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

Sep 4, 2025 (2:00PM)

Board Meetings

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

Sep 11, 2025 (2:00PM)

CANCELLED Teacher’s Forum

A general, informal meeting for teachers with a theme of teaching improvisation.

Nov 6, 2025 (3:00PM)

" But it's not in the music"- Interpretive Choices with Elaine Friedlander

Zoom workshop

Jan 15, 2026 (3:00PM)

Jasmin Arakaw's Passport for the Informed Pianist: Pedagogical Principles by Emile Naoumoff based on the Legacy of Nadia Boulanger

Published in 2009, Emile Naoumoff’s Passeport pour un pianist Averti: Nourriture pour une réflexion musicale (Passport for the Informed Pianist: Food for thought on musicianship) is a collection of principles and advice for aspiring teachers and students, currently available only in French. This collection contains 69 principles that govern multiple aspects of music, ranging from technique to interpretation, followed by practical and philosophical advice to be a comprehensive musician.

View All Events

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.