“The heart that gives thanks is a happy one, for we cannot feel thankful and unhappy at the same time.” – Douglas Wood

The holidays are just around the corner, and with them comes the excitement and anticipation of delicious feasts, gathering with family and friends, favorite traditions, holiday music, concerts, and giving thoughtful gifts. Our hearts are full of more gratitude, cheer, and kindness. Musicians are especially busy this time of year spreading peace and joy through the power of music. My students love holiday music, and it’s been a fun and busy couple of weeks helping them choose the perfect piece to learn and share with family and friends. It’s important that our students understand the impact they can have on others through their music.

May we enter this busy holiday season with an attitude of gratitude. We have much to be grateful for as members of DVMTA. I’m especially grateful to associate with each of you, and for the friendships I’ve made. I’m grateful for our Board who work diligently to ensure our events are successful and run smoothly. I’m grateful for the opportunities DVMTA gives me and my students to learn and to grow.

I wish you and your families a very happy holiday season!

Tammy Shorts
DVMTA President 2022-2024

Read the full November 2022 Newsletter

The October General Meeting is the music preview for the Cavalcade of Rhythm Duets that will be performed in February. We always have a great time at this meeting, and enjoy reading through these fun duet pieces together. This year's theme is "Pirate Partners," and we cannot wait to have students learn and perform. The read through was held Friday, October 29th at The Music Store. We are grateful for their hospitality, and for the Cavalcade Committee, who have worked hard all summer to prepare. 

The first student event of the new year, Music Marathon, was a huge success! Hundreds of students from  the valley performed at various locations during this all day piano recital. This year's venues included Superstition Springs Mall, Southeast Valley Bible Church, and Copper Springs Retirement Community. A virtual option was included. Some students dressed in Halloween costumes, while others took a casual or classy approach. All performed so well, and made their families and teachers proud. We love this fun fall event, and we appreciate all the community support these students receive. Many thanks to the Music Marathon Committee, Sharon Vance, Nancy Chase, and Diana Palmer. 

Happy Fall Y’all!

Our DVMTA events begin this month with Music Marathon on Saturday, October 22. I know my students are diligently practicing their pieces to make sure they shine at the performance. I’m excited that DVMTA students have the opportunity to perform at some great venues and to share their music with members of our community.

Don’t forget to take pictures and email them to Claire Westlake to boost our social media presence. If you post pictures of your studio on Facebook or Instagram, consider adding #dvmta and #rivertonpiano to support our piano supplier. For those students who can’t attend in-person, the virtual option is a great alternative.

Our next General Meeting will be the Cavalcade Music Read Through on Oct. 28th, 9:30 AM at The Music Store in Mesa. Registration for Cavalcade begins that day and goes until Nov. 18th. It’s always fun and helpful to play through the music together. Students just love playing duets, so start thinking about which students to put in Cavalcade.

Hopefully, all of our budding composers are finishing up their original compositions. The registration deadline for The Original Composition Festival is Oct. 28th. They can be turned in early or at the Cavalcade Read Through. These recitals are always so impressive and inspiring.

These events help our students become lifelong musicians. They help teachers to inspire, challenge, and encourage They are only possible because of our talented and hard-working Committee Chairmen and their committees. This is going to be a great year full of great opportunities for students and teachers. See you on Oct. 28th!

Tammy Shorts
DVMTA President 2022-2024

Read the full October 2022 Newsletter