Crafting Culture
A Two-Day Training Session presented by the Servant Leadership Association for Music (SLAM)
When: July 10 – 11, 2025
Where: Naperville, Illinois
Welcome to SLAM – Crafting Culture Professional Development! Join us for two days of learning, networking, and fun. Crafting Culture is a 12-hour intensive certification course designed to empower music programs from the ground up through interactive sessions that focus on the synergy created between human connection and music.
The interactive training provides tools and strategies to strengthen your ensembles, creating a reflective community where everyone experiences a positive sense of self and belonging built on trusting relationships.
Nationally recognized presenters will delve into the significance of connection, character, motivation, and teacher feedback in enriching a comprehensive program. Ultimately, they will share the importance of leading by example, emphasizing the necessity for music teacher leaders who foster a culture of excellence driven by student-centered practices that nurture a sense of ownership and autonomy throughout all aspects of the program.
Enrollment in this certification track includes:
- 2-day training with members of the SLAM leadership team
- Tickets to Summer Institute Concert:
Mark Miller and Friends - Tickets to Summer Institute Concert:
Jason Max Ferdinand Singers - Entrance to “Beer and Hymns” with Tony Alonso
- Access to “end-of-conference” luncheon
Cost: $175 (for active SLAM member) | $225 (non-active Members)
Conference Add-Ons
This certification course is a part of the Summer Music Institute and will be held on the campus of North Central College in Naperville, Illinois.
Additional options for campus accommodations and dining will be available when registering.
Detailed information and instructions are listed below for each option. Add them to your order when checking out to include them in your registration.
Dorm Room Occupancy
$50 per night (Double opccupancy)
$100 per night (single stay)
To order a double occupancy room, you must have a roommate. If you do not have a roommate, you must select single occupancy and pay the full fee. Dorm room accommodations require you to bring your own bedding. Bathrooms are shared on each floor. Dorm is air-conditioned and an elevator is available.
You will receive an additional email from the Summer Music Institute with more information regarding your dorm room and you will be required to indicate who your roommate is at that time. Dorm rooms must be ordered by May 31, 2025.
Campus Dining Service
$70 ($35 per day)
Campus dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Numerous food options are available through the North Central College cafeteria.
This additional meal plan will cover your meals throughout all 3 days of the Summer Music Institute and will be within walking distance of all workshops and events.
Summer Music Institute One Day Pass
The Crafting Culture two-day training session takes place on the second full day of the Summer Music Institute. Come a day early and experience some of the offerings at a reduced rate!
Participate in some wonderfully scheduled workshops on July 9, 2025 including master conducting classes by Jason Max Ferdinand, a keynote address from Scott Edgar, a talk highlighting women on the podium by Cheryl Frazes Hill, and join us for Mark Mill in concert and “Beer and Hymns” with Tony Alonso!