Session Proposals

Odell Zeigler, IV, is the Director of Choirs at the Visual & Performing Arts Academy at Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk, Virginia. He conducts the Concert Choir, Women’s Chorale, Men’s Chorus, and Mixed Chorus, inspiring students through dynamic and engaging musical instruction. In addition to teaching Music Appreciation and AP Music Theory, Odell also brings his leadership skills to the court as the Head JV Boys Basketball Coach.

An active adjudicator, clinician, and public speaker, Odell is increasingly recognized as a leading voice in choral music and education. He has presented research at prestigious All-State and All-Region conferences across 15 states and has been featured as a headlining clinician in two states.

Odell is an accomplished writer, with articles published in prestigious outlets such as Teaching Music Magazine (NAfME), the Iowa Music Educator Journal, the Massachusetts Music Educator Journal, the Rhode Island Music Educator Journal, the Virginia Harmony Newsletter, and the ChorTeach online journal. His expertise has also been highlighted in School Band & Orchestra Magazine (SBO). As a featured blogger for ACDA’s online platform, ChoralNet, Odell continues contributing valuable insights to the choral music community.

Odell is a committed member of the American Choral Directors Association, the National Association for Music Education, and the National Association of Negro Musicians, Inc. He also contributes his expertise as a member of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Education Committee. Odell holds a B.A. in Music & Psychology from North Central College in Naperville, Illinois, an M.M.Ed. from the University of Rhode Island, and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with a Principal Certification Endorsement from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.

In the early stages of choral education, educators often face the challenge of prioritizing music literacy while preparing students for performance. This session delves into the delicate balance between teaching foundational music skills and fostering ensemble performance excellence. Drawing from real-world classroom experiences, participants will explore strategies to:

Integrate music literacy into daily rehearsals without sacrificing performance quality.
Foster student engagement through creative and accessible teaching methods.
Set realistic goals that support both musical growth and ensemble success.
Ideal for educators working with beginning or developing choirs, this session provides practical tools and insights to harmonize the dual objectives of skill-building and artistry. Join us for an interactive discussion that ensures your singers grow as musicians while shining on stage!

• Choral - Middle School
• Choral - Secondary
• Collegiate
• Mentorship/Beginning Teachers