Northwest Division.

The Northwest Division meeting at the 2005 Summit for MTNA Leadership in Cincinnati, Ohio, allowed for a wonderful dialogue among the six state presidents and president-select, as well as other representatives from the Northwest Division. Each officer shared news of their state's past and future events. Individual concerns and problems were discussed, and new insights were gained through these conversations. Topics discussed included fundraising opportunities, creative new-member recruiting methods for state and local chapters, certification and volunteerism.

Washington MTA held a leadership seminar in September. Its state summit allowed state officers, chairs and chapter presidents to meet, get acquainted, exchange ideas and develop leadership skills.

The Oregon MTA scholarship fund has grown considerably this year through many new contributions. This past year, there were cash prizes awarded to 29 students representing 20 teachers. These students competed and performed in auditions in May 2005.

Idaho MTA completed its state conference and competitions this past November in Boise. Keith Snell, from the Nell A. Kjos Music Co., was the guest clinician, presenting his new piano method, Piano Town, which he co-authored with Diane Hidy.

The Wyoming MTA state conference is June 22-24, 2006, at the Western Wyoming Community College in Rock Springs. Semyon Denisov from the St. Petersburg Conservatory of Music will be the conference guest artist. The Northwest Division Competitions will be held January 13-15, 2006, at the Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon.

Kenneth Christensen

Bozeman, Montana