Quick Answer
Attending string conferences like the ASTA Conference can help teachers and musicians discover new teaching ideas, explore educational materials, attend performances, and connect with other string players and educators. Conferences often include reading sessions, workshops, clinics, concerts, and opportunities to learn about new approaches to violin, viola, cello, and string orchestra teaching.
For many teachers, professional conferences also provide inspiration, motivation, and practical ideas that can be brought directly into lessons and rehearsals.
Tales from 3 Teachers headed to the American String Teacher’s Conference
As we were about to get on the road, a storm was headed our way…
with a projected 6-12 inches of snow! We packed the rented Ford Expedition with books and displays (thanks to help from amazing glassmaker John Koutsouros!) and headed out early Wednesday morning. My mom (Judy Harvey) was going to fly but we knew the flights would be canceled so she came along for the ride.
The ride was rough for a few hours but around the time we hit Virginia, things started looking sunny.
We stopped for lunch/dinner at a delicious Mexican restaurant.
El Restaurante Ixtapa deserved every good Yelp review it got; the fish tacos were to die for.
Signs of spring were everywhere!
When we pulled into the Hyatt Regency Atlanta,
we were absolutely exhausted and ready to sleep. However, there were only two single beds for three people. The Hyatt Regency Atlanta said they couldn’t bring in a cot because of the fire codes and suggested that one person sleep on the floor. (Bear in mind that none of this was told to us at booking.) You never know what you’ll get when you travel!
Anyway, Myanna headed out the next day to get an air mattress. And an air pump. That didn’t work because it needed a car cigarette lighter for power. Hmm.
Judy came to the rescue with an unorthodox solution!
We never would have thought of this, but it actually worked!
Glamorous unloading…
Conference setup day!
It’s a mammoth task to unload a huge SUV (known as “the tank”) full of book boxes and displays, drag it all up to an exhibit hall, and set it up. This year was better because we had a proper cart.
Finally set up!
Almost ready to open!
Beautiful hotel elevator ride
The conference was amazing!
We met many wonderful teachers and the booth was humming with activity. We loved the chance to interact with musicians from all over the country and talk string technique. From cello shifting to violin scales, we had fabulous conversations and (happily for our aching arms and backs) came home with empty book boxes.
If you are thinking of attending at ASTA conference, definitely try it out; there were so many great sessions and just the coolest people ever. Hope to see you there one year!
Check out these blog posts with free resources for string teachers!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ASTA Conference?
The American String Teachers Association Conference is a professional event for string teachers, performers, students, and orchestra directors. The conference typically includes workshops, performances, reading sessions, clinics, and exhibits focused on violin, viola, cello, bass, and string orchestra education.
Why do string teachers attend music conferences?
String teachers often attend conferences to learn new teaching strategies, discover educational materials, hear performances, and connect with other musicians and educators. Conferences can also provide fresh ideas for private lessons, school orchestra programs, ensemble rehearsals, and technical instruction.
Are music conferences useful for professional development?
Music conferences can help teachers stay current with teaching methods, repertoire, pedagogy, and performance practices. Many educators also find conferences motivating because they offer opportunities to exchange ideas, attend live performances, and participate in workshops with experienced performers and clinicians.
I heard so many things about ASTA Conference. I am happy to know that it was a successful event and the atendees got something great from the conference, may it be knowledge or experience. I have been there almost three years ago and I must say that the experience was indeed memorable. You get the chance to learn new things about everything! I failed to be there this year, and I hope to make it next year.