Events and Workshops
Presenter Bios
Eduardo Mendoza, a Bolivian-born multi-instrumentalist, educator, and cultural ambassador, captivates audiences with his unique blend of musical genres. As a Summa Cum Laude graduate from Northern State University, Eduardo’s exceptional talent and dedication earned him recognition as a Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation Scholar and Ambassador for three consecutive years. Passionate about fostering cultural awareness through music, Eduardo collaborated closely with the Bolivian Consulate of America, spearheading a project that promotes Indian Bolivian traditions and music in the United States. As a music educator at Laura B. Anderson and Renberg Elementary in Sioux Falls, SD, Eduardo inspires and nurtures the next generation of musicians.
With over a decade of professional experience, Eduardo shines as the lead singer of El Trio del Sur Latin American Combo, while pursuing his own independent career as EMRO. His international travels to countries like China, Germany, and Brazil have profoundly influenced his musical style, infusing it with a rich tapestry of global rhythms and melodies. Eduardo Mendoza’s remarkable journey as a versatile musician, dedicated educator, and cultural advocate embodies his mission to create harmony, unite cultures, and celebrate the transformative power of music |
Anna Davis teaches at East Elementary School in Sheldon, Iowa where she teaches TK-6th grade general music. Originally trained as a band director, Anna discovered the joy of elementary general music a decade into her teaching career. She has now completed Orff Level I and II training at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as well as First Steps Training with Dr. Missy Strong and Conversational Solfege Training with Dr. Feierabend. She is on the Board of Directors for the Sioux Valley Orff Chapter. In her spare time, she plays principal flute with the Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra and enjoys outdoor pursuits with her husband, Greg.
Kelly Whisinnand teaches at Reeder Elementary School in Omaha, Nebraska. She teaches preschool through fifth-grade students and conducts the fourth- and fifth-grade choir. She also directs the seventh- and eighth-grade show choirs at Beadle Middle School. Kelly has served as treasurer for the Great Plains Orff Chapter and is currently serving on the AOSA National Board of Trustees. She received her Orff Schulwerk Certification from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Southern Methodist University. She apprenticed with Sarah Richardson to become a movement instructor and with Julie Blakeslee to become a recorder instructor. Kelly presented at the 2016 AOSA National Conference in Atlantic City and the 2019 AOSA National Conference in Salt Lake City.