DVMTA's annual Composition Festival was held Saturday, Nov. 19th and Sunday, Nov. 20th at Southeast Valley Bible Church. Two recitals were held Saturday, and one recital was held Sunday. Young composers performed the pieces they had previously composed, notated, recorded, and submitted for evaluation. We were amazed at the talent and creativity, and were so pleased with the progress each student made. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to explore their creativity, and to develop music writing skills. Many thanks to the teachers and parents who supported and helped these students, and to Penni Scott for her constructive and encouraging evaluations. Thanks also to the Original Composition Festival committee: Buffie Meeker, Jessica Heidt and Debbie Engelsman. 

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. 

The last event of the year for DVMTA students is Awards Plus. This is a special night to recognize students for all their dedication to participating in DVMTA events. Nine students were recognized with Devoted Performer Awards, which signifies their participation in four out of five annual DVMTA events for three out of five years. This is a tremendous accomplishment, and these students, as well as their teachers and families, are well-deserving of this honor. In addition, two graduating seniors were awarded Senior Scholarships, which they earned by participating for many years in DVMTA events, and for school and community music involvement. These amazing young ladies each showcased their talents and performed for us, and we wish them all the best in continuing their musical journeys. Thank you to Wendi Heslop, the Awards Plus chairperson, for making this evening so special, and to the DVMTA teachers and families who have helped teach and support these dedicated students. 

After two years of holding Achievement Day online due to COVID-19 teachers and students were thrilled to be able to hold this event live and in person at Mesa Community College's Music Building. We saw many smiles as students arrived and completed their testing. This annual event allows students the opportunity to perform and show all that they have learned and accomplished this past year. Students were evaluated in the areas of performance, theory, technique, ear training, sight reading, composers, compositions and duets. Despite all the challenges of the past two years, students were amazing, and displayed their determination and resilience. We are so happy for all they have overcome. Many thanks to the Achievement Day chairperson, Toni Tetreau for all her work to make this event successful the past two years, to her committee, and to all the DVMTA members who helped prepare and evaluate students.