WESTBURY, NY — The New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) announced on January 30 that educator Timothy Hamblin has been elected by his peers to serve as area zone representative to the executive council. Hamblin will serve a three-year term and liaise with music educators from 40 school districts to service 7,000 students throughout Greene, Orange, Rockland, Sullivan and Ulster counties.

The mission of the NYSSMA is to advance music education across New York State for its membership and students in member school programs. Hamblin’s first experience with the organization began as a student having solos adjudicated at local festivals. In 1989, Hamblin was trained to adjudicate piano and vocal solos himself.

“NYSSMA has always been a valuable resource to me as a music educator. I’ve seen my students develop self-confidence and artistry through music while gaining valuable feedback through the adjudication process,” Hamblin said. “My tenure as a NYSSMA adjudicator, an advocate for music education, and the professional relationships with the music educators in this area of New York State made the decision to serve as representative an easy one.”

Hamblin retired from the Liberty Central School District in 2021 after a 33-year career, the last 16 spent conducting the high school’s mixed chorus and honors choir, teaching music appreciation, as well as piano and vocal lessons. He supervised the district’s music program for several years and taught vocal music education at all levels.