Jesse Beulke
A conference centered on servant leadership could not have come at a better time in my collegiate studies. So often, music students get caught up in the competitiveness of music that we sometimes lose sight of the “bigger picture.” I spent the week at the North Central ACDA Conference connecting with extraordinary individuals whose passion for both music and people exuded from them even during the smallest of conversations. It was inspiring to be in a room with hundreds of individuals that shared my love for creating wonderful music and connecting with people.
It was inspiring to see so many wonderful choirs perform, especially the wonderful performance of Verdi’s Requiem by the South Dakota Symphony and Massed Choir as well as the Voces8 concert with Ola Gjeilo. Seeing Ola Gjeilo perform “Uptown Funk” is a memory that will not leave me for some time! I was equally impacted by the performances of many 9th grade, high school, college, church, and community choirs whose passion for excellent music making radiated through their singing. The interest sessions held at the conference were relevant, engaging, and inspiring, and left me feeling excited to begin my career as an educator.
I am incredibly thankful to the FMC Endowment and everyone involved with ACDA for allowing me to take part in this wonderful program. The conference was one of the highlights of my college career and left me feeling reassured that I am in the right field.