Young DVMTA composers brought their musical ideas to life through the annual Composition Festival. Each participating student composed and notated their piece, then submitted a recording of themselves playing the piece. Each piece was then evaluated by Penni Scott, who has been a wonderful friend to DVMTA for many years, and has contributed so much to our developing DVMTA composers. Students were then able to participate in one of two Festival recitals, either virtually, or in person at Southeast Valley Bible Church, and each recital participant received a medal. Congratulations to these dedicated musicians, and many thanks to their devoted teachers, and to the Original Composition Committee: Claire Westlake, Debbie Engelsman, and Jessica Heidt. 

DVMTA students were amazing as they performed at Music Marathon. Some participated virtually by sending videos of themselves playing their selected pieces, while others participated in person by performing in front of a small and distanced audience at one of our two venues. The locations included Superstition Springs Mall and Southeast Valley Bible Church, and we were thrilled to have so many participate, 230 in all! These wonderful students shared their music enthusiastically, and with great energy, and demonstrated that despite the challenges we have, there are still opportunities to connect, and to make memories together. Many thanks to our Music Marathon Committee: Charles Newton, Lori Kaye Faler and Diana Palmer.

DVMTA students and teachers gathered at Mesquite High School Saturday morning for one last rehearsal to get ready for our Cavalcade of Rhythm Duet Ensemble Performance. One last opportunity to get everyone in their places and to put the finishing touches on the pieces that will be showcased. The rain could not dampen the spirits of all these eager students who were anxiously anticipating performing for their families and friends.