WVMS teacher serves as guest conductor for UCMEA All-County

 

Congratulations to Warwick Valley Middle School orchestra teacher Tamara Moser on her successful turn as guest conductor for this year's Ulster County Music Educators Association (UCMEA) 2025 All-County Orchestra Festival!

Ms. Moser conducted the middle school orchestra, comprised of the best musicians from nine school Ulster County districts: Ellenville, Highland, Kingston, Marlboro, Mount Academy, New Paltz, Onteora, Saugerties, Rondout Valley, and Wallkill. The performance took place on Mar 8 at Miller Middle School in Kingston. 

Ms. Moser shared that her first appointment as a guest conductor by the UCMEA came as quite an honor, and that the two-day festival was an incredibly rewarding experience for her. Throughout the intensive rehearsals and the Saturday performance, Ms. Moser had a blast working with the students.

"They were able to grow musically and in their knowledge of their instruments," Ms. Moser said, "and what it means to truly be a part of an orchestra. I could not have asked for a better first experience."

The students were proud of what they accomplished, the Saturday audience of family and friends cheered their performance, and everyone at the UCMEA was pleased and excited over how well the students and Ms. Moser connected and performed.

The UCMEA's mission is two-fold: to foster the music education of all students, while also promoting the professional growth of music teachers. Ms. Moser was grateful for the opportunity to shine for a new audience, and to make some great new contacts outside of the Orange County scholastic music scene.

"It was a chance to stretch my wings a little, and do what I love to do," said Ms. Moser, "Enabling students to love music... just a little bit more!"    

Ms. Moser wishes to extend her heartfelt gratitude to all of the participating students for their enthusiasm and musicianship, and to event chairperson Bridgette Sroka.

"Bridgette was phenomenal," Ms. Moser said! "Having everything I asked for ready, working side-by-side with me, aiding in a flawless experience for both myself and the students."

Ms. Moser looks forward to her next guest conducting opportunity! You can watch a clip from the concert here...