Paying your dues has its rewards!

Just last week I was happy to pay my dues to the Music Teachers National Association.  As a piano teacher living in Denver, CO, I pay dues to the national organization, the Colorado state organization and the Denver area chapter of the association.  My dues totaled $140 for the year.  In exchange, I receive special discounts to certain retailers, access to insurance options, a subscription to the bi-monthly magazine that MTNA Publishes, American Music Teacher, as well as tons of networking opportunities with other music teachers. 
More importantly, my students receive tons of performance opportunities as a result of me belonging to the organization.  This past year many of my students participated in Achievement Day, an event that encourages musical growth through a variety of activities including evaluation of scales, arpeggios, chords, ear training, music history, music theory, and performance.  Many found it inspiring and motivating and I loved the feedback they received as affirmation of my weekly evaluations at piano lessons.
The Colorado State Music Teachers Association also holds an annual theory event called Student Theory Activity.  This is a rigorous test that evaluates students on their theory skills.  They usually hold this event in conjunction with the Rising Stars Event that offers a non-competitive and competitive performance track.  Students can win prize money and receive comments on their performance.
Finally MTNA holds an annual competition every year for piano and composition.  This is a major competition where winners can go on to participate in state, regional, and national levels.  I have not had a student participate in one of these but its nice to know the opportunity is there!
Personally, I have made so many lasting friendships and business contacts through MTNA.  In fact, most of my students were referred to me through the Denver chapter and I have to say it is a truly wonderful studio with parents and students who respect my teaching abilities and policies.  More importantly, I have met wonderful teachers through CSMTA and DAMTA that have inspired me to become a better teacher and shared with me their own business practices and policies. 

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