The First Annual CNY Modern Band Festival will be held on April 7, 2018 at the Whalen School of Music at Ithaca College from 8am-4pm. Organized by Dr. Radio Cremata, Jonathan Keefner and Jennifer Rafferty, this event is designed to provide a platform for learner-centered popular music education. The event features master musicians Elisa Schiscioli, Ian Cummings, Craig McMeekin, Ryan Vanderhoof, Alejandro Bernard, and Adam Phillips-Burdge. Ithaca College in conjunction with Cortland Enlarged City School District, New Roots Charter School, Johnson City Schools, Weedsport Central School District and Owego School District welcome area school teachers and their students for a fun education filled day exploring popular music education. Master musicians and undergraduate music education majors will coach students on keyboard, bass, guitar, drums and vocals. Students will form small bands and cover or create a song of their choice. They will present their music in a final concert/showcase. Throughout the day, music educators and and music education students gather in organized conversations regarding the implications, benefits and challenges of popular music education situated in school contexts.
Plans are in place to host this event again in spring 2019. More info forthcoming.