National conference: opportunities abound. (Dear Reader).

I attended my first MTNA National Conference directly out of graduate school, just starting my very first teaching position. To give you some idea of how long ago it was, the conference registration fee was $7.50. I came away from that first conference thoroughly invigorated and inspired.

I vividly recall my excitement seeing so many distinguished pedagogical and performing legends in person. Over the years, many of these same people have become cherished friends who today enrich my life. That's one of the many benefits of MTNA membership--the connections and camaraderie you develop with other teachers.

This will be my eighteenth national conference, the last eleven consecutive. Every year I look forward to this gathering; it offers a wealth of opportunities I don't want to miss. Allow me to tell you about a few.

The MTNA National Conference offers the opportunity:

To hear first-rate performers and observe outstanding teaching demonstrations.

The outstanding performers and master teachers I have had the privilege to see have helped shape who I am as a musician.

To attend excellent sessions on a wide range of pertinent topics, helping me remain pedagogically up to date.

Each year I learn new ideas and teaching approaches that encourage me to either rethink or reaffirm what I already do.

To hear repertoire that you can't hear elsewhere.

I first heard a live performance of the Ives Concord Sonata at an MTNA Convention. The same is true of the Crumb Makrokosmos II.

To hear incredibly talented students perform in the various competitions.

The caliber of student competitors is more amazing each year.

To attend Pedagogy Saturday, the Technology in Music Symposium and Professional Studio Saturday.

As the conference offerings continue to expand, I have been able to take advantage of these specialized options.

To peruse music, books, software, instruments and countless other items in the ever-expanding exhibit hall.

This is where I do a great deal of my music shopping. The showcases also are fun and very beneficial.

To network, mingle and exchange ideas with colleagues.

Whether it's finding a guest clinician for your MTA conference or lining up a performance or master class, the MTNA Conference is the place to make these contacts and nurture friendships.

To have a great time at the MTNA Gala, enjoying the food, the people and the entertainment while contributing toward a very good cause, the MTNA FOUNDATION.

Although the galas have varied over the years, they always are fun.

To attend the Awards Brunch that provides a sense of history and feelings of pride as the different awards are presented.

These events often have had very emotional moments that make me grateful to be part of this profession and this organization.

To travel to different regions of the country, having the opportunity to see the sights that make these areas so unique.

MTNA conferences have taken me from Spokane to Miami Beach and lots of places in between. Each location and each conference holds special memories.

So, come join me in Cincinnati, where you can share in many of these same opportunities. I promise you will be happy you did. I look forward to seeing you there!

Gail Berenson, NCTM
National Conference Chair
Athens, Ohio