Two band directors at Midlakes, a school district serving Phelps and Clifton Springs in Ontario County, have been elected to lead a regional organization that supports school music programs across the Finger Lakes.
Will Hope, Midlakes' high school band director, was elected president of the Finger Lakes Music Educators Association, while middle school band director Chris McAfee was elected treasurer, according to an announcement supplied by Midlakes.
“Chris and I are excited to work together on the FLMEA Executive Board and to serve the many strong school music programs in our area,” Hope said. He said the association connects teachers, students and families and helps sustain music opportunities for students.
Student performances and scholarships
FLMEA represents public and private school music teachers in the three counties within the New York State School Music Association. It provides additional performance opportunities and scholarships for students pursuing music education or attending summer music camps.
The association also organizes regional All-County festivals. Those events give students a chance to prepare an audition, perform and participate in a band, chorus or orchestra with musicians from other schools.
Two-year leadership posts
As president, Hope serves as the association's chief executive officer, presides at meetings and sits on its committees. McAfee, as treasurer, is responsible for financial records, collecting dues, fees and gate receipts, and handling disbursements.
Candidates for the elected posts are nominated from the floor at FLMEA's spring meeting in election years. Each term lasts two years, and the association has no limit on how many terms an officer may serve.
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