Awards

MTNA annually presents the following awards, which recognize excellence in music teaching, research and other significant contributions to music education.


The MTNA Achievement Award, MTNA's highest honor, is bestowed upon an individual who has made significant and lasting contributions to the music teaching profession.

The MTNA Citation for Leadership is given only at special times to recognize significant and lasting contributions to MTNA, music teachers and the music teaching profession.

The MTNA Distinguished Service Award is given in recognition of significant and long-term contribution to the National Association.

The American Music Teacher (AMT) Article of the Year Award is presented to the outstanding author of a feature article written expressly for AMT.

The MTNA e-Journal Article of the Year Award is presented to the outstanding author of a feature article written expressly for the MTNA e-Journal.

The MTNA Collegiate Chapter of the Year Award is given to the MTNA Collegiate Chapter that demonstrates excellence in its chapter activities.

The Fifty-Year Membership Award recognizes those individuals who have been members of MTNA for at least 50 continuous years.

Frances Clark Award for Keyboard Pedagogy is given to an individual who has made a significant contribution through the creation and development of products or publications that further the field of keyboard pedagogy.

Teacher of the Year Award is presented to the candidate who most clearly demonstrates a strong commitment to the music teaching profession.

State Affiliate of the Year Award recognizes the state Music Teachers Association that makes the most significant contribution to the music teaching profession through participation in MTNA national programs and additional programs established within their state.

Local Association of the Year Award recognizes the local Music Teachers Association that makes the most significant contribution to the music teaching profession through participation in MTNA national programs and additional programs established within their state and local area.

The MTNA Distinguished Composer of the Year Award is given to a selected composer of a state-commissioned work.

MarySue Harris Studio Teacher Fellowship Award is presented to three candidates who most clearly demonstrates a strong commitment to the music teaching profession. The program was established to help music teachers develop and enhance their newly established studios. 

The Stecher & Horowitz Power of Innovation Award is a $10,000 prize presented annually to a young professional artist/teacher who embodies an entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach in their life and work.