2 Abilene school choirs to perform at massive state conference

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)- Since 1920, the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) has provided the state’s educators with a comprehensive and dynamic music curriculum, thousands of music teachers, and specialists among their members.

Each year, TMEA holds a conference to bring educators together, inviting some of the best school music groups Texas has to offer. Only six elementary school groups were chosen to perform this year, 2025, including Abilene ISD’s ‘Voice of Taylor’ choir from Taylor Elementary. Choir director and Taylor Elementary Music Specialist Terry Graham talked about the talent and dedication she believes set this choir apart.

“I’ve been at Taylor 36 years, and the talent that I’ve seen come through that school is amazing…One of my fourth graders, the night before the first choir rehearsal this year, he had his brothers and sisters sleep in their clothes so they wouldn’t be late.” Graham said.

On Tuesday night, the Taylor Choir held a home concert at Abilene Christian University’s (ACU) Boone Family Theater. They performed the songs they’d been practicing for the TMEA conference. Over 100 people filled the auditorium to enjoy the sweet sounds of this 85-student group of Taylor fourth—and fifth-graders.

“They sound like angels; they really do, and they sound beautiful.” Said Graham.

Graham says the group is a “no-audition” choir, meaning any fourth or fifth-grader who wants to join can. The team is only making cuts for behavioral issues. She says the students that make up the choir hold their place in high regard, as the ‘Voice of Taylor’ choir has been around for over 60 years, and many of them have siblings or even parents who were members previously.

“What would you say is probably the biggest group y’all have performed for?” KTAB/KRBC asked Taylor choir members Khiara Alarcon, Kaylie Robert, and Lillian Pape.

“The Christmas concert at the nursing homes, probably.” Fourth-grader Kaylie Roberts responded.

The crowd at TMEA will be the largest they have faced yet, with an estimated 30,000 attendees. Graham says the students are a bit nervous, but she has confidence in their ability to do well.

“I just tell them, focus on me. You’re the best. You got here for a reason. Focus on me and just sing your songs. And they will.” Said Graham.

The Taylor Choir previously performed at the TMEA Conference in 1973. This year, 2025, they won’t be the only Big Country representative present, as the Abilene Christian University A Cappella choir will also attend. That group has also performed at the 1983 TMEA Conference.

Following their performance, the Taylor Choir will be treated to a trip to the Alamo and some time at Dave & Busters, KTAB/KRBC asking the three students mentioned above what they are most excited for between the event and two trips after, to which they responded “Dave & Busters” with a laugh.

The conference begins on Wednesday, February 12, until Saturday, February 15. The Taylor Choir will perform on Thursday, February 13th, from 2:45 p.m. to 3:10 p.m.