OhioMTA State Conference 2025 Highlights

A Weekend of Inspiration at the 2025 OhioMTA State Conference

The 2025 OhioMTA State Conference in Van Wert was filled with the kind of energy you can only get when music teachers gather in one place. From the very first session to the final performance, it was a weekend of fresh ideas, genuine connection, and a renewed sense of purpose for our work.

Opening Day

The conference began on Thursday with opening remarks from OhioMTA President Andy Villemez. His welcome set the stage for what would be an engaging three days of learning and sharing.

The first afternoon included Dr Rebecca Casey’s presentation Concert Pianist in a Nazi Ghetto The Story of Professor Bernard Kaff, a moving session that highlighted the resilience of music even in the most difficult circumstances. Later, Phil Schey and the Piano Technicians Guild shared What Are Your Students Playing On, giving teachers insight into how instrument condition affects student progress. Clinton Pratt closed the day with Practice Makes Perfect, a practical and motivating look at how to teach students effective and efficient practice strategies.

That evening, attendees enjoyed time together at a banquet at Willow Bend Country Club, featuring guest speaker Gregory Brown.

Friday Highlights

Friday morning began with a Royal Conservatory of Music panel where several Ohio teachers shared their experiences using the curriculum to support student success. The day continued with Janna Williamson’s session on leadership in the piano studio, followed by Niayesh Javaheri and Hannah Zaborski presenting creative ideas from Emma Lou Diemer’s Space Suite.

Amy Chaplin’s session A New Primer Audiation Based Lessons for Young Beginners gave teachers an inside look at how movement, art, and improvisation can transform lessons for the youngest students.

In the afternoon, attendees heard the premiere of the 2025 Commissioned Composer work From Within by Zachery Meier. The piece was performed by Tower Duo, Erin Helgeson Torres on flute and Michael Rene Torres on saxophone, and was a memorable and moving part of the weekend.

Saturday with Dr Paola Savvidou

On Saturday, featured pedagogue Dr Paola Savvidou turned the focus toward teacher wellness and student performance. Her morning session Self Care Essentials Preventing Teacher Burnout provided thoughtful and practical ways to sustain energy in a busy teaching life. Later, her presentation Embracing Fear Performance Anxiety Strategies and Management offered guidance on supporting students through performance stress and transforming fear into excitement.

The conference closed with student guest artist performances and a final brunch, sending attendees home both encouraged and inspired.

Special Recognition

One of the most meaningful moments of the weekend was honoring Elizabeth Swift NCTM as the 2025 Certified Teacher of the Year. Elizabeth has dedicated her career to creative, student centered teaching, has contributed published works for pianists of all levels, and has served the Southwest District with enthusiasm and care.

Closing Concert

The conference ended with an unforgettable concert by The 5 Browns. Their artistry and ensemble playing created a powerful reminder of the joy and community that music brings. It was the perfect finale to a weekend dedicated to growth, connection, and the beauty of music.

Heading Home

As the weekend came to a close, teachers left Van Wert with tired feet but renewed energy. The presentations, hallway conversations, and outstanding performances all served as a reminder of why we do this work and how important it is to support one another along the way.

The 2025 OhioMTA State Conference was not just a schedule of events, but a true gathering of colleagues and friends. The ideas shared and connections made will continue to ripple through our studios in the year ahead.