What is MSBOA?

The Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association is a non-profit corporation entering its 74^th year, dedicated to improving instrumental music in Michigan.

The Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) is a professional association of over 1600 instrumental music teachers in Michigan Schools.  Founded on a single-district basis in 1934, it has grown to a 16 regional – district association in both peninsulas, serving over 1900 public, parochial and private schools.

Through numerous student-oriented activities such as festivals, workshops, teacher in-service functions and district and state meetings and clinics, MSBOA strives to provide continual growth for instrumental music.  For instance, each year over 10,000 students in Michigan participate in MSBOA festivals, either individually or as part of larger groups.

 The growth of this association and higher musical standards of individuals and groups are evidence of progress – progress that is noted by others, both in and out of Michigan.  Instrumental music is an integral part of the school curriculum in most school in Michigan.  The programs are popular, extremely visible and relatively economical.

Our Mission 

Our mission is to provide each student intellectual and creative instrumental music experiences through emotional and artistic communication.

Our Philosophy

The fine arts should be a vital part of the educational process.  In a civilization stressing scientific achievement, material wealth and specialization, the fine arts contribute greatly toward the maintenance of a propose the improvement of the quality of life of the individual.  This is accomplished by helping students acquire the skill of musical communication, thereby providing yet another means of sharing ideas with others. For many students, music is the most feasible and enjoyable means of communication available to them.  As an expressive art, instrumental music requires growth in physical, intellectual, emotional, and aesthetic areas. 

Ethics Statement

MSBOA’s primary purpose is to advance quality music education through the study and performance of instrumental music.  The many types of festivals we sponsor are a means to that end.

The rules and policies governing these festivals are devised to insure that the same standards are applied to each group or individual participating.  Adherence to these rules and policies is the sole responsibility of the director.

MSBOA considers it unethical for a director to attempt to circumvent the letter or the intent of these rules in any way.

MSBOA’s reputation and effectiveness depends on its member’s willingness to exemplify the spirit of these rules and a sense of fair play.  Each director’s willingness to take responsibility for his or her own actions gives all students the role model they deserve.