Matthew Edwards, band director at Fuquay-Varina High School, Fuquay-Varina, was elected to membership in the American School Band Directors' Association National Convention held last week in Nashville, Tennessee. The ASBDA is a national organization composed of professionally trained, experienced directors and teachers of school bands whose purpose is to advance and improve music education of those students engaged in the study of band instruments.

Directors are selected on the basis of their teaching experience, the success of their music programs, and the recommendation of members of this prestigious organization. The association consists of approximately 1000 band directors from the United States, all of whom wish to cooperate with school administrative officials and educational organizations to provide a rewarding experience for each student of instrumental music.

At the state and national conventions, members have discussions, forums, panels, speakers, lectures, technique demonstrations, clinics and performances by outstanding bands, all of which encourage the continued improvement and advancement of the school band director selected.

Through active participation in ASBDA, members share ideas, strategies, hear new music, and attend clinics given by nationally known musicians, directors and clinicians. Sharing with other musically recognized directors from all over the United States brings a level of experience that develops the individual director's capabilities as a person, a teacher and a musician. Thus, the American School Band Directors' Association provides benefits to the school and community as well as to the directors selected for membership.