Here’s the newsletter for September:
Our first General Membership Meeting of the season took place Sept. 15th at Yocum Institute. We thank Yocum for their hospitality in allowing us the use of their facilities. We hope to be able to meet there in the future as well. It was great to see old friends again and share teaching insights with each other. And on that note, we welcome some new “Friends” supporters of RMTA, (or old friends to some of us… ) retired vocal teachers Rosemary Fraley and Annie Sallade.
RMTA SURVEY
Only 6 members have responded so far, so not really representative of the whole. I would appreciate if a few more of you would take 2 minutes and do the survey. I’ll publish the results in the next newsletter. Here’s the link – orms.gle/1EevUnuxhwbx8MSZ8
SEEKING PIANO PARTNERS!
We have a unique opportunity to take advantage of two outstanding instruments in the sanctuary of Immanuel UCC. To that end, we are proposing an ensemble recital – piano duos, trios, quartets (or even 1p/4h played on 2 pianos) – performed by students and teachers of all ages, levels and abilities. And not just piano – we encourage ensembles of all types including instrumental and vocal. Memory not required, of course. And all music genres are acceptable. Your partners do not have to be an RMTA members either. More details will be provided later (like rehearsal space). Please let me know who is interested in working towards this performance, which will occur in spring 2024. We hope to make this an annual experience.
ADULT MUSIC SALON
Our adult musical experience will take place on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 3pm at Deborah Pyle’s home.
DS PERFORMANCE FESTIVAL
Even if you don’t have students participating, you’re welcome to attend the Showcase Recital on Sunday. Check the RMTA website Saturday evening October 14 to confirm the start time. The event is open to the public. Future DSPF announcements will only go to participating teachers.
STUDENT FESTIVALS
Regarding our student festivals, if you’re not participating because of the statement that ‘teachers must assist at some point during the event’, don’t fret – you can still enter your students and not be physically present. There are always enough teachers around to handle the chores. Of our two student festivals, the March SpringFest is much more relaxed all around with regard to attendance, repertoire and memory requirements. If you have a student who wants to perform but not memorize, encourage them to try this event!
RANDOM NOTES
• Member Harriet Rauenzahn has retired from teaching and has some books she would like to give away. If you’d like to peruse her library, give her a call or email. Her contact info is on the attached membership list.
• Fall Festival of the Arts returns to Reading with events some unique concerts in the next few months including Orgelkids, a workshop where kids get to build a pipe organ! Visit the website for more information – https://fallfestivalofthearts.org
• Here’s an interesting article: Welcome address to freshman parents Boston Conservatory, given by Karl Paulnack, pianist and director of music division – CLICK HERE.
• if you haven’t paid your MTNA dues, now is the time to ensure you receive all the latest news from your professional organizations. As of October 1st, the membership list will reflect the current paid members and Friends. CLICK HERE to renew.
• If you’re included on the RMTA “Find a Teacher” webpage, please review your listing for accuracy. If you’d like to be added, check out the other listings for what information to include and forward that to website manager Rod Nevin.
Stay inspired!
Millie
