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. 

We look forward each year to having our DVMTA Awards in Excellence, which allows students to perform and be judged, and to receive cash and trophy awards for their excellence. Auditions were held on April 9, 2022 at Hammer and Strings Conservatory, where 65 students from 10 different DVMTA teachers performed for our outstanding judges. They received scores, along with thoughtful praise and suggestions for improvement. Those selected as winners in each level were invited to perform at one of two Winners Recitals, which was held on April 23, 2022 at the same location. Performances were beyond amazing, and prizes were awarded to the winners and those who received honorable mention status. Many thanks to all teachers who prepared their students so wonderfully, to our judges, and to Lorri McHardy, and the Awards in Excellence committee.