As the conference takes shape, we at the IWBC are excited about the artistic and educational focus of the programs, as well as the master classes and panel discussions being planned. In this issue you will find a brouchure with information about the conference and solo competitions. In response to our invitation, several committee chairpersons have written about their role in the planning process. I hope you will find these reports interesting.

I am delighted that Elise Schowalter has accepted our invitation to serve the IWBC as its treasurer. Elise has already been actively involved in setting up PR for the conference. In welcoming Elise I also wish to acknowledge and thank Rita Line for her help as interim treasurer. Indeed, I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to share with you that many, many folks have thus far contributed a great deal to this conference planning process. Thank you one and all for all your hard work on behalf of the IWBC

On a different note, let’s give credit where credit is due! I have erroneously been credited for being the first woman on the brass faculty at the Indiana School of Music. Actually this distinction belongs to Ethel Merker, French horn, who served as an Associate Professor of Music at IU from 1972 – 1977. Now that’s a first!

In this, our last newlsetter before the new millennium, let me assure you that we will continue to to work hard to prepare for next summer’s conference. Our mission is excellence, inspiration and celebration. We invite you to join us in Cincinnati.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the IWBC I wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

– Marie Speziale, President