Are you going to Midwest?
That’s a common question in musical circles this time of year. A trade show the week before Christmas? In Chicago? Yes, such is the magic of the Midwest Clinic – An International Band and Orchestra Conference, an event held this time every year.
It brings together thousands of band and orchestra enthusiasts including public, private and college music teachers and performing ensembles from around the world, both student and professional. For the student groups, performing at Midwest is a huge honor. There are dozens of presentations for educators and performers along with numerous concerts, lectures and demonstrations throughout the four day event. Held at McCormick Place, there is also a huge exhibit hall, where you can find a sea of instrument manufacturers, fund raising companies (often giving out free samples of pizza and cookies!), music publishers, college recruiters, and countless other companies that support the music industry. And of course, you can buy the best lip balm on the planet, Gosling’s Original ChopSaver, at Booth #209.
I may have to pack some earplugs as a band and orchestra convention can create a cacophonous din unlike any trade show you have ever been too! With thousands of people trying out the latest models of brass instruments including trumpets, trombones, horns, tubas, and woodwinds like flutes, clarinets, and saxophones, you can bet there will be some tired chops that will need saving.
Hope to see you there!
