Unified Music to perform in Milwaukee
After a series of high-profile appearances in recent years, the Unified Music program at Buffalo High School is now preparing for its most prominent performance yet.
On Monday, Nov. 24, BHS Choir Director Zack Carlson-Giving informed the Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose School Board that the 32-member ensemble of students with and without disabilities has been invited to perform at the 2026 Midwestern American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Regional Conference in Milwaukee.
“This is one of the most prestigious professional gatherings for choral educators in the nation, representing nine states across the Midwest and featuring only the most innovative and exemplary programs,” Carlson-Giving told the board.
Only 15 ensembles were chosen to perform at the conference out of 117 that applied.
“This invitation is more than an honor; it is a clear indication of the leadership Buffalo High School is showing in the state and beyond,” said Carlson-Giving.
Last year the group became the first Unified ensemble to perform at the Minnesota state ACDA conference, a successful debut in that professional setting that paved the way for this year’s greater opportunity.
But that is not the only big-stage performance Unified musicians have given beyond the walls of BHS. The group also sang the national anthem in the Minnesota Capitol rotunda on Unified Capitol Hill Day last March, and at a variety of other events, including the State Unified Basketball Tournament.
On February 27, the group will present “Unified Music: A Practical Demonstration of Music for All,” at the ACDA Regional Conference.
“This means that our students will not only perform but will teach and model what inclusive, accessible, high-quality music-making looks like in a public school setting,” Carlson-Giving told the board. “Our students are being recognized for musical excellence, collaboration, and the deep culture of belonging that they help create every day. Directors and educators from across the nine-state region will learn directly from our students — an incredibly rare distinction.
“This opportunity positions Buffalo as a state and regional leader in inclusive arts education. It showcases not only our commitment to artistic quality but also our dedication to ensuring every student has a place to belong, contribute, and shine. Our students are proud, our staff is proud, and this community should be exceptionally proud of the example Buffalo is setting for the region.”
For more about the Unified program at BHS, see this August 2024 article.
