The 2026 Midwestern Conference theme, Reflections of Us, invites us to explore how choral music captures our collective voices—past, present, and future—honoring diverse traditions, shared experiences, and the ever-evolving tapestry of our art. As we lift our voices together, we reflect not only on the music but on each other—our communities, our challenges, and our triumphs—knowing that through song, we discover deeper connections and a greater understanding of who we are.
February 25 – 28, 2026
Milwaukee, WI
Honor Choir Auditions
The 2026 MWACDA Honor Choir auditions open August 27, 2025 and close September 24, 2025 (6:00 pm Central). Accepted singers will be notified on October 29, 2025.
The 2026 Midwestern ACDA Conference gathers four honor choirs for students from grades 6 to 12. This opportunity brings students together with passionate and talented peers from across the Midwestern region in a supportive choral community. Singers will be transformed through an experience with diverse and inspiring conductors from across the United States.
Honor Choir Conductors
We are thrilled to introduce the outstanding conductors leading our 2026 MWACDA Honor Choirs! These inspiring educators bring a wealth of experience as both conductors and teachers, and each is deeply committed to student-centered music-making.
Performing Choirs
Congratulations to our 2026 Midwestern ACDA Performing Choirs! Click on each ensemble to read their biography.
Angelica Cantanti Concert Choir
Elizabeth Egger (Minnesota)
Bowling Green State University Men’s Chorus
Richard Schnipke (Ohio)
Central Michigan University Chamber Singers
Amon Eady (Michigan)
Chorale NouvEAU
Kate Larson (Wisconsin)
The Detroit School of Arts Concert Choir
Julian Goods (Michigan)
First Community Church Marble Cliff Singers
Amy Johnston Blosser and C. Andrew Blosser (Ohio)
Indian Trail High School and Academy Chorale
John Choi (Wisconsin)
Isthmus Vocal Ensemble
Michael McGaghie (Wisconsin)
Lawrence University Cantala
Phillip Swan (Wisconsin)
Linn-Mar High School Bella Voce
Jack Jorgensen (Iowa)
Luther College Nordic Choir
Andrew Last (Iowa)
North Scott High School Singers
Lori Potts (Iowa)
Stare at the Sun
A.J. Keller (Illinois)
University of Wisconsin-Madison Concert Choir
Mariana Farah (Wisconsin)
Waukee High School A Cappella
Jeff Knutson (Iowa)
We can’t wait to celebrate their artistry and hard work in Milwaukee!
Interest Sessions
Congratulations to our 2026 Midwestern ACDA Interest Session Clinicians!
Redefining Community: Choral Music at the Margins
Elena Cressy
Singing by heart: Aural tradition in the Choral Classroom
Elisabeth Cherland
Supporting Sopranos in the Choral Ensemble
Christiana Howell
Evolving Landscapes: Music Education in Underserved Areas
Erin Colwitz & Gabriela Hristova
Due Diligence: First Steps for Ethical Native Engagement
Thomas Goedecke & Alyssa Beltran
The Intersections of Gospel and European Choral Traditions
Bryon Black
Unified Music: A Practical Demonstration of Music for All
Zachariah Carlson-Giving
Using Technology to Enhance Student Learning in Choirs
Jason Hawkins
Appropriation or Collaboration? Programming World Music
Austin Norrid
Más Que Ritmo: Heart and Heritage of Latinx Choral Music
Eric Reyes
In Her Voice: Spotlighting Female Choral Composers
Hilary Apfelstadt, Alan Troy Davis, Lynne Gackle, and Mari Ésabel Valverde
Standards-Based Grading in the 6–12 Music Curriculum
Matthew Clark
Selecting and Programming Repertoire with Purpose
William McLean
Collective Wisdom: Reflections from Midwestern Prison Choirs
Amanda Weber, Mary Cohen, Jody Kerchner, Laura Clapp, and Catherine Roma
Choir as a Mirror: Reflect and Celebrate Student Identities
Leah Wyman, Cee E. Adamson, and Anjali Chudasama
We look forward to your sessions in Milwaukee!
Registration
