Who We Are

Virginia’s Community for Independent and Collegiate Music Teachers

The Virginia Music Teachers Association is a statewide community of educators who believe music teaching should never be isolated work.

Our members teach in independent studios, colleges, universities, conservatories, private schools, and community programs. We represent different instruments, teaching traditions, career stages, and regions of Virginia, but we share one purpose: helping teachers grow so their students can thrive.

VMTA connects educators through professional development opportunities, including certification and our annual conference; student programs; leadership opportunities; and a statewide network of colleagues who understand both the rewards and realities of teaching music.

What We Do

We Bring Teachers Together

Our annual State Conference gathers music educators for presentations, master classes, performances, conversations, and practical teaching ideas they can carry back to their studios and classrooms.

It is a place to learn from respected clinicians, hear Virginia musicians perform, enjoy a full weekend of concerts, meet colleagues from across the Commonwealth, and reconnect with the creative work at the heart of our profession.

VMTA also supports local associations throughout Virginia, giving teachers opportunities to build meaningful professional relationships closer to home.

We Create Opportunities for Students

Students of VMTA members can participate in programs designed to develop both skill and confidence.

The VMTA Fall Festival gives students an encouraging performance experience while introducing them to a broad range of musical styles and repertoire.

Skills Tests and Sight-Reading Festivals help students strengthen the practical musicianship that supports everything they play. Theory Tests encourage a deeper understanding of how music is built, moving students beyond simply playing the correct notes.

Through District Auditions, advanced students can earn recognition for their preparation and performance. The VMTA Concerto Competition gives accomplished young musicians the opportunity to perform major repertoire, compete at the state level, and perform with a professional orchestra.

Through our parent organization, MTNA, students also have opportunities to compete at the local, state, division, and national levels for substantial awards.

These programs are not simply dates on a calendar. They give teachers meaningful goals around which to organize learning, and they give students reasons to prepare, persevere, and share their music.

We Invest in Better Teaching

VMTA provides opportunities for teachers to examine new ideas, strengthen their pedagogy, pursue professional certification, and learn from colleagues working in a wide range of educational settings.

Conference programming includes sessions on teaching, creativity, professional practice, certification, leadership, and the changing needs of today’s students and studios.

We believe strong music communities begin with supported teachers. When educators have access to ideas, resources, and trusted colleagues, they are better equipped to serve their students.

We Develop Leaders

VMTA is powered by teachers who are willing to contribute their experience.

Members serve as local and state officers, committee chairs, event coordinators, adjudicators, presenters, mentors, and volunteers. These opportunities allow educators to shape the future of music teaching in Virginia while developing leadership skills of their own.

There is room here for seasoned professionals and emerging teachers alike.

Part of a National Community

Founded in 1964, VMTA is the Virginia affiliate of Music Teachers National Association.

MTNA has supported music educators across the United States since 1874 and provides national resources in professional development, certification, competitions, leadership, and advocacy. Through membership in VMTA and MTNA, Virginia teachers become part of both a statewide community and a national professional network.