20/02/2012
Report
of the Eastern Division - March 2012
The Eastern Division
competitions, which took place on Jan. 6 & 7, 2012 at West Chester
University, went extremely well. We had beautiful weather - no minor miracle in the Northeast in January
- with sunshine and temps in the 50s!!! West Chester University
(PA) hosted the event for a second time in the recent past and our
incredible site-coordinator, Patricia Powell, made sure that all
logistical details were addressed with aplomb.
Many thanks go to Patricia,
as well as to our outstanding Competition officials, Stephanie Bruning, Deb
Gers, Manabu Takasawa, Shellie Gregorich and Ann McCandliss, for their
excellent work prior to the competitions and while on-site. We look forward to hearing the
Eastern Division winners compete at the national level in NYC and wish each of
them the best!
Special thanks goes to
Shellie Gregorich, for her years of outstanding work as ED Composition
Competitions Chair. Shellie is
stepping down to focus on her family. Eastern Division is confident that someone will be stepping up to the
plate to take her place.
This year, Eastern Division
was charged a fee for use of the competition facilities and initially that
amount was quite significant. Once
the final bill came in, we were thankful to see that through the efforts of the
MTNA office and the School of Music Dean Tim Blair, the rental fee was more
in-line allowing Eastern Division to remain within its budgeted amount for the
competitions. As Director, I
foresee that more and more universities and colleges will require a significant
rental fee and look forward to hearing from the recently appointed Competitions
Committee on alternative means of delivering the competitions that may help the
financial bottom line, yet continue to provide a first-rate competition
experience.
Several Eastern Division state organizations forwarded
the following updates on their activities:
Maine MTA (Holly Weinberg, President)
ME MTA hosted a Piano
Monster Festival on March 10, 2012 at the University of Maine in Orono for
pianists in grades 5-12. Next year’s fall conference will feature the
Portland Jazz Orchestra, whose members will work with teachers and students on
jazz improvisation, "comping", and soloing.
Massachusetts MTA (Alison Barr, President)
In a recent Board
meeting, MA MTA voted to establish
a Chamber Music Festival starting March 2013. The event will take place
over two consecutive weekends. The first weekend will offer a day-long
festival for chamber groups at any level, and of any instrumentation (excluding
piano four-hands and piano duo), and will include a public master class and
written evaluations for each group. The second weekend will consist of a
public concert featuring groups selected from the prior weekend’s master
class. The in-coming MA MTA
president is Vera Rubin. Vera is a fabulous violinist and violin
pedagogue, and cultivated the idea of a Chamber Music Festival over some time.
MA MTA is thrilled to be implementing it. Lastly, MA MTA is proud to say that between 15-20 of it
members will be in attendance at the MTNA 2012 Conference in NYC!
Pennsylvania MTA (Gilya Hodos, President)
PMTA
will be hosting its state conference June 8-10, 2012 at West Chester
University. The focus of the
conference is: “Teaching,
Performing, Collaborating : And All That Jazz!!!” It will
feature the following line-up of presenters: Guest Artists: Greg Anderson & Elizabeth Joy Roe; Guest Speaker: Sally Bonkrude; Guest Clinician: Bradley Sowash &
Commissioned Composer: David Cutler. PA MTA is excited to
announce the unveiling of its new website as of Jan. 1, 2012. It can be viewed at www.pamusicteachers.org. PMTA’s goal is to upload all of its
forms and information, as well as
allow for on-line registration for its state membership and its
conferences. The site also
includes a PMTA Membership and Professional Teacher Referral Service Link,
which has been found to be a tremendous asset both to its members and to those
seeking a music teacher. PMTA has also instituted a new on-line newsletter format entitled
“Constant Comment.” This service
efficiently and inexpensively allows the members to stay in contact through
regular “eblasts” and newsletters. Finally, PMTA is working towards a more efficient use of its Board
member positions. An upcoming
bylaws election change should allow the organization to streamline its Board
and thus, better serve the needs of the membership.
Vermont MTA (Jane Goldstein, President)
VT MTA has been and is still
looking for someone to serve as President. Jane Goldstein has served in
this position admirably since moving to VT from the Virginia MTA. Membership
numbers in the state are on a downturn making it difficult to identify someone. One of the state’s major challenges is
retaining members who only join for a year or two. It is believed that offering more workshops aimed at
music teachers outside of the Burlington, VT area is essential to the health of
the organization. On a bright
note, VT MTA held its second Collaborative Music Day at the Burlington
Mall. The event was very well received, and attended, as many people had
to walk by the performers in order to get to the auditions to sing the Star
Spangled Banner at the Red Sox games! Even Wally, the Red Sox mascot,
came down and played the piano. (He/she actually can!) Lynn
Smith, a previous past president, will represent Vermont at the upcoming
Eastern Division meeting taking place during the NYC conference. Another
positive note is that the organization has a new website. It also has a
budget outlined on a newly created form making it easy to update on a yearly
basis. Update! As of March 31st, Marie Johnson will take
over as VMTA president. Thank you,
Marie!
New Jersey MTA (Diane Hou, President)
NJ MTA held its 2011 state
conference at Rider University. Guest artists included Eduardus Halim and Jennifer Linn. NJ MTA’s own Veda Zuponcic presented a
session in which she shared her ideas and experiences on preparing students for
competition. The College Faculty
Forum, led by Phyllis Lehrer, with panelist Wayne Heisler,
Richard Woo, Ena Bronstein Barton, Veda Zuponcic, provided
those in attendance with different aspects of music learning beyond high
school. The Independent Music Teachers Forum (IMTF) panel “Four Hands and
More”, led by Hendry Wijaya, was very informative and educational. All the presenters, Prof. Ingrid
Clarfield, Dr. Chiu-Ling Lin, Lillian Livingston, and Betty Stoloff shared some
of their favorite repertoire for piano ensemble music appropriate for students
of all levels. NJ MTA member Chiu-Tze Lin was presented with
the NJ MTA “Teacher of the Year Award”. NJ MTA is also hosting its “Performathon”
on February 25 & 26th at Westminster Choir College of Rider
University. Once again, the
organization raising money for the three Ronald McDonald Houses in New Jersey. Last year this event raised over
$16,000(!) and they are striving to do even better this year.
Maryland MTA (Junko Takahashi, President)
MD MTA is currently working on creating a Collegiate
Chapter at one of its many outstanding music schools.
The MD MTA board recently voted to NOT pair competition
winners and their teachers’ names in their announcements hoping to avoid
parents from changing their child’s instructor to teachers who have multiple
competition winners. A
recent concerto competition, with over 220 participants, worked very well under
this new ruling. It is important
to note that those teachers with competition winning students are still
recognized, but not identified with the winning students’ names. Also, MD MTA has secured a legal
advisor, who is willing to offer their time and expertise gratis. With the advisor’s help, several
by-laws were updated. The
next project will focus on creating a clearly defined “dispute resolution”
process in the hopes of avoiding any future legal action against the board.
Respectfully submitted by
Diane Birr, Eastern
Division Director
February 20, 2012
18/11/2010
Winter Report of the Eastern Division
The Eastern Division
Competitions are taking place on January 7-8, 2011 at Rowan University in
Glassboro, NJ. State and D.C.
presidents will attend a dinner meeting on Friday, Jan. 7th. Some states in Eastern Division have
had a record number of entrants in the MTNA competitions this year promising
that the competitions will be exciting and inspiring.
Below are updates from
several ED states.
Vermont MTA – Jane Goldstein, President
Vermont has held its own
in regards to membership numbers this year. It has had a few new members
join, filling vacancies of those who moved away or retired. Vermont MTA
recently held its fall convention featuring Joanne Haroutounian who was well
received by the attendees. Vermont is pleased to have had some
non-members attend and express an interest in establishing a Musiclink contact
working through Joanne.
Vermont MTA has two events
scheduled in the upcoming months. One is a Vermont Day of Collaboration to correspond with MTNA’s
initiative. The state also has a play-a-thon scheduled to take place in a
mall in Burlington. Money raised
will go to a Vermont camp for children with cancer. Interesting and fun combinations of instruments are planning
to take part, as well as some family groups in addition to the serious
students. All are very eager to
participate.
New Jersey MTA –
Chiu-Ling Lin, President
NJMTA began the year
2010-2011 with a board meeting on Sept. 17. The month of November is busy with the state conference in
addition to other various activities. (See below.)
Nov. 19-21 State
conference at Rutgers University
see
conference brochure http://www.njmta.com/brochure-v3.pdf
or
website link http://www.njmta.com/conference2010.php
Nov. 7 Young
Musicians Competitions, Advanced Master Class Audition and Composer Commission
Competition at Westminster Conservatory
Nov. 13 State
MTNA competitions at Rowan University
During the conference, the
updated 2011 Yearbook will be distributed to members and its next board meeting
will be held. NJMTA is actively
planning for various collaborative music performances on Jan. 22, 2011. The state conference also includes a
session on “Chamber Music: A Shared Musical Experience”. A Chinese music instrumental ensemble
will be featured during the conference as well.
Massachusetts MTA –
Alison Barr, President
Massachusetts Music
Teachers Association is proud to be entering its 51st year with vibrant student
programs and an extremely committed board. State President Allison Barr
is delighted to announce two special events on the horizon:
On Saturday, May 7,
2011, MAMTA will hold its first annual "Teacher-of-the-Year Social
Evening”, not only honoring a special teacher, but also calling for all members
and guests to enjoy each other's company on a purely social basis. MA MTA’s 50th Gala last May was such a
huge success that it has decided to place a small-scale social event on the
calendar every spring.
On Saturday, October 1,
2011, MA MTA will serve as host of the Quad-State Conference along with Maine,
New Hampshire and Vermont. MA MTA is excited to hold the conference at
the beautiful Distler Hall in the Granoff Music Center at Tufts University, in
Medford, MA. The theme of the day is tentatively titled, "Nurturing
the Creative Spirit in Our Students."
Pennsylvania MTA –
Jacqueline Herbein, President
Approximately 275
students from across the state of PA will participate in showcase recitals at
Penn State University on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2010. These students earned
superior ratings in local Dorothy Sutton Performance Festival auditions held
earlier this fall. Also included on the recitals will be winners of the
state-run Keystone Composition Competition.
PAMTA’s first-ever
resort-based conference was held in June 2010 at Bedford Springs Resort in
Bedford, PA. Due to the success of this conference, the 2011 conference
will take place at The Inn at Pocono Manor, Pocono Manor, PA June 10-12, 2011.
Most PAMTA local
associations are planning a collaborative event during the weekend of Jan
22-23, 2011. PAMTA has a board member in charge of coordinating efforts
of the local associations and will be providing a follow-up report. All
locals have been encouraged to seek media coverage for the event. PAMTA
submitted a “partnership agreement” on the MTNA website, as well as submitted its
state logo for inclusion on the site as a sign of commitment to MTNA’s
“International Day of Collaborative Music.”
New Hampshire MTA –
Connie Chesebrough, President
NHMTA held its Fall
Conference on Sat., Oct 16, 2010 in Concord, NH, with clinicians Marvin
Blickenstaff and George Lopez. NHMTA
commissioned and premiered a new work by NH composer Heather Gilligan.
The work titled “Winged Reflections” is written for mezzo soprano, tenor
saxophone and piano. NHMTA is
holding the state MTNA competitions on Sat., Nov. 6, 2010. Thanks to NHMTA member Carleen Graff,
NHMTA has a new website <www.nhmta.net>. The state’s Seacoast Chapter is
thriving and providing numerous educational opportunities for its members, as
well as recitals and events featuring the students of its members.
Washington, D.C. WMTA
– Bonnie Kellert, President
WMTA’s Concertofest will take place on January 22nd in
conjunction with MTNA’s International Day of Collaborative Music. This event is open to students and adults
and is non-competitive. Participants will receive feedback from two judges. On March 20,
WMTA’s Margaret Frank Bi Annual Specialty Competition will feature French
music. Piano students select one piece from the required list
plus an additional piece (also by a French composer) of equal difficulty. The event offers, for the first time, a
non-competitive category for pianists and other instruments performing one work
and receive judges’ comments.
Other events being
sponsored by WMTA include its Baroque Festival, which is open to all
instruments and taking place on February 26, 2011. In
addition, the Raissa Tselentis Award in Excellence in the Performance of the
Clavier Works of J.S. Bach is scheduled for April 2, 2011. This major piano event includes
competitions in three divisions with monetary prizes awarded in each. It is important to note that a WMTA
member donated this year’s prize money.
Another highly
competitive event sponsored by WMTA is the Nora Lichtenberg Piano Scholarship
Competition scheduled for May 8, 2011. Significant monetary prizes are awarded in this competition. Also held on May 8th is the
Viola Hartman Piano Performance Awards.
For String players, WMTA
offers the Potter Violin Company String Competition for High School and Junior
High School String Players (in memory of Gretchen Hood). This is a highly
competitive event with prize money contributed by the Potter Violin Company.
For aspiring young
composers, WNTA sponsors the WMTA Young Composers Competition. The winning compositions are
performed at the Honors Recital at the conclusion of the year. Winning
student composers also receive monetary awards.
And finally, WMTA offers
two events specifically for adult students – a judged recital on Feb. 5, 2011
and two musicales scheduled for Jan. 15 and June 4, 2011.
West Virginia MTA –
Mary Lynne Bennett, President
WVA MTA recently held a
successful and inspiring joint conference with Virginia’s MTA. The event was held at James Madison
University. Barbara Nissman was the featured conference guest artist in
addition to other clinicians, which were primarily faculty members of
universities from the states of West Virginia and Virginia.
WVA MTA has several
events planned for January 22, 2011, MTNA’s International Day of
Collaborative Music: Eastern Panhandle Music Teachers Local
Association is holding their annual concerto competition, a state-sanctioned
event. The Morgantown Area Music Teachers Local Association is planning
an ensemble concert at a local venue, with teachers performing for their
students and families. District 2 (Fairmont, Clarksburg, Elkins,
Philippi) of WVMTA is planning a collegiate chamber music recital on that
day. District 4 of WVMTA
(Parkersburg area) held a piano ensemble concert with the Ohio Valley MTA in
mid-November, so they will not be holding a separate event on January 22.
Submitted by Diane Birr, Eastern Division Director
02/05/2010
Eastern Division Meeting at the 2010 MTNA National
Conference
On Sunday, March 21, almost 30 members of Eastern Division
met while at the 2010 MTNA national conference.
Ellen Flint, out-going director, was unable to attend the
conference due to a death in the family.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ellen and her family.
The meeting was called to order at 5:04 P.M. by incoming
Division Director Diane Birr (NY).
The site for the 2011 Eastern Division Competitions was
announced. They will take place on
Friday-Saturday, January 7-8, 2011 at Rowan University (NJ). Site-coordinator for the event will be
Veda Zuponcic.
MTNA's "International Day of Collaboration" - Saturday,
January 22, 2011 - was discussed by those in attendance. All Eastern Division States and Local
Associations are encouraged to celebrate the art of collaboration on this day
through the scheduling performances that feature musical collaboration of all
kinds. Eastern Division is keeping
a record of its activity and we ask that information regarding these events be
forwarded to the Division Director (dbirr@ithaca.edu) so that they can be
posted on the Division portal of the MTNA site. Additional information regarding this event, as well as MTNA's
Year of Collaborative Music can be found at: http://www.mtna.org/Programs/YearofCollaborativeMusic/tabid/677/Default.aspx
Eastern Division Certification Chair, Carleen Graf,
mentioned the new process for certification that includes the portfolio option,
as well as the opportunity for college students to become certified. More
information is available at: http://www.mtnacertification.org/
Eastern Division Results from the 2009-2010 MTNA
National Competitions
Composition - Senior Level Winner: Emily Tu, student of Felicia Ruffman
(NJ)
MTNA Junior Piano 2nd Place: Eric Lu, student of Dorothy
Shi (MA)
MTNA Junior Woodwinds 3rd Place: Angela Li, student of Lynne
Cooksey (DE)
MTNA Senior Piano Winner: Fifi Zhang, student of Marjorie Lee
(VA)
MTNA Senior Strings 3rd Place: Brian Hong, student of June
Huang (VA)
Young Artist Strings Winner: Yi-Jung Su, student of Edwin Barker
(MA)
Young Artist Woodwinds 3rd Place: Xin Gao, student of James
Houlik (PA)
Chamber Music 3rd Place: Nubar Trio, coached by
Marian Hahn (MD)
Congratulations to all!
Outgoing Eastern Division Competitions Chair, Scott Beard,
encouraged members to encourage participation in the competitions, especially
at the collegiate level and in instruments other than piano. Further discussion on competitions took
place in the open discussion portion of the meeting.
EASTERN DIVISION STATE NEWS
CT- CT state conference will take place on Oct. 31, 2010 in
Hartford, CT. David Westfall, pianist, will
present a concert.
DC- D.C. MTA will be hosting a one-day workshop &
competitions in November 2010.
MA-MAMTA will celebrate its 50th Anniversary
Celebration, May 1, 2010. Gary Ingle will be in attendance.
MD-MD state conference will take place Jan. 7-8, 2011 at the
University of Maryland.
ME-ME state conference will take place Oct. 21, 2010. The conference will include a memorial concert featuring works
by ME member and composer William Goldberg.
NH- NH state conference will take place Oct. 16, 2010 in
Concord, NH. Marvin Blickenstaff will be the
guest clinician.
NJ-NJ state conference will take place Nov. 19-21, 2010 at
Rutgers University. Conference presenters include Julian
Martin as the conference artist and pedagogue Helen Marlais.
NY- NY state conference will take place Oct. 15-17, 2010 at
the College of St. Rose in Albany, NY.
PA---PA state conference will take place June 11-13, 2010 at
the Bedford Springs Resort. Go to www.pamusicteachers.org for more
information. The conference artist
will be Brian Ganz.
VT-VT state conference will take place Oct. 9, 2010. Joanne Haroutounian will serve as conference clinician.
WV-WV will hold a joint conference with Virginia MTA at
James Madison University Nov. 7-8, 2010. Barbara Nissmann will be the conference
artist.
OPEN DISSCUSSION
a.
Members discussed the definition of collaboration, how to get
students involved (other instruments, college students), work with music stores
and other businesses as sponsors, as well as other professional organizations
like NATS and ASTA.
b.
Student activities:
Members talked about activities that they have at state conferences for
students besides competitions. Several of the college members in
attendance talked about the importance of having the perspective of the student
and beginning teachers at the conference.
They also expressed the desire of having a place for college students to
gather and discuss pedagogical and performance issues, such as the MTNA Webinar
that took place a few years ago.
c.
Scott Beard brought up the past history of the division
regarding a conference and possible having a special event like a concert or
some kind of opening session. Are
there funds? Does this fulfill the
role of the division according to MTNA's national organization?
d.
Members discussed several aspects of the competitions: inclusion of Jr. High in the duet
competition, other combinations in the chamber music (duos?), instruments no
longer included in the competitions, etc.
Members agreed to attend the open session on competitions.
e.
Members also discussed ways of staying in better contact via
social networks like Facebook and using video conferencing options on
SKYPE. Kathleen Theisen (MA)
agreed to look into this.
The meeting adjourned at 5:55 PM. Many of the attendees attended the Eastern Division dinner
at the Cyprus Grille in the Embassy Suites Hotel.
Thanks goes to Dr. Scott Beard, NCTM Eastern Division Director-Elect, for taking minutes of the meeting's discussion.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane Birr - Eastern Division Director
09/04/2009
MTNA National Conference
Eastern Division Meeting
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Atlanta, GA
Meeting Summary
Thirty members of the MTNA Eastern Division, representing 13 states, including the District of Columbia, met at 5 pm on Sunday, March 29, 2009 in the Roswell Meeting Room of the Atlanta Westin Hotel. Among those present were State Presidents Eastern Division Director, Ellen Flint, presided.
I. Congratulations were extended to National Competitions Winners (I have also included in this list winners whose names were announced after the March 29 meeting):
Composition:
Emily Tu (JR), student of Felicia Ruffman (NJ)
Joshua Green (Young Artist), student of Jennifer Barker (NJ)
Junior Piano:
Kimberly J. Hou, student of Marjorie Lee (DC)
Young Artist Brass:
Gretchen Renshaw, student of Velvet Brown (PA; Pennsylvania State University)
Chamber Music:
Red Line Saxophone Quartet, Chien-Kwan Lin, coach (NY; Eastman School of Music)
Doug O'Connor, soprano saxophone
Brandon Kies, alto saxophone
Gui Qun, tenor saxophone
Quinn Elliott Lewis, baritone saxophone
Congratulations also to
Emerson Millar (2nd place, JR String), student of Linda Case (NY)
David Kim (3rd place, JR Woodwind), student of Ju Young Lee (NJ)
Yi-Yang Chen (2nd place, SR Piano), student of Douglas Humpherys (NY)
Keir GoGwilt (2nd place, SR String), student of Lewis Kaplan (NY)
Eryn LeCroy (2nd place, SR Voice), student of Dauri Shippey (NJ)
Alexy Ivanchencko (2nd place, YA Piano), student of Veda Zuponcic (NJ)
Quinn Elliott Lewis (3rd place, YA Woodwind), student of Chien-Kwan Lin (NY)
II. Mary Lynne Bennett, NCTM (WV), 2008-09 National Certification Commissioner (Eastern Division) noted that Carleen Graff, NCTM (NH) will assume this position for the 2009-11 biennium.
III. Several state leaders announced the dates and venues for upcoming state conferences:
Connecticut MTA State Conference; November 7, 2009; West Connecticut State University (Open)
West Virginia MTA State Conference; October 30 - 31, 2009; Fairmont State University
New York MTA State Conference; October 16 - 18, 2009; Eastman School of Music
Quad-State Conference (ME, NH, VT, MA); October 2 - 3, 2009; Plymouth State University
New Jersey MTA State Conference; November 21 - 22, 2009; Place to be announced
IV. Ellen Flint presented a statement on the MTNA Financial Stabilization Plan, which was approved by the MTNA Board of Directors on Friday, March 27, 2009 (see "Statement on the Budget"). Following the reading of the statement, discussion was lively and constructive suggestions were made.
The majority of those present acknowledged that the current global economic situation required decisive action on the part of the MTNA Board of Directors and appreciated that, while the approved plan calls for rigorous measures, including the suspension of the Leadership Summit for one year (September 2009), member benefits and benefits to states and local associations will not be cut. In light of the one-year suspension of the Leadership Summit, many expressed concern for the integrity of leadership development efforts. Those present were assured that the Leadership Summit Planning Committee would meet as scheduled on Tuesday, March 31 and, in addition to giving consideration to programming for future Leadership Summits, would consider ways to continue leadership development programs during and beyond the hiatus year. Those present at the March 29 meeting offered several very constructive suggestions for leadership development:
Discussion Board (with secure access) for State Leaders;
Inclusion of State Leader sessions at the Annual Conference (might be held during the Saturday Pre-Conference Session or perhaps a Leadership Development Track at the Annual Conference)
Leadership Webinars;
Video Conferencing;
A State Leaders Facebook
Those present at the meeting were encouraged to renew their memberships as early as possible, but certainly by the deadline, and asked to encourage non-member colleagues to join MTNA. Many were unaware of the degree to which the MTNA operating budget depends upon membership dues (52% of the MTNA operating budget is funded by membership dues). It was noted that the MTNA Membership Office needs to "be aggressive in going after membership renewal." Many felt that attaching a "penalty" to late renewal would not be untoward. Others suggested that a kind of incentive program might be implemented: a rebate for early renewal; standard fee (raise higher than CPI) for renewal by the deadline; and a penalty for late renewal. It was also suggested that
MTNA is a professional organization and should conduct all business, particularly with regards membership renewal, accordingly (i.e., assessing penalties for late renewal should not be considered "unprofessional")
the deadline for renewal needs to be made clear;
E-mail renewal reminders are better than reminders sent by USPS;
E-blasts re: renewal would be helpful;
Implement the use of electronic invoicing
automatic renewal (via credit card) should be considered (along the lines of AAA memberships: "Your membership expires on xxxxx. Unless we receive word to the contrary, your credit card ending in "1234" will be charged in the amount of $xxx.xx")
Several state leaders noted that, in light of the difficult economic situation, their states were not planning to increase the state dues for 2009-10.
The financial effects on the MTNA budget of the Annual Conference were also discussed. Several constructive recommendations were made pertaining to timely registration, since registration numbers affect not only the annual MTNA budget, but also have an effect upon the Association's ability to attract exhibitors to the conference. The MTNA Conference Planning Committee was encouraged to find ways to get the membership to commit to the annual conference and to commit early by
offering incentives for early registration (free tickets-perhaps to an area attraction; discounted dining tickets at nearby restaurants; etc.);
considering registration deposits for the conference (many members may not have the full registration fee "in hand" for a very early commitment, but might be able to make a "good faith" deposit (deposit could be "non-refundable" after a certain date; incentives offered).
IV. The meeting adjourned at 6:15 pm.
09/04/2009
MTNA National Conference
Eastern Division Meeting
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Atlanta, GA
Meeting Summary
Thirty members of the MTNA Eastern Division, representing 13 states, including the District of Columbia, met at 5 pm on Sunday, March 29, 2009 in the Roswell Meeting Room of the Atlanta Westin Hotel. Among those present were State Presidents Eastern Division Director, Ellen Flint, presided.
I. Congratulations were extended to National Competitions Winners (I have also included in this list winners whose names were announced after the March 29 meeting):
Composition:
Emily Tu (JR), student of Felicia Ruffman (NJ)
Joshua Green (Young Artist), student of Jennifer Barker (NJ)
Junior Piano:
Kimberly J. Hou, student of Marjorie Lee (DC)
Young Artist Brass:
Gretchen Renshaw, student of Velvet Brown (PA; Pennsylvania State University)
Chamber Music:
Red Line Saxophone Quartet, Chien-Kwan Lin, coach (NY; Eastman School of Music)
Doug O'Connor, soprano saxophone
Brandon Kies, alto saxophone
Gui Qun, tenor saxophone
Quinn Elliott Lewis, baritone saxophone
Congratulations also to
Emerson Millar (2nd place, JR String), student of Linda Case (NY)
David Kim (3rd place, JR Woodwind), student of Ju Young Lee (NJ)
Yi-Yang Chen (2nd place, SR Piano), student of Douglas Humpherys (NY)
Keir GoGwilt (2nd place, SR String), student of Lewis Kaplan (NY)
Eryn LeCroy (2nd place, SR Voice), student of Dauri Shippey (NJ)
Alexy Ivanchencko (2nd place, YA Piano), student of Veda Zuponcic (NJ)
Quinn Elliott Lewis (3rd place, YA Woodwind), student of Chien-Kwan Lin (NY)
II. Mary Lynne Bennett, NCTM (WV), 2008-09 National Certification Commissioner (Eastern Division) noted that Carleen Graff, NCTM (NH) will assume this position for the 2009-11 biennium.
III. Several state leaders announced the dates and venues for upcoming state conferences:
Connecticut MTA State Conference; November 7, 2009; West Connecticut State University (Open)
West Virginia MTA State Conference; October 30 - 31, 2009; Fairmont State University
New York MTA State Conference; October 16 - 18, 2009; Eastman School of Music
Quad-State Conference (ME, NH, VT, MA); October 2 - 3, 2009; Plymouth State University
New Jersey MTA State Conference; November 21 - 22, 2009; Place to be announced
IV. Ellen Flint presented a statement on the MTNA Financial Stabilization Plan, which was approved by the MTNA Board of Directors on Friday, March 27, 2009 (see "Statement on the Budget"). Following the reading of the statement, discussion was lively and constructive suggestions were made.
The majority of those present acknowledged that the current global economic situation required decisive action on the part of the MTNA Board of Directors and appreciated that, while the approved plan calls for rigorous measures, including the suspension of the Leadership Summit for one year (September 2009), member benefits and benefits to states and local associations will not be cut. In light of the one-year suspension of the Leadership Summit, many expressed concern for the integrity of leadership development efforts. Those present were assured that the Leadership Summit Planning Committee would meet as scheduled on Tuesday, March 31 and, in addition to giving consideration to programming for future Leadership Summits, would consider ways to continue leadership development programs during and beyond the hiatus year. Those present at the March 29 meeting offered several very constructive suggestions for leadership development:
Discussion Board (with secure access) for State Leaders;
Inclusion of State Leader sessions at the Annual Conference (might be held during the Saturday Pre-Conference Session or perhaps a Leadership Development Track at the Annual Conference)
Leadership Webinars;
Video Conferencing;
A State Leaders Facebook
Those present at the meeting were encouraged to renew their memberships as early as possible, but certainly by the deadline, and asked to encourage non-member colleagues to join MTNA. Many were unaware of the degree to which the MTNA operating budget depends upon membership dues (52% of the MTNA operating budget is funded by membership dues). It was noted that the MTNA Membership Office needs to "be aggressive in going after membership renewal." Many felt that attaching a "penalty" to late renewal would not be untoward. Others suggested that a kind of incentive program might be implemented: a rebate for early renewal; standard fee (raise higher than CPI) for renewal by the deadline; and a penalty for late renewal. It was also suggested that
MTNA is a professional organization and should conduct all business, particularly with regards membership renewal, accordingly (i.e., assessing penalties for late renewal should not be considered "unprofessional")
the deadline for renewal needs to be made clear;
E-mail renewal reminders are better than reminders sent by USPS;
E-blasts re: renewal would be helpful;
Implement the use of electronic invoicing
automatic renewal (via credit card) should be considered (along the lines of AAA memberships: "Your membership expires on xxxxx. Unless we receive word to the contrary, your credit card ending in "1234" will be charged in the amount of $xxx.xx")
Several state leaders noted that, in light of the difficult economic situation, their states were not planning to increase the state dues for 2009-10.
The financial effects on the MTNA budget of the Annual Conference were also discussed. Several constructive recommendations were made pertaining to timely registration, since registration numbers affect not only the annual MTNA budget, but also have an effect upon the Association's ability to attract exhibitors to the conference. The MTNA Conference Planning Committee was encouraged to find ways to get the membership to commit to the annual conference and to commit early by
offering incentives for early registration (free tickets-perhaps to an area attraction; discounted dining tickets at nearby restaurants; etc.);
considering registration deposits for the conference (many members may not have the full registration fee "in hand" for a very early commitment, but might be able to make a "good faith" deposit (deposit could be "non-refundable" after a certain date; incentives offered).
IV. The meeting adjourned at 6:15 pm.
03/04/2009
STATEMENT ON THE BUDGET
to
MTNA DIVISIONS
Sunday, March 29, 2009
In June 2008, the MTNA Board of Directors, acting upon the recommendations of the Finance Committee, approved a very conservative budget for FY 2009. We tightened our belts and weathered slumps in the financial markets that soon, in the last quarter of 2008, became a financial crisis so severe that many experts likened it to the Great Depression of the early 20th century. As the health of the global economy continued to worsen throughout the first quarter of 2009, Gary Ingle, Executive Director & CEO of MTNA, took swift action at MTNA Headquarters to reduce expenditures and streamline operations in all areas of the home office. Travel was severely curtailed and three staff positions-one full-time and two part-time positions-were cut; other cost-cutting measures, too, were implemented, all in order to protect the cash reserves of MTNA.
As all of you know, the economic situation in which we now find ourselves is nothing short of "wretched." Recent small "blips" in the market indices give us hope that the economy may be turning around, but it is far too early to predict an end to this current crisis. As much as we all would like to be optimistic and believe that the end of the crisis is near, the MTNA leadership team must, for the good of the Association and its membership, proceed from a position of informed caution in order to protect the Association as a whole, preserve our core values, and serve the membership. Thus, on Friday, March 27, 2009, the MTNA Board of Directors unanimously approved a three-year, four-phase "Financial Stabilization Plan" to address three key issues: 1) ensuring the solvency of the Association through the end of FY 2009; 2) rebuilding cash reserves over the course of the next three years; and 3) laying a foundation for the future fiscal health of the Association.
This plan initially calls for a budget for FY 2010 that is based upon even more conservative revenue projections and more liberal expenditures than the budget of FY 2009. The budget also creates significant six-figure cushions of cash reserves for 2010, 2011, and 2012. Toward that end, discretionary expenditures, that is, those expenditures over which we have control, will continue to be cut or reduced. Operations in the home office will be further streamlined. Several actions affect the existing schedule of the MTNA Board of Directors and include the elimination of the December meeting of the MTNA Board of Directors, postponement of the July Board meeting until September, and holding the rescheduled Board meeting at National Headquarters in Cincinnati. Finally, the annual Leadership Summit will be suspended for one year. The Leadership Summit Planning Committee, however, will continue its work and view the 2010 hiatus as an opportunity to review, reshape, and reinvigorate Leadership Summit programming for the future.
These were not easy decisions for the Board to make, and they were not made in haste or without thoughtful and painful deliberation and debate. Yes, these may seem, at first blush, like severe measures, but we are living through one of the most severe economic crises in the history of our nation. Be assured that these decisions were made based upon a realistic, penetrating, and informed analysis of the current global economic situation and upon the results of exhaustive research conducted by the MTNA staff in the area of revenue-to-expenditure trends in membership dues driven non-profit organizations like ours.
These decisions were made in order to allow MTNA to operate from a position of increased strength in the future and to preserve the member programs and services upon which we each depend. In addition, these decisions ensure that cost-cutting measures do not have to be passed along to state affiliates or to Local Associations. Services like the member benefits package, educational and professional development programs for members, student-centered events, and liability insurance for State and Local Association events and activities, to name only a few of our most valuable programs, will continue unabated. Now, unlike so many non-profit arts organizations and agencies across the country that are languishing or that have disappeared entirely, MTNA, with your help and support, has an excellent chance not only to survive this crisis but to emerge from the crisis as a more vigorous and vital leader among arts organizations.
The members of the Board of Directors now call upon each of you to help. As you review your membership dues statement for 2010, consider carefully the incomparable value of MTNA services and programs to you, your family, and your students. If you can, renew your membership early, but certainly by the renewal deadline. Work actively to recruit new members to our Association in order to build and strengthen our community of music teachers and performers and ensure the viability of our chosen profession for the future. Remember that MTNA is only as strong as its membership. Step up to leadership positions within your Local and State Associations. Stay informed about your Association by reading your AMT and visiting the MTNA Web site regularly, participate actively in the Association, and communicate your ideas, concerns, and suggestions to your leaders-your Local Association President, your State President, your Division Director, and the MTNA staff. And please don't forget the Forum Discussion Boards; these discussion boards allow you to communicate with the entire membership of MTNA. The MTNA staff and leadership team depend upon the creative thinking and informed perspectives of all of you, so please think of the discussion boards as a communication tool as valuable as your cell phone!
Together, we'll get through these difficult times. It is a privilege and an honor to serve you as your Division Director.
Thank you.
03/04/2009
THE MEMBERS OF MTNA EASTERN DIVISION CONGRATULATE THE FOLLOWING NATIONAL WINNERS
Composition:
Emily Tu (JR), student of Felicia Ruffman (NJ)
Joshua Green (Young Artist), student of Jennifer Barker (NJ)
Junior Piano:
Kimberly J. Hou, student of Marjorie Lee (DC)
Young Artist Brass:
Gretchen Renshaw, student of Velvet Brown (PA; Pennsylvania State University)
Chamber Music:
Red Line Saxophone Quartet, Chien-Kwan Lin, coach (NY; Eastman School of Music)
Doug O'Connor, soprano saxophone
Brandon Kies, alto saxophone
Gui Qun, tenor saxophone
Quinn Elliott Lewis, baritone saxophone
Congratulations also to
Emerson Millar (2nd place, JR String), student of Linda Case (NY)
David Kim (3rd place, JR Woodwind), student of Ju Young Lee (NJ)
Yi-Yang Chen (2nd place, SR Piano), student of Douglas Humpherys (NY) and Winner of the Evelyn Lindblad Folland Award
Keir GoGwilt (2nd place, SR String), student of Lewis Kaplan (NY)
Eryn LeCroy (2nd place, SR Voice), student of Dauri Shippey (NJ)
Alexy Ivanchencko (2nd place, YA Piano), student of Veda Zuponcic (NJ)
Quinn Elliott Lewis (3rd place, YA Woodwind), student of Chien-Kwan Lin (NY)
~~ 2010 Eastern Division Competitions ~~
January 8 - 9, 2010
Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY.
Rehearsals are scheduled for Friday, January 8, 2010
Competitions will begin at 8:00 am on Saturday, January 9, 2010
Additional information regarding travel, lodging, and schedules will be posted to the Division Portal and on the MTNA Competitions Web site as it becomes available.
07/10/2008
West Central Division Dinner
Music Teachers National Association National Conference
Sunday, March 29, 2009 following the WCD Meeting 6:30-8:00 pm
Atlanta's landmark restaurant, Pittypat's Porch is known for its traditional southern fare,
charming d飯r and gracious southern hospitality. Please join us!
Pittypat's Porch Southern Diningone block from the conference hotel
25 International Boulevard Atlanta, Georgia
West Central Division Dinner 09 Form
07/10/2008
West Central Division
Dinner
Music Teachers National Association National Conferen
ce
Sunday, M
arch 29, 2009 following the WCD Meeting 6:30-8:00 pm
Atlanta's landmark rest
aurant, Pittypat's Porch is known for its
traditional southern fare,
charming d飯r and gracious southe
rn hospitality. Please join us!
Pittypat's Porch Southern
Diningone block from the conference hotel
25 International Bo
ulevard Atlant
a, Georgia
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West Central Division Dinner 09 Form
18/07/2008
PLEASE JOIN ME on the Arts Awareness & Advocacy Discussion Board (and encourage your friends and colleagues to join in the dialogue).
Ellen Flint
2009 MTNA-Eastern Division Performance Competitions
Eastern Division welcomes Robert Scott Beard as the 2009 MTNA-Eastern Division Competitions Chair! We also welcome Stephanie Bruning of Catonville, MD as the new Coordinator of the Young Artist and Chamber Music Performance Competitions. Deborah Gers and Jacqueline Herbein, who bring incredible talents and skills to their positions, will continue as Senior Performance and Junior Performance Competitions Coordinators, respectively. Thank you all for your commitment to MTNA and the work of Eastern Division.
As you know, the 2009 Eastern Division Performance Competitions will be January 9-10, 2009 in the exquisite facilities of the School of Music of West Chester University of Pennsylvania in West Chester, PA. The competitions and recital will take place iSwope Music Building. We are extremely grateful to Timothy Blair, Dean of the School of Music, and Patricia Powell, Assistant Professor of Piano Pedagogy, for making these magnificent facility available to us.
Following is the general schedule for Competitions Weekend:
General Schedule for Competitions Weekend:
Friday, January 9, 2009:
Registration & Check-in will begin at 11 am; Swope Music Building
Rehearsals (12 noon - 11 pm); all entrants should make travel
arrangements in order to be at the competition site not later than
12 noon on this date; (rehearsal schedules cannot be finalized until
the first week in December, after all state competitions are
concluded, so entrants must make every effort to be at the
competition site by 12 noon on the rehearsal date)
Dinner Meeting of Division Presidents: 6 - 9 pm (place TBD)
Saturday, January 10, 2009:
Performance Competitions: 8 am - 4 pm; Swope Music Building
Winners' Recital: 4:30 - 6:30 pm (subject to change based on final
competitions schedule)
West Chester University is located approximately 25 miles west of Philadelphia. For air travel to West Chester, use the Philadelphia airport (25 miles from West Chester); airport code PHL. For travel by automobile, detailed and current directions from all points can be found on the West Chester University Web site at http://www.wcupa.edu/_visitors/directions.asp.
Information regarding parking will be posted at a later date and sent to entrants, teachers, and parents.
Nearby hotels (rates range from approximately $72.00 - $235.00 among the three hotels listed, as of July 15, 2008):
Microtel Inn and Suites
500 Willowbrook Lane
West Chester PA 19382
http://www.microtelinn.com
Reservations: (610) 738-9111
Holiday Inn West Chester
943 South High StreeWest Chester, PA 19382
http://www.ichotelsgroup.com
Reservations: 1-800-972-2796
Comfort Inn Suites Brandywine
1310 Wilmington Pike, Route 202West Chester, PA 19382-8218
http://www.comfortinn.com
Reservations: (610) 399-4600
General Schedule for Competitions Weekend:
Friday, January 9, 2009:
Registration & Check-in will begin at 11 am; Swope Music Building
Rehearsals (12 noon - 11 pm); all entrants should make travel
arrangements in order to be at the competition site not later than
12 noon on this date; (rehearsal schedules cannot be finalized until
the first week in December, after all state competitions are
concluded, so entrants must make every effort to be at the
competition site by 12 noon on the rehearsal date)
Dinner Meeting of Division Presidents: 6 - 9 pm (place TBD)
Saturday, January 10, 2009:
Performance Competitions: 8 am - 4 pm; Swope Music Building
Winners' Recital: 4:30 - 6:30 pm (subject to change based on final
competitions schedule)
As you continue to plan your 2008-09 teaching schedule, please include the 2009 Eastern Division Competitions on your calendar and make plans to attend this exciting and inspiring annual event. Additionally, please consider volunteering to help at the competitions--the Competitions Chair and Coordinators always need volunteers to serve as monitors, greeters, registration desk presiders, etc.
26/03/2008
26/03/2008
Easter Division News, March 2008
Eastern Division had a successful meeting and Division competition at Penn State University in January. A special thanks to our hard-working competition coordinators and Competition Chair, Ellen Flint.
The meeting of the State Presidents provided time for us to share problems and success stories. The State Presidents appreciate this time to meet together as a small group. Many of the MTNA leaders have been fielding questions about the health insurance plan: there is great anticipation to hear the details of this plan.
News from our various states is provided to show the kinds of activities and events that are successful and popular for both students and teachers in MTNA.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire is up to 107 members, a significantly higher number due to a successful recruiting effort. (Perhaps we should ask them their secret?) The Granite State Competition will be on April 12 at Plymouth State University and the State evaluations at five sites around the State on May 18.
New Jersey
Our Performathon was a huge success again. (Note: this is the event that SPAC has asked the BOD to consider using as a model for a national initiative.) On February 2nd and 3rd eleven recitals were scheduled in Bristol Chapel at Westminster Choir College. Students of all ages and levels raised $8,400.00 for the three Ronald McDonald Houses in New Jersey and money is still coming in. The Performathon will continue in March. An Adult Class at Westminster Conservatory wanted to contribute and The Young Artists Program at Westminster Conservatory will give a special concert that will contribute money to this cause. Betty Stoloff and Patricia Landy have done a terrific job organizing these events.
In March and April, there are 2 non-competitive Festivals that take place. 900 students participate. Auditions also take place in March and April and typically draw around 1000 students and generate many recitals. The Auditions are more competitive but warmly received.
An initiative to make the sponsored events more attractive to other instrumentalists has been successful. The Auditions this year will include not only pianists, but strings, woodwinds, vocalists, and Chinese instruments.
West Virginia
Nearly 40 students participated in the first concerto competition sponsored by District Six (Eastern Panhandle). Over $500 in prizes were awarded. The winners Recital will take place in May.
Several teachers throughout the state are in the beginning stages of the certification process and hope to complete the tests in the next several years. As an incentive WVMTA is offering $100 grants to teachers wishing to become certified. We also had a raffle drawing for an "all expenses" paid certification prize at our state conference in November. We hope to continue this over the next several years.
Washington DC
WMTA began a new event for the adult student: The Adult Musicale. This event offered students an opportunity to perform in a public setting and held three of the five scheduled recitals during the period from December to March.
The Gretchen Hood Competition for High School and Junior High School String Players was held in mid December. First and Second Awards were $300 and $150 for HS Seniors and $150 and $75 respectively for Junior High School students.
The bi-annual Bartok Competition for Pianists had 88 participants representing 11 studios. The winners in each age division have been invited to perform in the Winners' Concert March 25 at the Hungarian Embassy.
The Ylda Novik Memorial Concerto Competition for Pianists was held the weekend of March 1st. With two divisions, the Juniors (up thru 8th grade) play one movement from any standard concerto and the Senior division participants (open to any age) are required to perform an entire concerto from a predetermined list of concertos. The winner in the Senior Division will play with the Capital Symphony this spring. There are also prize monies distributed to the first and second place winners.
Three of the five Judged Recitals were held between December and March. The winners play in the Honors Concert held in June.
Maine
Most of the state activities are coming up in early April, just following the Denver Conference. Our state is presenting 5 different concerts called "Discovering American Music" where students, teachers, and faculty will perform American works on various instruments. These programs lead into the Spring Conference with composer Glenn Jenks who will give workshops on teaching composition in our studios; the afternoon will culminate with a recital of American music-including that of Glenn Jenks. ~~Check out our new website in Maine at www.Mainemusicteachers.org
New York
New York State reports that significant progress has been made recently to update the means of communication with the state-wide membership, as well as revamping the means of production and distribution of state publications. NYSMTA is beginning to work with a professional web services firm, by means of a member recommendation followed by board vote. We will enjoy the benefits of a re-designed newsletter and directory, the updating of each of which will be enormously facilitated. A significant amount of money will be saved by means of this paperless route. Our website will be examined and will undergo some significant improvements. Immediate communication with all of those members with email will now be a reality.
Connecticut
Local chapters have very active spring event schedules including many competitions and performances. Connecticut MTA makes use of an Online Newsletter.
Massachusetts
The Massachusetts MTA continues to run its annual events and programs, from the Musical Achievement Evaluations, to the RACE exams, student master classes, and the ever popular Bay State Contest in May. A community-oriented concert, the July Jamboree, will be held later in the summer.
Our state is proud to have two of its teachers recognized at the MTNA Conference in Denver: Dr. John McDonald, winner of the MTNA Shepherd Distinguished Composer of the Year Award, and Alison Barr, NCTM, winner of the MTNA Article of the Year Award.
Our recently-selected Teacher-of-the-Year, Shelley Reeves, NCTM, has established a new monetary "Celebrate Certification prize" to reward newly certified teachers.
The MMTA Newsletter appears regularly online. The Winter issue aired in January, and the Spring issue will follow in late May.
11/10/2007
The New Jersey MTA has had a banner year, punctuated by an innovative and successful Pe rformathon!
The 2005 fall conference wa s held November 18–19 with guest artists including Jerome Lowenthal of The Julliard School, flutist Jayn Rosenfeld and Marvin Blickenstaff.
The number of students and teachers involved in the Spring Audition s/Recitals and Piano Festival showed that these program s continue to attract the membership.
The NJMTA Chil dren Helping Children Performathon was a non-compet itive music experience for students of all ages and levels of advancement. More than 200 musicians from across the state came together to raise in excess of $11,000 for t he Child Life Program at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital.
On February 4–5, 2006, NJM TA students and teachers presented nine different recita ls free and open to the public at Westminster Choir Col lege (WCC). Performers collected donations for the C hild Life Program and additional contributions w ere accepted at each program.
Last January, the You ng Artist and Young Musicians Programs at WCC dedicated tw o recitals to this beneficiary. In addition, NJMTA mem ber Veda Zuponcic directed the Shostakovich-Mozart F estival at Rowan University and dedicated its proceeds to the Performathon.
The response was ove rwhelming—both music and generosity blended to celebrate artistry and community spirit, and NJMTA is al ready busy planning next year’s Performathon. The success of the Performathon was due in large part to Patr icia Landy, Arts Advocacy chair of NJMTA and the Perfo rmathon coordinator.
––Deborah S. Martin, NCTM
Ithaca, New York
