The Midwest Clinic has opened applications for performances and presentations at the 80th Annual Midwest Clinic scheduled for December. Organizers stated there is one week remaining to submit applications for the event, which typically features more than 50 performances and new music reading sessions.
Clinics may focus on all areas of instrumental music education including band, orchestra, chamber ensembles, percussion, jazz ensemble and general musicianship. Anyone with expertise in music education and performance may apply to present a clinic. Clinics may have up to five total clinicians as panelists or presenters. Typically, clinics are presented by educators at all levels, including directors, program administrators and teachers, by professional musicians and conductors, or by music education industry veterans and innovators.
Performing groups fall into different categories based on instrumentation, membership and size. The conference serves to showcase ensembles from around the world and introduce directors to new repertoire for students. Any ensemble may apply to perform.
Sponsorship reservations for the 2026 conference are open. Options include digital program book and conference mobile app packages, event and special program sponsorships, and onsite visibilities at McCormick Place. The event expects more than 18,000 attendees.
The Midwest Clinic announced a new online learning portal for K-12 music educators to earn CEUs. Subscribers gain access to more than 70 hours of clinics presented at Midwest in the last two years. Topics covered include general and single-instrument pedagogy, panel discussions on accessibility, LGBTQ+, leadership, conducting, wellness, program development and repertoire selection.
In advocacy news, NAfME developed a new suite of free, downloadable state advocacy resources through their Advocacy Leadership Initiative with grants from the Music Man Foundation and the CMA Foundation. The resources center on the MAESTRO Act, an adaptable template for advocates to advance new state-level legislation.
The National Music Council released a series of YouTube Shorts focusing on the impact of generative AI on music and publishing. Experts discuss how composers can protect their work while using new tools.
Lisa MacDonald, a Midwest Clinic board member, was named a 2026 She Rocks Award Winner. She received the Groundbreaker Award during a presentation on Jan. 23, 2026. MacDonald serves as inaugural Chair and current Advisory Board member of the Women of NAMM Council.
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