Commissioned by the Wyoming Music Teachers Association for their 2024 Biennial State Conference at the University of Wyoming in Laramie, John McDonald's Week In, Week Out: Seven One-A-Day Piano Pieces explores pianistic work-life concepts designed to engage the curious intermediate to advanced keyboard aficionado. The pieces can be played individually, in pairs or short sets, or as a full ‘week’ of music. The Conference title reflected the title of McDonald's music: Week In, Week Out—A Teacher's Journey.
McDonald presented a talk that discussed the educational goals of Week In, Week Out, and expanded to present an overview of some of his more recent didactic teaching projects with illustrations from several brand new pieces. He coached the young artist Liam Greene in the late afternoon, with the premiere taking place the same evening.
Pianist Liam Greene premieres John McDonald's Week In, Week Out—June 13, 2024. Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts; University of Wyoming
Paula Flynn, WMTA President and Conference Coordinator; Pianist Liam Greene; ACA Composer John McDonald