As teachers …

American Music Teacher, June-July, 2003 by Phyllis I. Pieffer

All of the above are issues that we teachers are currently facing--all of the above are potential areas in which we can work together within MTNA at local, state and national levels to make a difference. We can make a difference in the lives of thousands of students nationwide. We can make a difference in our own lives and in our studio businesses and in our college music programs.

We often speak of the "magic triangle" of parent, student and teacher. I would like to propose another triangle--that of Local Association, State Association and National Association with the individual teacher member in the middle of the triangle surrounded by colleagues (fellow teachers) who can support, mentor and provide a network throughout the country. We encompass each member with our combined expertise. Together we can make a difference.

Each of you has many ideas and concerns about teaching, about our association from the local to the national level, about music as a career choice and about music as an essential part of our culture and our heritage. Communicate with your state, division and national officers. The strength of our association lies with each of you.

Together the Board of Directors, and the wonderful MTNA staff, will work diligently during the next two years to advance our association so it will continue to be the premier association for independent and college music teachers! We must continue to make music and demonstrate its importance in our lives and in our culture. Think of the 9/11 tragedy and how people turned to music in our darkest hour. We must continue to bring the beauty of music, the hope of music and the joy of music to every human being.

National Conferences

March 27-31, 2004   Kansas City, Missouri
April 2-6, 2005     Seattle, Washington