MMTA Newsletter January/February, 2012 MMTA President's Letter

MMTA Newsletter January/February, 2012
10800 Lyndale Ave S, Ste. 263
Bloomington, MN 55420
(952) 345-0629
www.mnmusicteachers.com
mmta@mnmusicteachers.com
MMTA Board of Directors
� Kirsten Levorson, NCTM
President
� Jill Kilzer, NCTM
President-Elect
� Camille Buddecke, NCTM
VP-Piano Contests
� Ann Mishler, NCTM
VP-Convention
� Carol Gangwish, NCTM
VP-Piano Educational
Programs
� Kevin Carlson
VP-Vocal/Instrumental
Programs
� Janice Narlock
VP-Finance
� Dr. Rebecca Daws
VP-Membership
� Sheryl Vande Kamp, NCTM
Recording Secretary
� Kim Nichols
Treasurer
� Sue Krebsbach, NCTM
Immediate Past President
In this issue: page
Deadline Reminders ............ 2
Voice Contest Music ............ 2
Piano Contest List Updates . 2
Local Associations ............... 3
Voice Syllabus Updates ....... 5
MTNA Foundation ............... 6
MusicLink News ................... 7
MMTA Convention .............. 9
Teacher Duet Contest ......... 10
Nominating Committee ....... 11
Music Bridges ...................... 13
Early Childhood Music ......... 13
IMTF .................................... 15
MMTA Website Updates ..... 15
MTNA Competitions ............ 17
Music Lovers Tour ............... 23
2012 MMTA Convention ..... 24
MMTA President’s Letter
Happy New Year!
This month, MMTA launches its newest student program:
the Artistic Ambassador Competition, connecting outstanding
college musicians with Minnesota communities.
The Artistic Ambassador is the brainchild of our very smart and
creative Vice President for Membership, Rebecca Daws. A couple
years ago, she looked at MMTA membership statistics which
indicate that most of our members are in the over 40 age category. Just about 10% of
our membership is in the under 30 category. Rebecca asked, what can we do to attract
new and younger members?
At about the same time, the MMTA Board was talking frequently about three additional
issues – how do we better serve members in Greater Minnesota, how can we promote
MMTA as an organization that serves music teachers of every instrument and voice, and
how can we promote the value of music in our society?
All of these conversational threads came together in Rebecca’s proposal to the board. In
order to attract younger members, Rebecca reasoned, we need to make them aware of
the benefits of MMTA membership when they are in college and planning their careers.
What are college music students looking for? Money and opportunities to perform.
How can we better serve our members in Greater Minnesota? Bring programs and
opportunities to underserved locations. How can we reach out to teachers of voice and
instruments other than piano? Offer appealing programs for their students. How can
we promote the value of music in our society? By presenting high quality and appealing
musical performances.
The Artistic Ambassador Competition ties together all these goals. College students in
Minnesota will audition January 28 th for the opportunity to serve as an MMTA Artistic
Ambassador. The students prepare a 15 minute program and will be prepared to discuss
their selections with the audience. Both duos and solo entries are welcome.
Selected Artistic Ambassadors will receive $600 cash awards and will participate in a two
day concert tour. This year’s tour will take excellent performers to Bemidji, where
MMTA member Margaret Maxwell has been instrumental in coordinating performances
at schools and for the general public.
Artistic Ambassadors will also receive one year’s complimentary membership in MMTA.
Many thanks to Rebecca Daws and Margaret Maxwell for their outstanding work!
Best wishes to all of you and your students in the coming year,

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
State Piano Contest Finals -
Greater MN
and
Vocal/Instrumental
Contest Finals
Deadline: January 28, 2012
2012
Piano
Contest
Materials
List
Updates
ATTENTION VOICE TEACHERS
2
State Piano Contest Finals -
Twin Cities
Deadline: February 3, 2012
Vocal/
Instrumental
Contest
Performance
Festival
February 25,
2012
Newman Center,
St. Cloud
(Voice Teachers:
Music selections
listed below)
The following outlines the two octavos for the Vocal Ensemble Performance Festival at the State Contest:
� I Am His Child, Unison/Two Part, arr. by Janet Scarcella, Alliance Music Publication, AMP-0649
� Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning, Unison, optional descant, arr. by John Helgen, Augsburg
Fortress, 0-8006-7749-8
Voice Teachers should order this music right away so students have time to learn the music in
preparation for State. The music can be ordered through Groth Music in Bloomington, MN. Their phone
number is 952-884-4772.
Voice Teachers, just a reminder, you are responsible to purchase the ensemble music for your students.
Students must have the original music to participate in the Vocal Ensemble Performance in February.
Copies are not allowed.
We are also pleased to welcome back Al Hawkins as the Director for Voice Ensemble. Thank you.
Intermediate A
� “Serenata de Siero” will NOT be permanently out of print due to demand here in Minnesota. Also:
the “c” in the final measure (ms. 53) should be changed to a “d” to fit the arpeggiated chords.
This change has been confirmed with the publisher (FJH) and they will correct it in
subsequent printings.
� “Waltz in A Minor, Op. 12 No. 2” by Grieg: Please make sure to purchase the ALFRED EDITION.
No other editions are to be used. NOTE: The correct item number is (Alfred:4835)

Local Associations
Kay Hawkins, NCTM, Chair
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
Alexandria Area Music Teachers Association
� Saturday, Jan. 28, 9:00-10:30 a.m. – “The Bridges Program”. Presenter: Marcia Benson. Location: the home of
Karen Erickson, 910 Westwood Drive SW, Alexandria.
Arrowhead Music Teachers Association
� Thursday, Jan. 19, 9:30-11:00am - “The Achievement Program.” Presenter: Dr. Andrew Hisey. Location: Lutheran
Church of the Good Shepherd, 1325 N. 45th Avenue East, Duluth
Central Minnesota Music Teachers Association
� Friday, Jan. 6, 9:00-11:30 a.m. - “Celebrating the Birthday of the Piano Nocturne: the Marriage of Tradition and
Innovation in Lowell Lieberman's Nocturnes”. Presenter: Ann DuHamel. Location: St John's University, Choral
Rehearsal room.
� Friday, Feb.3, 9:00-11:30 a.m. – “Music from an Historian’s Point of View”. Presenter: Dan Younker. Location: the
home of Judy Feneis, 615 7 th St. N., Sartell.
Lakes Area Independent Music Teachers
� Friday, Jan. 20, 9:30 a.m. Set-up for Preliminary contest at First Lutheran Church. Lunch at 11:30 (Restaurant TBA)
� Friday, Feb. 24, 11:30 a.m. Lunch. Hostess: Holly Dunton, 2136 Brookridge, DL Sr. Scholarship applications due.
Minnesota River Valley Music Teachers Association
� Tuesday, Jan. 17, 10:30 a.m. (Business Meeting 9:30) – “Teaching Jazz Piano – Where Do I Begin?” Presenter:
Doug Rhodes. Location: Discovery Methodist Church, 275 Lake Drive East, Chanhassen.
Minnesota Valley Music Teachers Association – Mankato
� Friday, Feb. 10, 9:00-11:00 a.m. – “Strong Reading Skills: Foundations in Musical Success”. Presenter: Dr. Rebecca
Shockley. Location: Twin Rivers Art Center in Downtown Mankato.
Northwest Suburban Music Teachers Association
� Friday, Jan. 6, 9:30 a.m. – “Teaching Artistic Pedaling”. Presnter: Dr. Kathie Faricy. Location: TBA
� Friday, Feb. 3, 9:30 a.m. – “The Life and Music of Bartok”. Presenter: Dr. Marianne Bryan. Location: the home of
Ann Mishler, 14421 92 nd Ave N, Maple Grove.
Rochester Area Music Teachers Association
� Thursday, Jan. 12, 9:00 a.m. – Master Class. Presenter: Dr. John Strauss. Location: Christ United Methodist
Church, Rochester.
� Thursday, Feb. 9, 9:00 a.m. – “Studio Issues – An Open Forum”. Moderator: Jenna Popp. Location: Petit
Music, Eyota.
St. Paul Piano Teachers Association
� Tuesday, Jan. 10, 9:45-11:30 a.m. – Topic TBA. Presenter: Dr. Paul Wirth. Location: Schmitt Music, Roseville.
� Tuesday, Feb. 14, 9:45-11:30 a.m. – Group Discussion: “Repertoire We Love”. Location: Schmitt Music, Roseville.
South Suburban Music Teachers Association
� Friday, Jan. 6, 10:00 a.m. - Business meeting. 11:00 a.m. "Assigning Repertoire: The Right Piece at the Right Time".
Presenter: Dr. Donald L. Patterson. Location: Christ Church, 12925 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley.
� Friday, Feb. 3, 10:00-noon. Meeting at Schmitt Music.
West Suburban Music Teachers Association
� Friday, Jan. 6, 10:00-11:30 a.m. – Surprise Topic. Presenter: Dr. Paul Wirth. Location: Edina Schmitt
Music – Galleria.
Willmar Music Teachers Association
� Saturday, Jan. 14, 10:00 a.m. – “Creative Tools for Artistic Independence: Helping Students to Develop a Personal
Voice”. Presenter: Dr. Andrew Hisey. Location: Bethel Lutheran Church, 411 Becker Ave. SW, Willmar.
3

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
4

Calling All Voice Teachers!
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
VOICE SYLLABUS Update
The 2011 Voice Syllabus will soon be on the MMTA website! Due to other MMTA initiatives, we are
targeting the first of the year. Please note the following revisions made since the rollout in June:
Level 3
� Written Theory #2, page 23: revised the first sentence to read ”Write out the ascending and
descending scales in whole notes in whichever clef you sing.”
� Skill Requirements #2 and 4, page 26: changed the music examples to A minor.
� Sight Reading, page 27: added Eb to the keys and revised wording on #2 to read “Identify the major key, name the
notes of a one octave scale and the (tonic) triad.”
Level 4
� Written Theory #2, page 37: deleted “parallel” and revised the example to read “Write out the relative harmonic
minor scale for F Major.”
� Sight Reading, page 42: corrected solfeggio for treble clef to read “ti”.
Glossary
� Passagio, page 69: revised the definition to read “The transition area between a series of notes, usually occurring
between registers of the voice passage from the chest to head.”
� Vibrato, page 71: revised the definition to read “In singing, a tremulous effect caused by very rapid partial
interruptions of the tone.”
Appendix 2
� Vocal Literature for the Female Voice: added Part III to the First Book of Soprano Solos
We are also diligently working on Appendix 3 to offer a list of repertoire for the Male Voice. The Vocal Literature for
the Male Voice will be posted on the MMTA website.
We need your feedback too! As you utilize the Voice Syllabus, please provide feedback to the Voice Program
Development Committee members.
Kristen Donovan Voice Exam Chair Kdonovan514@gmail.com
Dr. Shirley Holzer Program Director expressivevoice@v990.com
Mary Kirchner Advisor jkkirchner@msn.com
Liz Raihala Voice Contest and Young Artist Chair liz@raihala.net
Darlene Zabadal Vocal Program Development Chair and
Final Contest Site Administrator
darlenezabadal@comcast.net
VOICE PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 2011-2012 INITIATIVES
We thought it would be helpful to share our initiatives for this school year. Our top priority has been testing the new
Voice Syllabus and incorporating edits into the MMTA website. We are very excited to offer this tool to assist teachers
and students.
2012 MMTA Convention: Based on feedback from the Voice Syllabus presentation at the 2011 MMTA Convention, we
are currently outlining a presentation entitled “How to prepare for MMTA Voice Exams.” Our goal is to provide
teachers with tips on how to budget their lesson time to incorporate the Voice Syllabus. We hope to provide a
hands-on approach with practical steps for students and teachers.
(Continued on pg. 7)
5

MTNA Foundation - Raeanna Gislason, Chair
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
Here we go, 2012! January starts out with a blast of energy for the Music Teachers National Association student
competitions at the Division level. Several of our Minnesota students will be going to Boulder, Colorado, January 13-
15, to compete for the opportunity to advance to the MTNA final competition in New York City in March. The MTNA
Foundation Fund helps to provide funding for awards won via these performance competitions.
Teacher colleagues who have made significant contributions to the art of music and the profession of music teaching
are recognized at the New York City convention via several different awards given by the MTNA Foundation. Included
are the MTNA Achievement Award, the Distinguished Service Award, the Francis Clark Keyboard Pedagogy Award, and
the MTNA Teacher of the Year Award. Authors are rewarded for their literary contributions with the American Music
Teacher Article of the Year Award.
The Foundation’s Teacher Enrichment Grant program enables teachers to apply for grants to fund
further musical study and educational or research projects. Teachers entering the profession are
encouraged through the Student Achievement Recognition (StAR) award program which grants free
one year active national or collegiate memberships to outstanding graduating music students.
Former MTNA president, Joan Reist, NCTM, from Lincoln, Nebraska, is the current chair of the
MTNA Foundation Fund. She is an excellent resource and cheerleader for all aspects of the
Foundation’s activities. Her email address is jreist1@unl.edu and I know she would be delighted to
answer any questions you may have about Foundation awards and grant opportunities.
Happy New Year! Hope to see many of you in New York City when we honor Sue Freeman Dopp
Haugen with the MTNA Foundation Fellow Award!
EACH ONE REACH ONE
Sue Freeman
Dopp Haugen
MMTA President
2003-2005
At the MTNA National convention in March-April,
2011, MTNA launched their membership campaign
for the coming year. The tagline captures the
networking idea that is so important to the
organization. It also highlights the importance of
EACH of us. Many of us joined MMTA because of ONE
other person. When we make that connection, we
both grow. So REACH out to someone new or to
someone within the organization, because we
become larger not just with new members, but also
by making membership more meaningful to those
already here. THEN, work to recruit ONE new
member this year! If you are excited about some
ways you and your students have benefited from
MMTA, share that with another teacher. Think of one
person you know who would benefit from MTNA/
MMTA membership and R E A C H ! ! !
An added benefit to new members in Minnesota is a
first year rebate of $30. Spread the word! The
membership year is July 1 - June 30.
6

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
(Continued from pg. 5)
In addition, we are looking for new ideas and facilitators for voice sessions at the 2012 MMTA Convention. We are
especially interested in MMTA Members interested in presenting a session on Teaching Kids to Sing, What Colleges are
Looking For and How We Can Best Prepare our Students. Please contact Jeannine Robinett at robinejm@msn.com
MMTA Voice Teacher Roster: We are trying to develop a group distribution for MMTA Voice Teachers. Although we
plan to utilize the MMTA Newsletter as a communication tool, there are times that we would like to communicate to
you directly. We would like your feedback and ideas to further enhance the programs. If you are interested in being
on this distribution list, please email Darlene Zabadal, at darlenezabadal@comcast.net by December 30, 2011.
Thank you for your support!
7
MusicLink News
Sue Wege, State Chair
The MusicLink Foundation has set a goal of reaching 5,000 students nationwide by the end of 2012 which will be their
20 th Anniversary. The current total as of this writing is 4,753 so we’re well on our way to meeting that goal.
Minnesota, as always, is doing its part and has added 12 new MusicLink teachers since June 1 st . Please contact me if
you wish to become involved.
Apart from teaching a needy child at a reduced rate, another way to be involved in supporting the Musiclink program is
to participate in the MusicLink Playathon. This fun event is scheduled for the weekend of Feb. 11-12, 2012. Forms are
posted on the MMTA website and the registration deadline is Jan. 30 th . Click here for a list of frequently asked
questions about the Playathon, but if you have other questions, please let me know. 651-458-0143
swege71@comcast.net
Playathon Documents: (Please contact the MMTA Office to request a paper copy of these items)
� Kids Helping Kids
� Registration Form
� Pledge Card
� FAQ

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
8

2012 MMTA Convention: The Art of Teaching
Ann Mishler, NCTM, Vice President - Convention
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
The Committee has been busy planning for our next Convention and has chosen “The Art of Teaching” as our 2012
Convention Theme. Dr. Peter Mack will give the keynote address entitled “The Art of the Phrase”. He will also give
talks on “Well-known Intermediate Pieces, and How I Teach Them” and “Motivating your Students”—Tricks to Make
Practice Painless. He is being very generous with his time and is excited about coming to Minnesota!
Please think about having your students apply for a spot in the Masterclass. The audition form can be found in this
issue of the newsletter as well as on the website. I can tell from my initial contact with Peter Mack that he will be a lot
of fun! I think he will give the students and teachers a wonderful experience.
Here is an Update on the Crowne Plaza West:
The Crowne Plaza has dedicated $5 million for a fresh, new look, with several renovation enhancements already
complete and several yet to be completed by May 2013. The garden courtyard has been re-designed with new
concrete pavement and brick garden walls filled with trees and evergreen bushes highlighted with 18 4-foot copper
pots filled with the season’s freshest floral arrangements. The Regency Auditorium has lavishly designed new dark
stained wood doors, comfortable seating, carpet, floor to ceiling window treatments, lighting, chandeliers, wall sconces
and audio visual system. In addition, the Europa Dining Room and Creekside Café have new design and guest rooms
have new carpet and contemporary lightening. The Health and Fitness Center has had a complete renovation on all
levels including the massage spa, pool area, cardio workout area, racquetball courts, weight and training room, locker
and shower room and all new rooftop patio furniture. So as you can see, they’ll be ready to welcome us once again for
our annual Convention. Please mark your calendars, make your arrangements and plan to join us for another great
educational experience!
On a personal note, I’d like to thank everyone for welcoming me as a new member of MMTA. I’ve been busy learning
about the many wonderful programs that MMTA has to offer and I am excited to be a part of this vital organization.
Ann Mishler
annmishler@gmail.com
MMTA Convention Survey Summary
Liz Jennings, MMTA Convention Co-Chair
This fall, the MMTA convention committee asked its members to give their feedback on the idea of changing future
dates of its annual convention by one week later to accommodate the schedules of its members who teach during the
day in Minnesota school districts which have not ended by the time we usually convene in early June. The results of
the survey suggest that overall attendance at the convention would not increase by a change in dates.
Using RatePoint.com, a survey was sent to 748 member emails on October 12, 2011. 194 members responded for a
return rate of 26%. 73 % of those responding attend the convention either each year or every other year. Of those
people, respondents were almost evenly split between those who said the “dates make no difference to me. I should
still be able to attend” [with a date change], and those who answered, “The change in dates might or might not work.”
However, among those people who have not been able to attend the MMTA convention during the past years, the
majority either would still definitely not be able to attend or they answered “possibly” that they would be able to
attend with a date change.
When combined with an increase in hotel and site costs for dates other than a Monday-Tuesday configuration, we did
not receive enough of a mandate to change the existing dates outside of the second week in June. We thank
everyone who participated! The Convention Committee appreciates your opinion in this issue.
9

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
MMTA TEACHER ORIGINAL DUET COMPOSITION CONTEST REPORT - 2011-2012
Deanna Andersen, Duet Contest Chair
This year’s committee was honored to receive 9 duets from MMTA teachers, writing duets for the Primary and Junior A
categories. We were able to select one each for the Primary and Junior A categories for the 2012 Honors Concert:
� “I Like to Play Piano” by Betsy Murray (Primary)
� “Dragon Dance” by Dr. Sarah Miller (Junior A)
It has been a marvelous experience to serve as chair for this position over the last 7 years. Many thanks to those who
have served on my committee over those years, and to those who served this year: Cora Barr, Bev Krall, and Dr.
Barbara Rogers.
MMTA
Board
Minutes
Highlights
November
2011
10
� Board members reviewed the investment portfolio with advisor Brian Young.
� The Board set fees for the 2012 Convention; hired Barbara Lister-Sink as convention artist for
2013 and Ingrid Clarfield for 2014; and set convention dates of June 9-11, 2013 and June 8-10,
2014 at the Crown Plaza in Plymouth.
� The Board approved a policy effective for the 2012-2013 program year, stating that audio and
video recording will not be allowed at MMTA events.
� The Board appointed Kim Nichols as representative on the MMTA Foundation Board to fill the
term begun by Janice Narlock.

Call for Nominations
Deadline: March 1, 2012
Nominating Committee for
2011-2012:
Sue Freeman Dopp Haugen (Chair)
Nominee’s Name
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
· · · · YOUR NOMINEES FOR MMTA BOARD POSITIONS · · · ·
Street Address City/State Zip
For which position is she/he recommended?
Offices to be filled by election in 2012 (two-year terms):
� VP Piano Contests � VP Membership
� VP Finance � Recording Secretary
Please tell us about your nominee. Include information such as: former MMTA positions held; participation in
MMTA programs; and why you think this person would be a good candidate.
Please make a copy of this page for each nomination submitted.
MAIL TO: Sue Freeman Dopp Haugen, 2821 Highlands Road, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443
EMAIL TO: sue.dopp@schmittmusic.com
11

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
12

Bridges!
Lois Muelich, Program Director
BRIDGES!
Here is a brain teaser to play
To brighten your day
As 2012 plans you survey ------
Student skills and projects to portray.
BRIDGES is the way
Creativity to display.
Fun and 100 Points is part of the pay
For each student - HOO - RAY!
Use paper, paints, or clay
To partner with Dennis Agay.
To each of you I say,
Plan a BRIDGES program TODAY!
(Answer on page 23)
Fun and Fantastic Fingers
Fern Davidson, NCTM, Early Childhood Program Chair
BRIDGES!
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
SUDOKU
E R I
B G
S E D
E B D
R G E
G D S
S R E
E I S D
B S
Young children often have an active imagination. Take advantage of their creative minds with some fanciful activities.
Good hand position: Buy Matchbook cars that will fit under a small child’s hand for them to drive under their
rounded hand.
Playing on fingertips: Tell children to use their “froggie pads”. I learned this one from one of my young students! To
introduce forearm rotation and good hand position, use fingers 1-5, playing back and forth on tips, saying
“Roly-poly ever so slowly, roly-poly ever so slowly, roly-poly faster, faster, faster, faster, stop.”
Slurs: To teach drop-roll two-note slurs, pretend that finger 2 is the deep-sea diver, and finger three hooks the fish.
Other finger combinations could be used later.
Weight change: A Fitball� Activa disc can be used as a ball to stand on to feel weight change from side to side. At the
piano it can be used as a cushion to allow the student to sit higher for better tone control. Because it is filled with air,
the student can get the feel of weight change as they move from side to side. Have students play fingers 1-2-lift off, as
they rock back and forth in the direction of their playing. They can progress to 1-2-3 and longer motions.
http://www.balldynamics.com/index.php/cPath/32/sort/2a
C Scale, intervals, and simple pieces: Use Boomwackers�, colorful tuned percussion tubes. See
www.boomwackers.com. They can be used like a xylophone, though not as good tone, to demonstrate or to play
simple pieces. Other uses include using them hear the sound of tapping them on objects around the room,
removing them from the sleeve and having children play individual tubes to create a tune as a group, playing them as
rhythm instruments.
Feel free to email me with any ideas you have for working with young children so I can share them.
fbdavidson@comcast.net
!
!
!
13
!

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
14

[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
Independent Music Teachers Forum - 2012 MTNA National Conference March 24-28, New York, New York
Suzanne Greer, Chair
“Start spreading the news, I’m leaving today…”
If you don’t already know, the MTNA 2012 Conference will be held in New York City this March! Dynamic speakers
include duo-pianists Melvin Stecher and Norman Horowitz, and Benjamin Zander, conductor of the Boston
Philharmonic Orchestra since 1979. The latter will give the keynote address on Monday morning.
“I want to be a part of it – New York, New York.”
Pedagogy Saturday will include two tracks, one on Teaching Artistry, at which our very own past president, Marianne
Bryan, will be presenting. You will also meet Peter Mack at the Artistry sessions (Mack will be our MMTA Convention
clinician this June). See the finest teachers, Nelita True and Yoheved Kaplinsky, in action at the Master Classes. The
second track is entitled: “Professional Studio Institute: Building a Successful Studio in Any Kind of Economy,” and
features Lee Golloway, Beth Klingenstein, and Scott McBride Smith.
“If I can make it there, I’d make it anywhere.”
Join the whole Minnesota gang at the Conference Gala on Monday evening to celebrate Sue Freeman Dopp’s MTNA
Foundation Fellow Award.
“I want to wake up in the city that doesn’t sleep…”
There will be plenty of time to sightsee and enjoy New York. At the request of past attendees, evenings are left largely
unscheduled to have time to experience the greatest city in the world! This is a conference not to miss. A wealth of
information regarding the conference can be found in your December/January issue of AMT. I can’t wait to go - Hope
to see you there!!!
MMTA Website FAQs
Q. How do I log in for the first time?
A. Click “Log In” at the top of the MMTA home page,
type in your email address, then click “Request
Password”. A password and additional log in
instructions will then be sent to your email Inbox.
Q. Is the MMTA Member Directory still available?
A. Yes. Log in, then look for “Member Directory” under
“Member Resources”.
Q. Where do I find the MMTA Handbook?
A. Log in, then look under “Member Resources”.
Handbook pages are split between the three
“Teacher Resouces…” pages.
Q. Why don’t I see my information on the Find a
Teacher page?
A. Members must request to be listed there. To make
this request - or if you have requested to be listed in
the past but don’t see your information - please
contact the MMTA Office.
Q. How do I register online?
A. Log in, the click “Register Online” at the top of the
page. Select the event you’d like to register for
(Exams, Piano Contest, etc.), then follow the
steps provided.
Other questions? Contact the MMTA Office.
15

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
Got
awards?
Motivate
students
with the
MMTA
Challenge
Award!
For more
Information, see the
‘11-’12 Handbook
pp. 16-17;
or go to the MMTA
website (under
“Student Programs”.)
All points earned after
September 2010
may be applied.
16
Challenge Awards
Marilyn Henry, Program Co-Director
If you enter any student in any program through
MMTA, you are already a participant in the
Challenge Award program. It is that simple. The
only missing step would be claiming the awards
for your students. How easy is that? You do not
have to register the student in any special way, or
jump through any hoops, other than to notify the
office of the awards your students have earned,
pay a small postage fee, and wait for the awards
to arrive at your door.
Did your students participate last year, but you
missed claiming the awards? Not to worry; the
points never expire. Points began accruing with
activities beginning in November of 2010. There
is no deadline for you to claim the awards. Just
keep track what each student earns throughout
their years with you so they can continue to
work toward the trophy.
Certification for all
participants!! Alexander
Braginsky and Paul
Shaw, University of MN -
Minneapolis faculty, will
judge the final round.
Finalists will receive jury
comments & diplomas.
Also, 9 winners will
receive trophies and
Schmitt Music gift cards
with winner's recital.

Announcing the 2011 MTNA State Competition Winners!
Jill Kilzer, NCTM, MMTA President-Elect
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
The MTNA State Performance Competitions were held on Saturday, Oct 29, 2011 in Christiansen Hall of Music and
Skifter Hall at St. Olaf College, Northfield. Our appreciation to Dr. Kent McWilliams and the St. Olaf Music Department
for their hospitality in hosting the event and to Patsy Bode, Past President of MMTA, for coordinating all the details of
the competition.
Congratulations to :
Junior Piano
Winner Advancing to Divisional: Derek Hartman, teacher – Paul Wirth
Alternate: Robert Peng, teacher – Alexander Braginsky
Bo Peng just turned 14 years old this October. He attends 9th grade this fall at Hopkins West
Junior High. Bo started taking piano lessons at age 6 and became at 9 a student of Professor
Alexander Braginsky at the University of Minnesota.
Bo won many piano competitions, which include the prestigious 1st prize of 2010 Young
People's Symphony Concert Association (YPSCA) School Music Auditions, sponsored by the
Minnesota Orchestra. As a part of winning prize Bo had performed six concerts as soloist with
Minnesota Orchestra in January 2011. Bo also won the 2nd prize in junior division of Schubert
Club competition in 2011.
Bo enjoys math and computer programming. When he is not practicing piano, he plays karate
or tennis. He lives with his parents and grandparents in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
Honorable Mention: Michael Tang, teacher, JoAnne Link
Michael Tang is 12 years old and in the seventh grade at Valley View Middle School in Edina
Minnesota. Michael is a member of the Young Artists Class at the Crocus Hill Studios for the
Gifted and Talented where he studies with Dr. Jo Anne Link. Michael has participated in
numerous performances, auditions and competitions. He was three times a finalist in the junior
concerto competition of the Young Artist World Piano Festival from 2009 to 2011. He was
also selected to perform in the Young Artist World Piano Festival Junior Honors Recitals from
2009 to 2011. He was a finalist in the 2009 and 2011 Saint Paul Piano Teacher's Association
(SPPTA) Concerto Competition and received Honorable Mention in the 2010 Minneapolis Music
Teachers Forum (MMTF) Mozart Concerto Competition. Michael plays a leading role at Crocus
Hill Studios and enjoys listening to and supporting his fellow musicians.
Honorable Mention: Noah Chojnacki, teacher—Joseph Zins
Noah Chojnacki is 14 years old and a freshman at Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN.
He began studying piano at the age of 8. He developed an affinity for the romantic period in his
earlier years. In 2008, he joined the studio of Dr. Joseph Zins where he currently studies. In
recent years, Noah has also developed a love of some of the great modern composers. A natural
performer, he is noted for his expressive style. He lives with his parents and three siblings in
Eagan, Minnesota.
17

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
Senior Piano
Winner: Jeff Zhang, teacher – Alexander Braginsky
Alternate Advancing to Divisional: Lucas Jones, teacher – Joseph Zins
Honorable Mention: Robert Levinger, teacher – Paul Wirth
18
Jeff Zhang is 16 years old and is currently a senior at Wayzata High School. He started piano
when he was six years old, and is currently studying with Professor Alexander Braginsky .
Jeff has won numerous awards for his piano performances. In 2010, he won national 1 st place in
the MTNA Junior Piano Competition National Finals, 1 st prize winner 2011 Schubert Club Senior
Piano competition, 1 st place winner MMTA Young Artist Contest in 2009, and 2 nd place in the
Young People’s Symphony Concert Association concerto competition in 2007 and 2009.
Outside performance, Jeff is dedicated to bringing music to all reaches of the community. At
school, Jeff founded the Classical Music Listening Club in order to bring the appreciation of
classical music to Wayzata students. Also, Jeff volunteers at several senior living homes as a
piano performer to bring the music to the seniors and share music with the community.
Lucas Jones is currently a sophomore at Minnehaha Academy. He is 16 years old and comes
from a very mixed racial back round: African American, German, Welsh, Thai, Chinese,
Portuguese, and Indian. Some of his favorite classes are World History, Biology, and Chinese.
Lucas started piano when he was 6 years old with Dr. Joe Zins - who has been his teacher for
almost 10 years now. Lucas’ favorite composers consist of Chopin, Liszt, Beethoven, and
Prokofiev. The biggest challenge for hum as a pianist was getting over that “2 hour practice
time” hump in middle school; but has no trouble with practicing now. Lucas looks to a bright
future in the world of piano with possibilities that are endless.
Lucas enjoys watching movies, playing baseball, listening to music and reading history books,
going to Twins games, practicing, playing sports, and spending time with relatives.
Bobby Levinger, 15, a student of Dr. Paul Wirth, is a sophomore at Central High School in La
Crosse, Wisconsin. His greatest accomplishment to date occurred in 2009 when he won the
St. Paul Piano Teachers' Association Concerto Competition and received the privilege of
performing with the Mississippi Valley Orchestra.
In 2011, Bobby began the year by earning Honorable Mention at the La Crosse Rising Stars
Concerto Competition. He also won 2 nd place at the Thursday Musical Young Artist
Competition in St. Paul, and 4 th place in MMTA’s Young Artist Competition. Later in 2011, he
received honorable mention at the MTNA State Division. He is also a past finalist in The
Schubert Club Scholarship Competition, and a two-time Exemplary Award winner at the
Wisconsin Scholastic Music Association State Festival.
Bobby, along with his father, founded their “Harmony for Haiti” charity in 2010. Bobby
traveled to area churches, performing for Haitian relief. The charity produced over $2,500.

Honorable Mention: Austin Frohmader, teacher – Joseph Zins
Young Artist Piano
Winner Advancing to Divisional: Jeremy Krahn, teacher – Kent McWilliams
Alternate: Casey Rafn, teacher – Ksenia Nosikova
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
Austin Frohmader, age 17, is from Coon Rapids, MN. He studies with Dr. Joseph Zins of
Crocus Hill Studios. Austin is the first place winner of the Young People’s Symphony Concert
Association (YPSCA) Minnesota Orchestra Concerto Competition, the Thursday Musical Young
Artist Competition – High School Division, and the Saint Paul Piano Teachers (SPPTA) Concerto
Competition. He is also the second place winner of the LaCrosse Symphony Orchestra’s “Rising
Stars” Concerto Competition and Minnetonka Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Competition.
This year Austin was selected for the Schubert Club Composer Mentorship Program and is
now a student apprentice of Edie Hill, composer-in-residence at the Schubert Club.
A native of Rivers, Manitoba, Canada, Jeremy Krahn is a senior at St. Olaf College in Northfield,
Minnesota. He is currently studying with Dr. Kent McWilliams. An active performer, he maintains a
busy solo and collaborative schedule with instrumentalists and vocalists. His most recent awards
include second place in the Schubert Club Scholarship Competition (St. Paul) and first place in the
Snjolaug Sigurdson Piano Competition (Winnipeg). Jeremy has participated in master classes with
such renowned pedagogues as Robert McDonald and Marc Durand, as well as spending a summer at
the Orford Arts Center in Quebec. In addition to piano, he also studies voice with Karen Wilkerson
and sings in the St. Olaf Choir.
Casey Rafn was born in Two Harbors, MN, and currently attends the University of Iowa, studying
under the tutelage of Professor Ksenia Nosikova. Winner of the 2011 Liszt-Garrison International
Piano Competition, Young Artist category, he maintains a busy performance schedule, collaborating
for both instrumental and vocal recitals; Mr. Rafn has performed across the upper Midwest as well
as in Eastern Europe. Recent and upcoming performances include recitals with Stephen Swanson,
Baritone, professor at the University of Iowa; a voice recital with Hannover (Germany) School for
Music and Theatre voice professor Marina Sandel; and a chamber music recital for cello and piano
with Minnesota Orchestra principal cellist, Anthony Ross. Other prizes include Duluth Superior
Symphony Young Artist competition, and MTNA Iowa Young Artist.
Senior Voice
Representative Advancing to Divisional: Cydney Chamberlain, soprano; teacher—Siri Caltvedt
Cydney Chamberlain is in the 9th grade at Wayzata High School in Plymouth, MN. Cydney has
been studying classical voice for 5 years at Virtuosos Music Academy with Siri Caltveldt. For the last
four years Cydeny has been active in vocal competitions, recitals, plays and various
performances at both Virtuosos and school functions. Cydney is a four year member of the
Minnesota Opera Project Opera program which focuses on Bel Canto vocal study. Performances
with the Minnesota Opera include Opera Lobby shows, Concerts, Student Operas as well as being a
cast member of the Ordway's production of La Boheme in 2010. Cydney is the 2011 MMTA Level 2
voice competition winner.
19

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
20

January/February, 2012 [MMTA NEWSLETTER]
Senior Woodwinds
Representative Advancing to Divisional: Hannah Sorensen, flute; teacher—Debora Harris
Young Artist Woodwind
Winner Advancing to Divisional: Jeffery Hutchins, saxophone; teacher – Eugene Rousseau
Alternate: Gregory Wrenn, saxophone; teacher – Eugene Rousseau
Junior String
Representative Advancing to Divisional: Jason Shu, violin; teacher-- Sally O’Reilly
21
Hannah Sorensen is a senior at Oak Grove Lutheran High School in Fargo, North Dakota, and studies
flute with Deb Harris, Associate Professor of Flute at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minnesota.
Hannah is currently Principal Flute of the Fargo-Moorhead Area Youth Symphony. In 2010 she was the
winner of the FMAYS Concerto Competition and performed as a soloist with the symphony. She
placed 2nd in the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Young Artist Competition, and was also a finalist. Last
year she was the state and division winner of the Minnesota Senior High School Woodwind
competition and performed at the MTNA national competition in Milwaukee, WI.
Hannah lives in Fargo with her parents and five siblings. She also enjoys cross country running,
swimming, skiing, art, and spending summers at the lake with her family.
Jeffery Kyle Hutchins, a Texas native, is an active performer as both a soloist and chamber musician,
having performed at many venues across the United States including the Navy Band International
Saxophone Symposium and North American Saxophone Alliance Conferences.
As an advocate of new and experimental music, Mr. Hutchins is co-founder of AVIDduo with flutist
Brittany Primavera. They have commissioned five new works for the flute and saxophone medium and
will present recitals in the United States, Europe, and South America. Mr. Hutchins is also a member of
the Minneapolis-based contemporary music ensemble RenegadeEnsemble, a group committed to performing
the music of living composers. As an educator, Mr. Hutchins is currently maintaining an active
saxophone and clarinet studio in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
A recipient of the prestigious Berneking Fellowship, Mr. Hutchins is currently attending the University
of Minnesota where he is pursuing a Master's degree in Saxophone Performance.
Gregory O. Wrenn, saxophonist from Yorktown, Virginia, received a B.A. in music education and
performance, and M.A.Ed in curriculum and instruction from Virginia Tech where he studied with
Dr. David Jacobsen. He has performed with the Virginia Tech Symphonic Wind Ensemble; New
River Valley Symphony Orchestra; Univ. of MN Wind Ensemble, and Encore Wind Ensemble; as well
as saxophone quartets at Virginia Tech and the Univ. of MN. He won the 2006 Virginia Tech
Student Soloist Competition performing the Concerto for Saxophone by Alexandre Glazounov.
In 2009, Mr. Wrenn performed at the Eugene Rousseau International Saxophone Master Class in
Minneapolis, Minnesota. He also won the 2009 Virginia state level of the MTNA Young Artist
Woodwind Performance Competition and advanced to the regional competition in Birmingham,
Alabama. Mr. Wrenn is currently pursuing the M.M. in saxophone performance at the University of
Minnesota where he studies with world-renowned saxophone educator Eugene Rousseau.
Jason Shu currently studies violin with Sally O’Reilly, a well-known professor at the University of
Minnesota. He has played with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra in Ted Mann Hall at the age of 8, and
also won a number of competitions, including the Allegro! Orchestra Camp Concerto Competition,
and the MNSOTA Mary West Solo Competition’s Givens Prize and Coda Bow Prize along with being
the MTNA Midwest Division Runner-up two years ago. Jason attends ninth grade in The Blake School.

[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
Senior String
Representative Advancing to Divisional: Melissa Deal, violin; teacher—Sally O’Reilly
Melissa Deal, 16, is a violin student of Sally O’Reilly and a junior at Eagle Ridge Academy. She has
been playing violin since her sister began teaching her at age three. She has won numerous awards,
including the Haydn Prize and Bronze Medal in the St. Paul String Quartet Competition, Showcase
Winner of MPR’s Varsity Competition and performed with her string quartet on NPR’s From the Top.
Melissa has participated in masterclasses given by Yair Kless, Sarah Kwak and members of the
Takacs and Parker Quartets. When not playing music, Melissa loves to run and bake with
her friends.
Elementary Composition
Representative Advancing to Divisional: Daniel Chang, teacher—Dorothy Sandquist
Daniel Chang is in the 4 th grade at Folwell Elementary in Rochester. He started piano in kindergarten. In 1 st grade,
his composition placed 1 st in the MMTA contest; and, in 2 nd grade, his piece received honorable mention. This year
his work has again placed first.
The title of Daniel’s piece is Capriccio. It is in D minor with an A theme that introduces Hungarian style. The B
theme plays with Questions and Answers. The C theme is in D major and the melody is shifted between hands.
There is then a transition back to the A theme in D minor, finishing with some scales and chordal skills. Daniel
enjoyed creating the melodies for this piece. He found it was a lot of work and now wishes to share them!
For sports, Daniel plays soccer and baseball. His favorite subject in school is math.
Junior Composition
Representative Advancing to Divisional: Derek Hartman, teacher—Sarah Miller.
Derek’s piece is “Piano Trio for Oboe, French Horn and Piano”.
Senior Composition
Representative Advancing to Divisional: Austin Frohmader, teacher—Joseph Zins
Austin Frohmader, age 17, is from Coon Rapids, MN. He studies with Dr. Joseph Zins of
Crocus Hill Studios. Austin is the first place winner of the Young People’s Symphony Concert
Association (YPSCA) Minnesota Orchestra Concerto Competition, the Thursday Musical Young
Artist Competition – High School Division, and the Saint Paul Piano Teachers (SPPTA) Concerto
Competition. He is also the second place winner of the LaCrosse Symphony Orchestra’s “Rising
Stars” Concerto Competition and Minnetonka Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Competition.
This year Austin was selected for the Schubert Club Composer Mentorship Program and is
now a student apprentice of Edie Hill, composer-in-residence at the Schubert Club.
Austin’s composition is “Brass Quintet in E-flat Major”.
Performance Winners (or their alternates) will advance to the Divisional Compeition Level, January 13-15, 2012 at the
University of Colorado at Boulder. Winners of MTNA Divisional Competitions will advance to the National Competition
held March 24-27, 2012 at the MTNA National Conference, New York, NY.
Composition Winners for Divisional have already been announced! Congratulations Elementary Divisional Winner,
Daniel Chang, student of Dorothy Sandquist, and Junior Divisional Winner, Derek Hartman, student of Sarah Miller.
Their compositions will go on to the National Competition.
Best of Luck to all our Winners and Representatives in Boulder and New York City! MMTA is proud of you and
your teachers!
22

MUSIC LOVERS’ STUDY TOUR TO
CENTRAL EUROPE
AUSTRIA, CZECH REPUBLIC
& GERMANY
July 31 – August 13, 2012 (14 days)
Optional extra day/night in Berlin,
August 13-14
Situated in central Germany just north of the Thuringian Forest, Weimar is
a city with a vast cultural heritage. It was the center of the literary genre
“Weimar Classicism” whose leading contributors were Goethe, Schiller
and Herter. In the early twentieth century it became the center for the
“Bauhaus Movement” in art, fed by such artists as Kandinsky and Klee. It
was also the city in which the “Weimar Republic” took shape after WW I.
As music lovers, our interest in this city focuses on musicians such as J. S.
Bach, Johann Hummel, Franz Liszt and Richard Strauss who enjoyed
sustained periods of residence here. The “Weimar Period” of Bach’s life
was a productive nine year span as Organist and Kapellmeister in the
service of Duke Johann Ernst. Here he composed many works for
keyboard and orchestra, such as the earliest Preludes and Fugues that
would later be included in the “Well Tempered Klavier”.
After fostering the “Lisztomania” that swept Europe in response to his
concertizing, Franz Liszt settled down in Weimar, giving up widespread
concertizing for composing. Appointed as Kapellmeister, he conducted
concerts, gave piano lessons to the likes of Hans von Bulow, and had
ample time for composing. It was here that he composed some of his
great orchestral works and gave birth to the form that we know as the
“Tone Poem”. Even after he left for Rome and the priesthood, he
regularly returned to Weimar for piano seminars. We hope to visit the
Liszt Museum in Weimar.
We invite you to join us here in “Bach and Liszt Country” as we explore
these and other exciting sites. A complete itinerary is available at
www.gtd.org (Tour #120702). For more information on the trip or
upcoming pre-trip meetings, you may call Pat (952-944-2828), Carolyn
(651-784-4372) or Janet at Accolades (952-881-7811).
(Written by Carolyn Nordquist)
Answer key for
Music Bridges
Sudoku on
pg. 13
E R G D ! S B I
D I B E G ! R S
!
S B I R E G D
I E S R ! B D G
R B ! G D E S I
G D S B I R ! E
S D R ! G I E B
G ! E I S B D R
B I R E D G S
!
[MMTA NEWSLETTER] January/February, 2012
THE MMTA NEWSLETTER
Official Publication of the
Minnesota Music Teachers Association
affiliated with the
Music Teachers National Association.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Minnesota Music Teachers
Association is to advance the profession of music
teaching through education, certification, networking
and advocacy.
MMTA Purpose
The purpose of the Minnesota Music Teachers
Association is to enhance the professional status of its
members, to sponsor and participate in programs for
the enrichment of music education, and to encourage
music performance and creativity. All members are
committed to the highest standards of music teaching
and are dedicated to upholding and improving the
standards of all music education in Minnesota.
Statement of Function
The function of the MMTA Newsletter is to reflect the
Purpose of MMTA, to serve as a vehicle of
communication to the membership, to inform the
membership of events and ideas; to report musical
activity in the state and to stimulate and encourage
active interest, participation and support for the MMTA
as it maintains a role of leadership in the State of
Minnesota.
MMTA NEWSLETTER POLICY
Promotions of recitals, workshops or other events of
interest to music teachers which have a charge or fee
must be inserts as advertisements. Exceptions are
MTNA and MMTA-sponsored events, and the fall
education classes on contest materials (i.e., SPPTA,
MMTF, St. Cloud, New Ulm, etc.).
ISSUES AND DEADLINES
September: August 1st
October: September 1st
November/December: October 1st
January/February: December 1st
March: February 1st
April: March 1st
May/June: April 1st
Submit articles to:
MMTA, 10800 Lyndale Ave S, Ste. 263
Bloomington, MN 55420
mmta@mnmusicteachers.com
PAID ADVERTISEMENTS
The statements of the advertisers
are not necessarily those of MMTA.
Submit inquires and ads to:
MMTA, 10800 Lyndale Ave S, Ste. 263
Bloomington, MN 55420
mmta@mnmusicteachers.com
ADVERTISEMENT RATES
Full Page 7 1/2w x 10 h $175
Half page 7 1/2 w x 4 3/4 h $115
One-fourth page 3 1/2 w x 4 3/4 h $80
One-eighth page 2 1/4 h x 3 1/2 w $45
WANT AD RATE SCHEDULE
6 Lines $20 3 Lines $10
(MMTA members pay half price on Want Ad rate.)
23

2012 MMTA Convention
June 4 & 5, 2012
Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West, Plymouth
Featuring Guest Clinician:
Peter Mack
Irish pianist Peter Mack is celebrated for his moving
performances and easy rapport with audiences.
A choral scholar at Trinity College Dublin and a fellow of
Trinity College London, he received a doctorate in piano
performance from the University of Washington. He has
performed throughout the United States and Europe, as
well as in Australia and the former Soviet Union. Known for his extensive repertoire, he has played
twenty-five concertos with orchestras. He is the winner of the New Orleans, Young Keyboard
Artists, and Pacific International Piano Competitions, and received a Steinway grand piano as
first-place winner of the Sherman-Clay Competition. Dr. Mack is in demand as a performer,
clinician, convention artist, adjudicator, and teacher. His students are frequent winners of local,
national, and international competitions. In 2011 he joined the select group of teachers who have
had more than one national winner of the Music Teachers National Association piano performance
competitions in the same year, when students of his won both the junior solo and senior duet
national finals. Dr. Mack is Professor of Piano Performance at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle,
and serves on the board of M.T.N.A. In the 2011-12 season, he will be the convention artist for the
Idaho, Minnesota, and New Mexico state conventions, and has upcoming engagements as judge,
performer, and clinician in Canada and India. Dr. Mack is a Steinway artist.
"Mack is one of those lucky ones, born with a completely balanced set of talents. He has
perfect piano hands, his technique is all but infallible, he has boundless temperament, style and
taste, and above all, he communicates directly.... In all capacities he is indefatigable...."
--Los Angeles Times