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As we end another season of Large Group Performance Evaluations, I would like to express my utmost respect and appreciation for what you all do each day in your classrooms to make your students better musicians and human beings. I would also like to thank our hosts, organizers, and adjudicators for ensuring we have meaningful and enriching experiences for all.
We can all attest to the myriad of emotions and tasks that coincide with this educational endeavor. While there are certainly too many to mention here, I want to remind you of why we participate and why it is important for the overall growth of our students. Whether you are a first year teacher who took ensembles for the first time or a seasoned veteran, we all want to receive critical and specific feedback for our programs. Remember that we must focus on process over product. The results of your hard work in the classroom are not displayed solely at LGPE. Consider LGPE as a checkpoint for where you are with your program and a moment of reflection of where you want to be. If you focus on the ratings alone, you have missed the mark on your “why.”
An added benefit of attending LGPE is hearing other ensembles and supporting our colleagues. I had the opportunity to attend events outside my own district, and it was encouraging to see directors congratulating one another and providing positive words and warm hugs after performances.
I have been kept abreast of several LGPE events and want to personally thank all of our organizers and hosts that have made remarkable efforts to ensure our students and directors have the best possible experience. I will continue to advocate for you as individuals and music programs across the state. I have had the joy of meeting several directors from all divisions and it has given me a deeper understanding and appreciation for disciplines outside of band. As an educator, adjudicator, and in my role as VP of Performance Evaluations, I have a unique perspective on the desired outcomes of this culminating experience. I know there are always ways to improve the overall experience at LGPE, and I am committed to hearing your concerns and making an effort to strengthen the overall efficacy of our performance evaluations.
Please be sure to attend your respective spring meetings to take the time to collaborate with your colleagues. I wish you all the best with your end-of-year concerts and planning for the 2026-2027 school year.
Kevin Brown, Vice President for Performance Evaluations
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