Sigma Alpha Iota

2 Winter 2026 • sai-national.org D ear Members of Sigma Alpha Iota, As we step into a new calendar year and the spring semester, many of us feel both the promise of possibility and the responsibility of sustaining and growing a vibrant membership organization. This year, rather than setting a traditional resolution, I have chosen a personal guiding theme, much like the themes we embrace for our National Conventions. My theme for this year is Harmony Within. In music, harmony is not created by a single voice alone, but through individuals who listen carefully, adjust thoughtfully, and align with one another. Meaningful and lasting growth follows the same principle. Real change begins within. When we cultivate harmony in our mindset, purpose, and approach, we show up more fully and authentically as members. That internal alignment shapes how we communicate, how we engage, and how we lead. From there, harmony extends outward, strengthening our chapters as places of connection, support, and shared commitment. When individuals are grounded and chapters are healthy, the organization as a whole is better positioned to grow with intention rather than urgency. This issue of PAN PIPES reflects that harmony in action. We celebrate new and reactivated chapters from the past triennium and look ahead to continued growth. Highlights from the 2025 Convention include the Wind Ensemble's carefully curated program and a featured performer recognized with the 2025 American Prize in Vocal Performance. Education, creativity, and care for musicians are woven throughout these pages, with articles on vocal coaching fundamentals, hearing health, Hollis Thoms' "Composer Discoveries," and another musical journey through history with Jayne Hanlin. This issue also honors creative achievement and advocacy, featuring the winner of the Pittsburgh Alumnae Chapter's 2025 Margaret Blackburn Biennial Composition Competition, a spotlight on Equity Arc's mentoring and equity work, and a story of a Japanese-American woman composer from the SAI Composers Bureau. Personal reflection continues with a member's journey to producing a CD of one-handed piano works by women composers. We also pause to honor the life and legacy of Barbara Staton, whose passing reminds us of the enduring impact one member can have on our community. As we move into the year ahead, I invite each of us to reflect on what Harmony Within means, personally and collectively. When we nurture alignment within ourselves, we strengthen our chapters and amplify our shared voice, creating the conditions for sustainable growth rooted in purpose, connection, and care. Harmony also begins at home: just as our individual efforts support our chapters, our contributions to SAI Philanthropies, Inc. help sustain the programs and opportunities that benefit members and music education everywhere. I encourage you to consider how you can support these vital initiatives this year, ensuring that the harmony we create resonates far beyond ourselves. Much SAI Love, Jessica A WORD FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT N a o n a l C o n v e n o n Phoenix 2028 Phoenix 2028 SAVE E DATE: July 13–17, 2028

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