The Australian Band
and
Orchestra Directors’ Association
The Australian Band
Australia's premier in-service support organisation for school and community band and orchestra directors
WELCOME TO ABODA SA
The Australian Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association (ABODA) is Australia's premier in-service support organisation for school and community band and orchestra directors, pledging ongoing commitment to the growth of music education and community music making throughout all areas of the country. ABODA is the only in-service organisation in Australia specifically for ensemble directors and communicates with other professional development organisations both locally and internationally.
ABODA is an active and energetic organisation:
striving to improve the musical, educational and cultural excellence of instrumental music, bands and orchestras throughout schools and the wider community
representing musicians and teachers involved in instrumental music education across Australia
providing an arena whereby instrumental music teachers and ensemble directors can meet in a positive and supportive environment and share ideas for the advocacy of music in schools and the community
designing professional development programs for a uniquely Australian environment in the endeavour to improve teaching and learning in music education and the standard of performing ensembles
encouraging the development of supportive relationships and networks between music educators within each state, nationally and overseas by communicating with similar bodies such as the Asia Pacific Band Directors Association, the National Band Association (USA) and the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE)
National ABODA also publishes a newsletter Maestro twice a year.
ABODA was founded in 1985. The organisation is made up of over 800 members Australia-wide. State branches are in operation in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. Representatives from each branch make up the national board. National ABODA formulates broad policy and maintains important links with overseas organisations, including the Asia Pacific Band Directors Association, the National Band Association, and the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles.
