Hardin-Simmons Attends 2020 TMEA Convention

ABILENE (Texas)–The Texas Music Educators Association will hold its 100^th convention in San Antonio from Thursday, Feb. 12, through Saturday, Feb. 15. Hardin-Simmons students and faculty attend the convention each year and have a history of performing at the event.

The convention takes place at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center near the San Antonio River Walk and is supported by thousands of teachers, students, and businesses. It is one of the largest music conventions in Texas with more than 30,000 people expected to attend. The TMEA convention is a place to meet people, hear concerts, attend workshops, and improve the music profession.

The HSU School of Music hosted a booth at TMEA.

TMEA hosts hundreds of various workshops for band, choir, orchestra, and elementary music teachers and enthusiasts. Topics can range from teaching technique, technology utilization, and how to handle specific situations unique to the music classroom.

Along with workshops for teachers and students, there are hundreds of business representatives in a large exhibit hall, allowing for demonstration of their products. These products include instruments, sheet music, musical equipment, or class fundraisers.

HSU Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Bands, Mr. Bill Harden, will be introducing a bassoon clinic. He will also be performing in an orchestra that will accompany one of the All State Choirs on Saturday.

There are many performances throughout each day of the convention. TMEA has hosted groups from all over the world such as The Piano Guys and others. However, the most popular performances are the All-State Ensembles which consist of the high school musicians that, through multiple auditions, placed highest in the state of Texas. Last year, HSU students and faculty performed at the convention as members of the Key City Brass and the Lone Star State Trumpet Guild.

One of HSU’s tables with information about various programs, scholarships, and other opportunities available.

Each year, TMEA has a night called “College Night” where hundreds of colleges across Texas display information regarding their music programs, scholarships, and financial aid. There are several HSU School of Music alumni that are now teaching music in Texas and attending the TMEA Convention. To continue to bolster relationships, HSU hosts an alumni reception where alumni can catch up and reconnect.

HSU will host a booth during College Night at the TMEA convention followed by an alumni reception on Friday, Feb. 14. For more information regarding the 2020 convention, view the TMEA official website.