tunes while also sharing her own compositions that blend modern influences with a timeless sound. Bonnie's trumpet playing spans a wide emotional range, moving effortlessly from playful and exuberant to deep and reflective, creating a captivating atmosphere that resonates with listeners. Her vocal style, similarly versatile, dances between playful whimsy and heartfelt depth, enchanting audiences with its rich texture and expressive phrasing. Equally known for her charm and humor, Bonnie’s engaging personality shines through in every performance. Whether performing at local Vancouver venues or touring internationally, she leaves a lasting impression, combining musical mastery with a magnetic stage presence “For my money, Bonnie Northgraves is one of the most fun jazz musicians to listen to in the country. She plays the trumpet like nobody else, sings her heart out, and is just a master entertainer from beginning to end of every set.” -Tim Reinert, Vancouver area Jazz concert promoter, label head, event MC, podcast host, and occasional writer.

Dr. Darrin Oehlerking currently serves as Associate Dean of Student Affairs for the College of Arts and Science at the University of Saskatchewan, and is a Professor of Music in the USask School for the Arts. His teaching at USask has included courses in Conducting, Music Education, Wind Band Repertoire, and direction of the University of Saskatchewan Wind Orchestra. He previously served as Director of Bands and Jazz at Bemidji State University in Bemidji, Minnesota, and as Music Coordinator for the Louis Riel School Division in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree (Wind Band Conducting) from the University of Iowa, as well as a Master’s degree in Performance (Conducting) and separate Bachelor’s degrees in Music and Education, all from the University of Manitoba. Dr. Oehlerking conducted the 2022 National Youth Band of Canada, held at York University in Toronto, Ontario. He has previously served as the President of the Canadian Band Association, as well as the President of the Saskatchewan Band Association. He has conducted ensembles, served as an adjudicator, conference presenter and clinician across Canada, as well as in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands. He is also a True North Master Educator with Yamaha Music Canada. He is the editor and compiler of the book Winds of the North: A Survey of the Canadian Wind Band Tradition and Repertoire, a music education resource dedicated to Canadian wind band history and perspectives. The book was released in 2025 and is available through GIA Publications. He also has two arrangements for wind band available from Eighth Note Publications – RCMP Regimental March and Souvenir de Quebec.

Chris Perry is a music educator with 23 years of teaching experience and over 25 years working in live sound and audio production. He teaches secondary school music, directing choir, concert band, jazz bands, and small ensembles, and is known for integrating practical audio skills into his music program. Chris has been the sound engineer for the BCMEA Honour Ensembles for the past eight years, where he has developed a clear, musician-friendly approach to mixing large student groups in live performance settings. His work focuses on helping educators and students achieve clarity, balance, and confidence when using sound reinforcement, particularly in vocal settings. As a performer, Chris has shared the stage with artists such as Colin James and Chris Hadfield, and has performed with the Prince George Symphony Orchestra and the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra. In addition to his school program, he has directed multiple community ensembles and continues to support musicians through both performance and technical production.

Credible on paper and slightly unhinged in the classroom, educators David Popoff and Katlyn Redding have been teaching just down the highway from each other. David and Katlyn are both active music teachers and performers (often together!) in Regina and the surrounding area. They have worked together for over 16 years in many capacities (even working the door at local drag shows…) and have shared the front seats on the band trip bus many times. They are adamant that teaching needs to be sustainable and realistic. They love to blend humour with pedagogical excellence. Come have a laugh and learn something! David Popoff (he/him) grew up in Regina, SK and has been a music educator and professional flutist in the province for over 25 years. He has a B. Music Education from the University of Regina and Masters in Music in Flute Performance from the University of Ottawa. He has served on the board of the Saskatchewan Band Association and has presented at the Saskatchewan Music Conference. He is an active performer with the Regina Symphony Orchestra as well as other freelance woodwind playing. David also is an avid supporter in the Gender and Sexually Diverse community, serving on committees and leadership teams in the Prairie Valley School Division, Saskatchewan Teachers Federation and the Canadian Music Educators’ Association. He is currently involved in a McDowell research project researching and recording the stories of Queer teachers in Saskatchewan.

Hailing from Victoria, BC, Katlyn Redding made her way to Saskatchewan in 2006 to begin her studies at the University of Regina—and never left. She has spent her entire professional career in Saskatchewan, completing a Master’s degree in Conducting in 2019. In addition to teaching a wide range of music courses, Redding is deeply involved in the broader music community. She performs regularly in pit orchestras for musical theatre productions, directs community musicals, teaches musical theatre at the Conservatory of Performing Arts in Regina, and maintains a private lesson studio. Redding is also a co-researcher on a McDowell research project, which examined the lived experiences of band teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Passionate about giving back to the profession, she served on the Saskatchewan Music Educators Association (SMEA) board from 2017–2025 and currently serves as Secretary of the Canadian Music Educators’ Association (CMEA).

Canadian conductor-educator-tenor Nicholas Renaud, M.Ed., is pursuing a DMA in Choral Conducting at the University of Washington, Seattle. There, he serves as Assistant Conductor of UW Chamber Singers, co-directs the UW Recital Choir and Glee Club Tenor-Bass Choir, and is a Graduate Teaching Assistant for the School of Music. He has also served as Assistant Director of the UW Chorale and the UW Symphonic Band. Nic is the Artistic Director of La Chorale francophone de Seattle and is Associate Artistic Director of Seattle’s Magnolia Chorale. Prior to doctoral studies, Nicholas taught K-12 music and French in the public school system. Nicholas holds degrees in music, French, and education from the University of Victoria, the University of British Columbia, and Simon Fraser University. He was the recipient of UBC’s Outstanding Practicum Award in recognition of his teaching excellence in secondary music and French. His graduate research at Simon Fraser University focused on leadership, inclusion, and decolonization in the French and music classroom. A frequent clinician and presenter, Nicholas’s work focuses on healthy vocal development, embodied conducting, ethical leadership, and expanding access to diverse choral traditions. He is particularly committed to amplifying underrepresented voices through thoughtful programming and fostering musical communities grounded in inclusion, relationality, and artistic excellence.

Elizabeth (she/her) earned her Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education (Secondary) degrees from the University of British Columbia in 2016 and 2017, respectively. A passionate advocate for music education, she is committed to expanding access to meaningful and affordable musical opportunities for students. Elizabeth founded a district-wide band program within the Vancouver School Board in 2023 with the goal of supporting initiatives that enrich the musical experiences of students throughout Vancouver. For the past six years, Elizabeth has taught at Vancouver Technical Secondary School, where she directs Chamber Choir, Concert Choir, Vocal Jazz, Beginner, Intermediate, and Senior Concert Bands, as well as Junior String Orchestra. Alongside her teaching partner, Amanda Kilburn, she has developed a vibrant and comprehensive music program that serves both VanTech students and local elementary schools. Together, they oversee bands, strings, and choirs from a single classroom, collaborating closely to create enriching musical experiences for their students. Elizabeth and Amanda are dedicated to fostering equity, representation, and inclusion within music education. They thoughtfully curate diverse repertoire and learning experiences that reflect a broad range of voices, cultures, and perspectives, bringing greater visibility and inclusivity to both their concert programming and curriculum. They foster student leadership through their Music Council, where students learn leadership and collaboration skills and assist in running major fundraisers, concerts, and music tours. Elizabeth has also been an active contributor to the British Columbia Music Educators' Association for several years. She has served as Equipment Coordinator and Clinics Coordinator for the BCMEA Conference Committee and just completed her second year as Treasurer of the elected BCMEA Board. She values collaboration with colleagues across the province and is passionate about advocating for strong support of music education. Above all, Elizabeth believes that every student deserves the opportunity to discover, explore, and grow through music.

Catherine Robbins is a dynamic music educator known especially for her work in vocal techniques and choral pedagogy for choirs of all ages. Dr. Robbins is currently Associate Professor of Choral Studies and Music Education at the University of Manitoba Desautels Faculty of Music. She teaches courses in conducting, choral methods, vocal pedagogy for choirs, choral literature and programming, and directs the University of Manitoba Concert Choir. She has twice been honoured with U of M Merit Awards in the areas of teaching and service, as well as a Teacher Recognition Award in 2025. She a proud Past President of the Manitoba Choral Association where she helped developed numerous initiatives including the IDEA-focused Beyond Symposium and Inspire, a youth choral leadership event for high school singers. She was presented with an Honorary Lifetime Membership in 2026. Dr. Robbins primary research centres on applications of anatomical awareness and somatic approaches to conducting and singing, as well as the emerging field of fascia research. Further interests include collaborative self-study and life history methodologies as pedagogical tools in choral music education. Her creative works projects have focused on respectful, responsible, and reciprocal commissioning and publishing of choral music with Indigenous collaborators, working with Indigenous languages, and creative methods of publishing traditional musics. She has presented at provincial, national, and international symposiums in the areas of music education and choral techniques and has published and served on the editorial board and for Anacrusis, the journal of Choral Canada. Catherine has taught music at all levels of the public school system and enjoyed a private voice studio for many decades. She specializes in pedagogy for developing voices, as well as vocal and conductor health, and enjoys bringing the choral music of living composers and song writers to new audiences.

Robert L. Sinclair has served VanderCook College of Music as Director of Choral Activities since 2001 and as Dean of Graduate Studies since 2016. His educational background includes three years at Luther College where he sang in the Nordic Choir under the direction of Weston Noble. After transferring to Sam Houston State University, he completed his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Music degrees with B. R. Henson. In December of 2000, Dr. Sinclair completed a Ph. D. in Curriculum and Instruction (Music Education) at the University of Missouri-Columbia where he worked with Drs. David Rayl and Wendy Sims. Dr. Sinclair has ten years of public-school teaching experience and continues to work as an active choral clinician and adjudicator for junior high and high school students from across the nation and abroad including honor choirs in Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Germany, and Japan as well as all-state choirs in Illinois, Nevada, and Wisconsin. Sinclair has presented sessions to the Music Educators Associations of Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Ohio, and Texas, the Hawai’i and Illinois Chapters of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), as well as the Southwestern and Southern Divisions of ACDA. In May of 2022, he made his Carnegie Hall debut, conducting Mozart and Haydn. He is an active member of ACDA, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Pi Kappa Lambda, and the National Association for Music Education. He has served ACDA as president of Missouri’s Central District (1992), student assistant coordinator for National, Regional, and State conferences (2021-2026), Central Region Youth & Student Activities Chair (2010-2013), Program Chair for Central Division Conference (Chicago, 2006), and currently serves on the National Standing Committee for Education and Communication.

Stacey Sinclair is the Executive Director of the Coalition for Music Education in Canada and a seasoned arts administrator with more than 25 years of experience in arts management. Holding an MBA in Arts Management and Cultural Policy, Stacey has dedicated her career to advancing music and arts education. In addition to her role at the Coalition for Music Education, she has managed Masterworks of Oakville Chorus and Orchestra for the past 15 years, supporting high-quality choral and orchestral performance in the community

Kristin holds a Bachelor of Music (Performance) with a major in French horn and a minor in Voice from the University of Victoria, along with a Bachelor of Education. She also recently earned a Master of Education in Educational Studies from the University of Alberta, where her research explored the intersection of educational leadership and the long-term impact of quality music programs on student learning and school communities. Throughout her career, Kristin has built and led thriving elementary, junior high and high school music programs, directing concert bands, jazz ensembles, choirs, and musical theatre productions while organizing numerous concerts, festivals, honour band experiences, and educational tours. She believes every student can succeed in music when provided with high expectations, encouragement, and meaningful opportunities to perform. Her teaching philosophy balances musical excellence with the development of teamwork, resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Beyond the classroom, Kristin has demonstrated leadership through curriculum development, teacher mentorship, professional learning, and program design. She has served as Professional Development Coordinator for Junior High Band in both the Foothills School Division and Christ the Redeemer Catholic School Division, collaborating with colleagues to strengthen music education across both divisions. Her commitment to excellence has been recognized through a Master Teacher Award and her work as a Mentor Teacher, supporting pre-service teachers from various university programs as they begin their careers in Alberta. An accomplished performer, Kristin has maintained an active freelance career with ensembles throughout British Columbia and Alberta, including the Victoria Symphony, Vancouver Island Symphony, Kelowna Symphony, Altius Brass, the Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra, and numerous chamber music ensembles. Her professional performance experience enriches her teaching by providing students with authentic perspectives on musicianship, ensemble performance, and artistic excellence. Kristin brings enthusiasm, professionalism, and a deep love of music to everything she does. When not teaching or performing, Kristin enjoys spending quiet time at her rural home with her husband, who is also a band director and professional bassoonist, their two teenage children, two Labradors, and three barn cats.

Ingrid Stitt is a Canadian musician, based in Vancouver who is highly regarded as a saxophonist, composer and arranger. She formed The Legends of Burnaby in 2015 to reconnect with the pop songs of her youth, “songs that shook and shaped my world.”

The band’s first recording, When Days Were Long, was released in December, 2018 featuring two original compositions and six jazz influenced arrangements of such vintage pop songs as Help by The Beatles and Sweet Dreams by the Eurythmics.  The music is soulful and pensive, playful and feel-good, highlighting vocal and instrumental artistry.

For many years, Stitt has led her own jazz quintet, performing with some of Canada’s finest musicians. Classical harmony and counterpoint influences her writing and arranging for the quintet. The music is lyrical with contrapuntal layers and composed sections that frame the improvisation. The Ingrid Stitt Quintet is poised to begin recording in the fall of 2019.

Stitt also co-leads the hard bop sextet Sonny’s Cousin with trumpeter Daniel Hersog. The band has performed at the Vancouver International Jazz Festival as well as the premier local venues, Frankie’s and Pat’s Pub. Both leaders write and arrange for the band creating contemporary music that swings and soars in a unique and inimitable style.

Stitt is one of the resident musicians with the Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir, along with Mike Kilanj, Laurence Mollerup, and Elliot Polsky. Led by Gail Suderman, the choir performs concerts at Christchurch Cathedral and has also released two recordings, both nominated for Canadian Gospel Music Covenant Awards.

As a member of the Vancouver Legacy Big Band Orchestra, Stitt plays with some of Vancouver’s finest musicians. Led by Michael Kim and Fred Stride, the band pays tribute to such brilliant big band composers as Duke Ellington, Bob Brookmeyer, Rob McConnell, Thad Jones, Oliver Nelson, Bill Holman, Gerry Mulligan and Fred Stride to name a few.

For more than two decades, Stitt has been a dedicated educator in the Burnaby School District, teaching music to students firstly at Burnaby South and then Burnaby North Secondary Schools. The experience of sharing her passion with young people has been deeply rewarding and enriching. Some students have developed a keen interest in jazz, such as the talented young pianist Howard Chi who had only recently graduated from high school when he recorded with Stitt on When Days Were Long.

Ethan Tong, born in Vancouver, is active as a pianist, music teacher, and conductor. He received his formal training at the University of British Columbia, during which he studied piano with Amanda Chan. In his early years, Ethan studied with Dr. Steve Ho, Winfried Rompf, and Dr. Mayumi Randall, and quickly developed an affinity not only for classical piano, but also jazz, music producing, choral repertoire, and other styles of music as he completed his Associate Diploma (ARCT) in Piano Performance with the Royal Conservatory of Music by the age of 15. During his undergraduate studies, he supported Dr. Ève Poudrier’s Polyrhythm Project as a research assistant, continued to perform alongside elementary, high school, and university-level choirs, and studied conducting under the direction of conductors such as Dr. Jonathan Girard, Dr. Robert Taylor, Jaelem Bhate, Dr. Scott MacLennan, Bryan Deans, and Bujar Llapaj. In the year of 2024, he graduated from the University of British Columbia, receiving both a Bachelor of Music and a Bachelor of Education. Known for his dedication to the pursuit of excellence in music and music education, he was the recipient of the UBC Medal in Music, having graduated at the top of his music class, as well as the Quan Family Music Educator Award and the Outstanding Practicum Award from the faculty of Education. He was also accepted into the Master of Education in Music Education program at UBC. Ethan is currently a member of the CEBC, and is going into his third year of teaching at Vancouver Christian School as the high school band, choir, and jazz band teacher. In addition to teaching private piano students in his studio, he visits schools as a music clinician, is finishing his graduate studies, and—when not musicking—is also a bug-catching enthusiast and reader.

Rossi (Svetozar Tzonkov) obtained his music degree in jazz studies at the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria, South Africa. While performing professionally on Bass, Spanish guitar, and Steel Pan Rossi went on to lecture part-time at the two of the most prestigious universities in Pretoria, the Tshwane University of Technology, and the University of Pretoria. Working as a bass guitar instructor at those institutions, he developed and implemented a bass guitar curriculum for students, 1st through 4th year, which the university adopted and continued to use long after his departure to Canada in 2010. Upon arrival in Vancouver, Canada in 2010 and completing his education program, Rossi focused on Elementary Music Education. He expanded the scope of his music pedagogy by completing Orff, Levels 1 and 2, Drama and Education, Designs for Learning Dance, and Conducting and Conducting Pedagogy. In 2020 Rossi co-authored and published his first ukulele method book called “Sounds and Strings,” which is currently being used by Elementary Music teachers in Israel. In 2022 Rossi launched Kulea Ukulele (myuke.com), an Online Interactive Ukulele Curriculum. The method is now used by educators and school districts around the world. Rossi is currently working at the Delta School District as a Music and Band teacher teaching grades K – 7.

Chung-An Wang is a Taiwanese conductor, singer, and educator whose work centers on choral artistry, healthy singing, and cross-cultural connection. He is currently pursuing his DMA in Choral Conducting at the University of Washington under the mentorship of Dr. Geoffrey Boers and Dr. Giselle Wyers, and serves as Assistant Conductor of the UW Chorale. Before coming to the United States, Chung-An built a rich and diverse choral career in Taiwan. His experience includes work with Formosa Singers, Müller Chamber Choir, Taiwan Youth Festival Choir, NCCU Alumni Youth Choir, Dreamers’ Choir, Formosa Youth Choir, and several school choirs, where he served in roles including conductor, assistant conductor, pianist, section leader, and external instructor. These experiences shaped his musical voice and deepened his commitment to building choirs through care, discipline, and shared purpose. Chung-An holds a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Fu Jen Catholic University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from National Chengchi University. His background in both music and psychology continues to influence his interest in embodied rehearsal teaching, vocal awareness, and creating rehearsal spaces that are supportive, expressive, and deeply human.

Stacy Werner is a music specialist with over 15 years of experience teaching choir, instrumental ensembles, piano, and classroom music. She teaches K–6 music in Alberta, Canada, and also serves as Education Director for Musicplay Online, a platform dedicated to supporting music educators in enhancing their teaching practices. Stacy has presented across North America, sharing practical strategies that make music fun for students and manageable for teachers. She is the author of the “Super Simple Music Centers” series, published by Themes and Variations. Stacy has completed training in both Orff and Kodály pedagogy at the University of Kentucky and the University of Alberta. Inspired by her mentor and mother, Denise Gagne, Stacy is passionate about creating joyful, meaningful music experiences for students. Outside of teaching, Stacy enjoys cheering on her son and daughter at their hockey games. In her free time, she loves skiing, hiking, and practicing yoga.