|
|
| The art of conducting has been a lifelong passion of music educator and conductor H. Robert Reynolds. Through his commitment to the advancement of conducting he has inspired countless students around the globe to discover their own passion for the art form. The Midwest Clinic is committed to supporting the art of conducting by presenting an in depth conducting symposium for outstanding selected participants. |
OVERVIEW
Taking place during the 80th annual conference, the Reynolds Conducting Institute will be held Thursday, December 17 and Friday, December 18 at McCormick Place West in Chicago. Clinicians for the 9th annual Institute will be Kevin L. Sedatole and Rodney Dorsey, and the Michigan State University Chamber Players will serve as the Institute ensemble.
Eight to twelve Institute fellows will be selected through an application process, which will include a professional vita and conducting video. If selected as a conducting fellow, registration to attend The Midwest Clinic will be included with your participation fee. Midwest conference attendees are invited to attend the Institute as an observer.
PRICING
Conducting Fellow: $345
Observer: Current Midwest Clinic conference registration rate
APPLICATION
Who should apply? The Midwest Clinic encourages individuals from all levels and areas of the instrumental music education profession to apply. This includes educators teaching in K-12 settings, college students, university faculty, and professional conductors. If you are interested in becoming a fellow for the 2026 Reynolds Conducting Institute, you will need the following to submit an application:
1. One video (5-7 minutes) of the applicant's conducting that demonstrates a variety of styles. The camera view should be from the ensemble perspective (i.e. facing the conductor). Your video should be no more than three (3) years old (2023-2026).
2. A resume or curriculum vitae in PDF format.
3. A high resolution (300 dpi) photo of yourself (at least 2”).
The application portal will open April 1. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 29, 2026 by 11:59 PM ET. Applications will be reviewed by The Midwest Clinic Board of Directors, with official notification being distributed electronically in June. Under no circumstances will late applications be accepted.
Reynolds Institute Policies
HOUSING
The Midwest Clinic has reserved room blocks at our official conference hotels. Many of these properties are directly connected to the McCormick Place West convention center which eliminates the need for transportation. The list of official Midwest conference hotels is available now.
TAX DEDUCTION
Treasury regulation 1.162-5 permits an income tax deduction for educational expenses (including travel, meals, lodging) undertaken to maintain or improve professional skills.
TENTATIVE INSTITUTE SCHEDULE - 2026
All Reynolds Conducting Institute events are held in room W178.
Thursday, December 17
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Fellows Sessions
2:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Fellows Sessions
Friday, December 18
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Fellows Sessions
TBD - Afternoon Sessions