Now that we’ve all, hopefully, resettled into our post-ACDA National routines, I’ve found that our time together in Dallas continues to reverberate in many ways—not just professionally, but personally and artistically as well. Conferences like these can sometimes feel like a beautiful whirlwind: a temporary diversion from our day-to-day responsibilities. But if we’re attentive, we begin to realize that these moments together hold far more than just professional development. They are deeply human gatherings—spaces where our artistic spirits are replenished, where we reconnect with purpose, and where we remember why we do what we do.
For me, one of the most powerful takeaways from this year’s National Conference was the sense of community—so evident in the formal sessions, yes, but even more so in the informal conversations between colleagues in hallways, over shared meals and beverages, or sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in a concert. These spontaneous exchanges often turned into meaningful moments of problem-solving, encouragement, or inspiration. In those moments, I was reminded that we are not only a profession, but a fellowship—a group of artists, educators, and dreamers striving toward something transcendent with our singers and for our communities.
There is a special kind of energy that builds when we are all gathered in one place, each of us bringing the best of ourselves: supporting our peers as they conduct their respective ensembles with poise and artistry, diving into repertoire sessions that spark new ideas, or attending interest sessions that shift our thinking. We absorb all of this—new music, new methods, new visions—and we carry it home, not as a carbon copy of what we saw, but as a catalyst for our own creativity.
A personal highlight for me was witnessing Lynnel Joy Jenkins lead the 8th–10th grade National Treble Honor Choir. Her work was a masterclass in musical intention, clarity, and heart. From rehearsal to performance, the singers blossomed under her direction, and the repertoire she curated was a beautiful reflection of depth and diversity. I felt a particular pride in knowing she hails from our own ACDA East region—where she continues to shape young musicians through her work at Westrick Music Academy, the Princeton Girlchoir, and within her public school community in New Jersey.
Other standout experiences include Bent But Not Broken 3.5 and the “Deep Dive” session focusing on Children and Community Youth Choirs: Something for Everyone!.
As I look ahead to the next ACDA Eastern Regional Conference, I see an exciting opportunity to cultivate a space where everyone feels seen, inspired, and connected. Our goal is to build a gathering that renews our creative energy, fosters meaningful exchange among peers, and expands the spaces where like-minded groups can come together and grow.
The regional conference, with its more intimate scale, allows us to go deeper—to focus on authentic connection and shared understanding in a way that’s distinct from the breadth of the national format.
So mark your calendars for February 25–28, 2026, in Providence. Register early, and start imagining the artistic community we can build—together, here in the East.
Kenneth Griffith serves ACDA East at the Children’s and Community Youth Choirs R & R Chair