Music For
Everyone

Bringing the musical community together since 1891.

The Philadelphia Music Teachers Association

The Philadelphia Music Teachers Association (PhMTA) was organized as a local music teachers association in 1891. Theodore Presser, teacher and music publisher, founded the organization to promote the professional interests of teachers and improve the quality of teaching.

The Board reorganized the association’s program in 1960 and developed the format we follow today. We offer the Dr. Andor Kiszely Solo, Concerto and Ensemble Recitals which require an audition.

In 1989 the organization voted to join the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), which offers expanded opportunities for PhMTA’s members and their students to participate in regional and national fesitivals and competitions. The Dorothy Sutton Performance Festival is held as a preliminary performance in which students are evaluated by an adjudicator. If the student is evaluated as well prepared, they may go on to the State competitions.

Our History

Upcoming Events

Nov 5, 2025 (3:00PM)

Teacher Program: Kathryn Woodard: Reaching New Heights While Playing or Singing

Zoom workshop and In person at Steinway & Sons, Center City, Philadelphia

Apr 19, 2026 (5:00PM)

Spring Performance Festival

Our Spring Performance Festival will be held at the Wynnefield branch of Settlement Music School on April 19th, 2026 from 1:00PM to 4:00PM. This festival is the perfect training ground for students interested in preparing for a competitive festival such as the Dorothy Sutton Performance Festival.

Sep 3, 2026 (2:29PM)

Board Meetings

1st Thursday of September, December, February, and June.

Sep 17, 2026 (2:00PM)

Teachers Form: Jacob Collier, being a multi instrumentalist in the 21st Century

A discussion and review of being a successful multi instrumentalist in both performance and education. Many of the great composers like W. A. Mozart and J. S. Bach performed and taught to highly accomplished level on a variety of string and keyboard instruments. This forum is devoted to discussing the challenges and rewards of being an accomplished multi instrumental educator and performer in the 21st Century. Jacob Collier is an internationally recognized artist that bridges the gap between 17th and 18th century multi instrument traditions and brings his abilities to the contemporary modern concert stage.

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Gallery

Here are some of our highlights from previous events with members and teachers commemorating achievements and reaching milestones together.

Become A Member Today

The Philadelphia Music Teachers Association offers:

Programs given by distinguished musicians and educators addressing the various aspects of the teaching of music.
Performance opportunities including the annual Members Recital at Jacobs Music, and informal “Salon Musicales” held in members’ homes.
Recitals and Performance Festivals for our students, and the opportunity to participate in PMTA and MTNA events.
Opportunities to network with other music professionals in the community.
Further opportunities for growth through State and National conferences and the MTNA Certification program.

Learn How To Join Register Students

Meet Our
Board Members

Meet The Whole Board

Meet our board members who all have distinguished careers and achievements in music spanning decades, whose passion for music extends far beyond the classrooms.