2020 TMEA All-State Tribute Program

GREETINGS,
STUDENTS, PARENTS, AND MUSIC EDUCATORS
Congratulations to the students of the Tennessee All-State ensembles and their
family members,
There is no doubt that 2020 will be a memorable year for us all. I remember
telling my own students, on our last day in school before the quarantine
began, that the COVID-19 pandemic would be their “September 11.” As adults,
we can all remember where we were on 9/11 and how that event changed our
worldview. I cannot begin to imagine how COVID-19 will frame the outlook and
futures of our teenagers.
Among the many cancelled, culminating events that we have all endured, I have
no doubt that missing the Tennessee All-State experience ranks among the
most disappointing. While we were not able to see and hear these students on
Tennessee’s largest stage for student musicians this year, that does not change
any of the undeniable truths about these students!
These young people represent the future, not just in music but also as leaders
in their communities and advocates for music in our schools. These young
musicians are the best from across the state. They have rehearsed and
practiced for years to get to this point in their lives. The teachers and parents of
these students are well aware that most of these young people excel in more
than just music. They are strong academically—they are school leaders, athletes,
and volunteers. Indeed, they are the leaders of the next generation.
To all of the families of these students, I would like to thank you for what
you’ve already done to encourage your child’s musical pursuits. I also want
to take a moment to thank all of the music teachers for the nurture and care
you show your students every day. There is no way to measure the impact you
have on these students.
And last but certainly not least, I would like to extend my most sincere and
heartfelt congratulations to all of the student members of the Tennessee All-
State Ensembles. While we are all heartbroken that we did not get to hear you
make music together, I wish all of you the very best in your future endeavors
and encourage you to continue to make music!
Lafe Cook
Director of Bands,
Dobyns-Bennett High School
37th President,
Tennessee Music Education Association
2020 TENNESSEE All-State Ensembles 5