On behalf of the Michigan Music Education Association, it is with great pleasure that we announce William (Bill) Vliek as the new Executive Director of MMEA. Bill has a long history of leadership within MMEA, having served as Instrumental Activities Chairperson as well as President from 2020-2022. This past year, Bill also served as the state chairperson for the Instrumental Clinics.
“I could not be more honored and excited at this new opportunity within our great Association. MMEA has been a longtime leader in music education across our state, advocating for learners of all ages and educators at all levels. I look forward to working with the Board as we continue to strive for the best educational opportunities for music learning in Michigan.”
Bill currently works for the Michigan Department of Education, serving as a data contractor within the Office of Special Education. Before his work at MDE, Bill taught for almost twenty years as a music educator in Springport Public Schools and, most recently, at Fowlerville Community Schools. An early champion of the Instrumental Clinics, Bill’s leadership expanded the event from a single site in 2014 to its current scope of five sites, serving more than 3,200 students across the state.
From the MMEA President
On behalf of the Michigan Music Education Association, I am thrilled to welcome Bill Vliek as our new Executive Director. Bill’s deep commitment to music education and his longstanding service to MMEA make him an exceptional choice for this role. Having served as both Instrumental Activities Chairperson and President, Bill brings not only experience and leadership, but also a clear understanding of our mission and the needs of our members and students across the state. I have had the privilege of working alongside Bill and have seen firsthand his dedication to expanding opportunities for music learners. His work growing the Instrumental Clinics into a statewide program impacting thousands of students is a testament to his vision and passion.
I also want to say thank you to Carin McEvoy for her dedicated service as Michigan Music Education Association Executive Director from 2023–2026. Her leadership strengthened the organization, supported and inspired music educators, and created meaningful opportunities for students across the state. Her impact will be felt for years to come, and her commitment to music education in Michigan is deeply appreciated.
As we look to the future, I am confident that Bill’s leadership will help guide MMEA in continuing to advocate for high-quality music education for all. I am excited to collaborate with him and the Board as we build on our strong foundation and work toward even greater impact.
Please join me in thanking Carin for and welcoming Bill to this important role.
Sincerely,
Denise Wilkinson
President, Michigan Music Education Association
A Farewell, With Gratitude
Serving as Executive Director of the Michigan Music Education Association has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life. I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me and for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated educators, leaders, and advocates across our state. Together, we have made meaningful progress. Our membership has grown, our budget is balanced, and our programs and events continue to expand in both reach and impact. Most importantly, we have strengthened our shared commitment to supporting music educators and the students they serve in every corner of Michigan. I am especially thankful for the relationships built along the way. The collaboration, generosity, and passion within this community are what make MMEA truly special. It has been a privilege to learn from you, to serve with you, and to help move this organization forward.
As I step away to rebalance my personal and professional time, I do so with great confidence in MMEA’s future. I am thrilled to welcome Bill as the new Executive Director and know he will bring fresh perspective, energy, and leadership to continue this important work. I look forward to seeing the organization continue to grow and thrive under his guidance. While my role is changing, my commitment to MMEA and to music education in Michigan remains strong. I will continue to support the organization and its mission in whatever ways are helpful, and I look forward to staying connected as a member of this incredible community.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve. It has meant more than I can fully express.
With gratitude,
Carin McEvoy
