For the second time, Milwaukee Public Schools hosted the Urban Music Leadership Conference, a gathering of about 100 music education professionals. The group observed music programs at six MPS schools—Humboldt Park, Allen-Field, ALBA, Golda Meir, Riverside, and Milwaukee High School of the Arts (MHSA). At MHSA, attendees eagerly joined in singing along with choir students and looking over the shoulders of band students.
This event was the 23rd Urban Music Leadership Conference. Discussion topics focused on the needs of urban students, equity in music education programs, and the resources available to districts. The conference was structured to allow plenty of time for networking and collaboration among attendees. Participants included music administrators, supervisors, curriculum managers, music specialists, and others who are interested in improving the teaching, learning, and management of music and arts programs in urban areas.
Keynote speakers Graham Hepburn of Quaver Music and Michael Yaffe from the Yale School of Music inspired and educated attendees with personal stories. Event sponsors included McGraw-Hill Education, Little Kids Rock, Quaver Music, and Conn Selmer.
Attendees shared that they enjoyed spending time with students, viewing Lake Michigan, dining on local cuisine, and experiencing the excitement of the Milwaukee Brewers in playoff games. MPS looks forward to hosting the conference in the future!
