Pictures from the 2025 ABA Convention in Chattanooga, TN
(Chicago pictures are forthcoming!)
The American Bandmasters Association, founded in 1929 with John Philip Sousa serving as Honorary Life President, recognizes outstanding achievement among concert band conductors and composers. Its invitational membership includes approximately 300 wind band conductors and composers from the United States and Canada, as well as Honorary Members from Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. The organization also includes approximately 50 Associate Members—music individuals, businesses, and corporations that provide significant services to bands, band programs, and the publication of band music.
March 15 Message from ABA Immediate Past President Roy Holder
ABA Members and Significant Others:
First, it was great to see all of you who were able to attend the 91st American Bandmasters Convention in Chicago. Thank you again to Brian and Megan Covey for all of your hard work before and during the convention. Additionally, the rest of the convention committee––Scott and Janice Cassagrande, Alex and Kathy Kaminsky, and all who contributed financially were an integral part of making this convention possible. We hope all who attended enjoyed the time to once again gather with your ABA friends at our version of “Chicago –– My Kind of Town.”
I must also thank the Past Presidents, Officers, Board of Directors and all the other members who have been so helpful and supportive of my efforts over the past year as I attempted to forward the business and mission of the ABA. Your willingness to answer my questions and contribute to everything from committees and special projects to finances has been exceptional. Thank you.
Last, it is my privilege to welcome the incoming ABA President, Dennis Fisher, as well as the new Vice President, Tom Caneva, as well as new Board members Randall Coleman, Nan Moore, and Bruce Moss. Mark Heidel is also taking on a new role, but mainly he is just relieved that the Wi-Fi at the hotel worked for the voting! Linda Moorhouse and the returning Board members will be onboard to offer expertise and their experience as ABA leaders as we move into the new year. We are fortunate to look forward to the leadership of such a dedicated group of individuals.
This has been a one-of-a-kind journey, and I will always appreciate the opportunity to serve this special organization that you bestowed upon me. June and I cherish your friendship, and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Sincerely,
Roy C. Holder, 87th President
The American Bandmasters Association
Email: royholder1@gmail.com
ABA Associate Members
