Monte Atkinson, a longtime music adjudicator for the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA), completed his final vocal music festival at Doherty High School in April, marking exactly 40 years since he began judging for the association.
Atkinson’s four-decade tenure has influenced thousands of student musicians and educators across Colorado. His commitment to using music as a tool to uplift and inspire has left a lasting impact on generations of performers and teachers involved in CHSAA festivals.
Kevin Beaber, former music teacher and current president of the Colorado Music Adjudicators Association, said, “I can’t imagine anyone who has judged or attended a CHSAA Festival who hasn’t heard of or met Monte Atkinson. He has shared his talent, expertise and wonderfully charming personality with student musicians, choir directors and other adjudicators for generations. Few people have had the kind of influence Monte has on music-making in Colorado. While we will miss him tremendously, he will not be gone because each student, teacher and judge who has seen or heard his work carries a little part of his talent with them.”
Reflecting on changes over the years, Atkinson recalled that early festivals involved judges traveling together across the state by van. He noted that while contemporary repertoire is now more common than classical standards like Mozart or Bach, students continue to receive strong teaching and demonstrate enthusiasm for performing. “There’s still joy, still pride, still the sense that they’re part of something bigger than themselves,” he said.
Atkinson emphasized encouragement over criticism during clinics: “You approach it from a position of respect and gratitude,” he said. He often invited teachers to join him during evaluations out of respect for their efforts.
His philosophy evolved through experience: “It’s not just about accuracy; it’s about capturing the essence of the music,” Atkinson said. He described excellence as stemming from knowledgeable teachers who love both their subject matter and their students.
CHSAA Assistant Commissioner Rashaan Davis praised Atkinson’s legacy: “Knowing his service to the association dates back more than 40 years speaks volumes about his passion for vocal music and his unwavering commitment to student success… His contributions have helped shape generations of musicians across Colorado.”
As he retires after four decades with CHSAA festivals, Atkinson urged continued advocacy for arts education: “The ongoing challenge is making sure school leaders understand and value the arts… It takes partnership.” Looking ahead, he encouraged future adjudicators to remember: “It’s not about us… It’s about the students and teachers.”
