Ohio Music Education Association

The Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting music education throughout Ohio. It is an affiliate of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and serves as a principal organization for advancing music education in elementary and secondary schools, as well as colleges and universities across the state.

History

OMEA was founded in 1924 as the Ohio School Band Association (OSBA) by fourteen band directors with the initial goal of promoting high school band contests. In 1929, it expanded its scope to include orchestras and renamed itself the Ohio School Band and Orchestra Association (OSBOA). By 1932, the organization had evolved to encompass all aspects of music education, becoming the Ohio Music Education Association. This evolution reflects its commitment to comprehensive music education.

Mission and Advocacy

OMEA's mission is to ensure that all students have equal access to high-quality music instruction delivered by licensed music teachers through comprehensive school programs in general, instrumental, and choral music education. The organization advocates for comprehensive music programs, state and national music standards with assessments to ensure high academic expectations, and supports licensed music teachers with adequate instructional time and resources.

Activities and Programs

OMEA sponsors numerous regional and statewide adjudicated events, including honor bands, choirs, and Solo and Ensemble performances. These events emphasize educational values and promote high achievement in school music programs. Additionally, OMEA encourages lifelong participation in music and supports professional development for music educators, including collaborations with other organizations to provide continuing education opportunities.

Structure and Membership

As one of the largest state affiliates of NAfME, OMEA serves more than 1.7 million public school students across 613 school districts and 108 colleges and universities. Membership in OMEA requires affiliation with NAfME, providing members access to professional development opportunities, music education publications, and participation in OMEA-sanctioned activities.

Publications and Benefits

OMEA publishes TRIAD, a quarterly publication provided to its members, along with access to NAfME journals like the Music Educators Journal and Teaching Music. Members also benefit from discounted registration at OMEA's annual Professional Development Conference and other workshops.