Why compete? Why take your students on the road, put them in front of judges, clinicians and adjudicators, and give up evenings, weekends and personal time with family and friends to do it? Early in my career, I had to answer those questions for myself. Over time, I’ve learned that every music educator answers them differently. That answer can change…
One of the most common concerns I hear about competing is a simple, valid one: “Competitions create unhealthy stress.” I agree - to a point. Stress absolutely exists in competitive environments. Students feel it. Directors feel it. If we’re not careful, it can spill over into places it doesn’t belong. That said, how on earth can we teach students the…
In late December 2025, two Indiana choirs took part in one of Walt Disney World’s most meaningful holiday traditions: EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional. Carmel High School Choir, directed by Katie Kouns, performed on Sunday, Dec. 21, followed by Terre Haute North Vigo High School Choir, directed by Michelle Azar, on Monday, Dec. 22. Each choir performed once, but the significance of…
This one is personal. Every year in the classroom, it happened. Sometimes it was during late fall, getting ready for the winter and holiday concerts and activities. Sometimes it was in the spring, in the heat of all those contest rehearsals and solo and ensemble activities. It even happened during those exciting days right before school started. What happened was…
Our Heart of America 2028 dates are officially set! If you are a planner (like me) and you’ve ever dreamed of taking your program to the next level, now’s your chance to be first in line. Our 2028 HOA VIP List offers directors exclusive early access to registration, hotel blocks and event updates BEFORE they are publicly released. It’s our…
Every season, directors tell us the same thing: “We wish we had registered sooner.” Groups come back year after year because Heart of America Championships are more than competitions: they are immersive performance experiences in ideal locations. We design these events around directors, students and the art of choral music itself. By registering early, you create excitement in your program…
We’re excited to bring Heart of America back to New York City in 2027. After careful planning, we’re moving the previously announced 2026 NYC date forward one year to deliver the best possible experience for students, directors and families. Two big reasons we’re moving NYC to 2027 1) Better dates! Moving the date to later in 2027 allows us to…
As you read this, it might be your first week of school, you've already been in school for a few weeks or you still have a few weeks left of summer break! Regardless, many of you are still active and busy with your school planning and rehearsals even before the rest of the school year begins. On top of all…
HOA is excited to announce our 2025-26 Educational Series! Heart of America is committed to providing FAIR, EDUCATIONAL and AFFORDABLE events with the highest professionalism and integrity. We believe students learn as much offstage as they do onstage. We are committed to providing educational opportunities for choral directors and students across the country. Four sessions will be presented during the…
Summer camps are more than just a fun break — they’re a vital spark. They give both teachers and students a chance to grow, connect and come back to their classrooms in the fall more inspired, more confident and more appreciative of the work you do all year long. I know educators need the summer to recharge and you deserve…