Our first DVMTA general meeting of the new year was a great success. Members and friends met on January 27, 2023 at My First Piano. We were privileged to have Dr. Hannah Creviston be our presenter. Dr. Creviston is a Clinical Associate Professor of Piano Pedagogy, Director of the Music Prep Program, and Coordinator of Class Piano at ASU. She instructed us on Teaching Rhythm, not Math: the Use of Music Learning Theory Principles in the Private Studio. Dr. Creviston shared many tools to help students learn rhythm through listening and movement. Members were able to participate in learning how movement allows students to learn principles of rhythm and the demonstrations were a lot of fun. Thank you to Dr. Hannah Creviston for an inspiring meeting. 

DVMTA members met Friday, November 18, 2022 at My First Piano for the November General Meeting. Our guest presenter was Dr. Michael Bryson, Chairman of of the music department at International Baptist College and Seminary in Chandler, AZ. Dr. Bryson was delightful as he shared practical tools on composing music, and teaching composition to our students. Composing and arranging are creative ways to deepen a connection to music, and allow students the opportunity for self-expression. We are very grateful to Dr. Bryson for sharing his wisdom, and for sharing simple techniques to teach and motivate students as they develop their composition skills.

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. 

How does a teacher set goals for their students? How can we help them achieve "small" goals, as well as long-term success? These were the questions addressed at DVMTA's September General Meeting on September 30, 2022. "Glorious Goals" was presented by DVMTA members Carolyn Rooder, Claire Westlake, and Carolyn Eldredge. These wonderful teachers provided insight into how our DVMTA student events can help to achieve the small and simple goals, as well as the larger and more meaningful aspirations students have. We love to get together and discuss student success, and we are thankful for all of the advice and experience that was shared by everyone.