MTNA 2024 Conference Highlights
The glowing accounts of my colleagues' experiences at the past MTNA Conference convinced me to join the MTNA/MMTA and sign up to attend my first 2020 MTNA Conference in Chicago. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020, 2021, and 2022 MTNA Conferences were held virtually, and I saw what they offered. However, in 2023, I finally had a chance to experience the unique energy and personal connections of an in-person MTNA Conference in Reno, Nevada, which was a stark contrast to the virtual format.
The 2024 MTNA Conference in Atlanta was my second time attending. I was fortunate to attend all five days of the conference. The conference offered sessions with various topics - Technology, Group Teaching, Technique, Jazz & Improvisation, Pedagogy, Literature, Business, etc. The conference also offered Opening session, Keynote session, Masterclasses, Poster sessions, Competitions, Exhibitor Showcases, Winners Concert, and Evening Recitals.
After Party: Ranko, Lydia, Dorothy, Jonathan, Valerie, Esther, Debi & Alison
One of my favorite sessions was Pedagogy Saturday. I focused on the Artistry track chaired by Nancy O’Neill Breth. The first session started at 8 am, and our MMTA colleague, Isabella Li, presented on how to teach artistic performance to a very young beginner. We watched the video of Isabella teaching while she explained in detail. It was insightful for me as I think about how to teach my young students. The next session, which Theresa Bogart presented, showed how she fixes a college student with technical problems while reaching his/her artistic potential. It was helpful to hear and see her train her students so I can apply this knowledge to my work. Other highlights included presentations by Silvan Negrutiu, Yi Chang, Scott McBride Smith, and Roberto Poli. Seeing Isabella Li and Roberto Poli (who are from the Boston area) was special.
One of the most cherished aspects of the conference was the sense of community and camaraderie. I attended the Eastern Division dinner and the MMTA Cocktail Hour, where I saw friends and colleagues and met new people along the way. In addition, MMTA celebrated our colleague, Alison Barr, for receiving the MTNA 2024 Teacher of the Year award, which was a testament to the supportive and encouraging group of people we have in our organization.
Attending the MTNA Conference was not just about gaining professional knowledge and accessing more resources but also about the inspiration and enthusiasm that filled the air. The brilliant performances and enthusiastic lectures left me feeling refreshed and excited to teach again. I am eager to apply the new knowledge I gained from the conference to my teachings.
I am grateful to receive the travel grant from the MMTA Reed Family Teacher Enrichment Fund to attend the 2024 MTNA Conference in Atlanta. Thank you, and I hope every teacher will have a chance to attend!
Submitted by Ranko Konishi-Houston