News

News and Announcements of Bluebonnet Music Teachers Association, Williamson County Texas, USA

Tuesday, December 12, 2017

Bluebonnet News


Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1990327091212286/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com


Dear Teachers:


LAST MEETING
The luncheon was at ApplebeeÅ› in Cedar Park . In attendance were Chaok, Martha V, and Lillian. We had a delightful informal conversation about special ed, the frigid north,  music teachers associations, the irregularities of Austin, pets, families and careers. No business was discussed.
If you missed the lunch, we missed you.  We had a great
lunch.

NEXT MEETING
The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, January 9.
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park. Please RSVP to Valerie .
Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one half block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


Lillian

Bluebonnet News

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Minutes of Meeting

Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1990327091212286/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com 


Dear Teachers:


MINUTES OF MEETING

The November meeting was held on November 14 at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.  Present were Martha M, Martha V, Valerie, Mary A, Chaok, Lillian, Dianne. 

The treasurer presented the treasurer's report.

Blue ribbons were distributed.

Dianne handed out a festival report.

Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was resolved that:
The 2018-2019 theory test registration fee will be $18.
Out of association theory test fee will remain at $25.
Mary A will be the publications chairman.

It was agreed that:
In the 2017-2018 festivals, students will play as follows.
In the Fall Festival: One classical or modern piece;
and in the Spring Festival: one romantic or baroque piece.
It was agreed that for the 2018-2019 festivals students will play only one piece. 
Elementary students may play two pieces if together they total 5 minutes or less.


NOTES

The Honors Recital will be from 10:00 to 12:00.

Dianne will prepare instructions for judges.

The judge for the spring festival will be Lesley McAllister. Her bio is at: https://www.baylor.edu/music/index.php?id=859327

The judge for the Hymn Festival will be Buffy Currens. Her bio is at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/buffy-currens-44293b9

Mary A announced that new elementary students may take the theory exam two levels below their school grade level.

Mary A announced that medals will be available to theory students who test below grade level.  Teachers should specify instrumental in their SA registration notes on line.

The publication registration fee is $20.

Mary A announced that students who take the World of Music Test get 30 points. The Student Recognition list of award points is on pages 31 and 32 of the  2017-2018 TMTA Handbook. This Handbook is at https://www.tmta.org in the Members Only section.

There will be a free performance on March 17 at Lakeline Oaks Retirement Community, 1905 S. Lakeline Blvd., 512-267-3281. From 3:30  to 4:30 pm.  Memorization is not required. Students are asked to bring canned food items to donate for the Food Pantry. The chairman is Valerie. Send entries to her, two weeks before the performance. She just needs the student name and the title of the piece and the composer.

Chaok reported that TMTA is not referring Williamson inquiries to Bluebonnet.


NEXT MEETING

The next general meeting will be a Christmas lunch on Tuesday, December 12, at Applebee's in Cedar Park. 
Time: 11:00 A.M.

If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We had a great
meeting.


BAROQUE FESTIVAL




On Sunday, November 5, 2017 6:15 PM, Dianne Walker wrote:

Just wanted everyone to know the summary of yesterday's event

At the meeting on Nov 14, I will bring everyone a copy of the final scores. 
In This way we will ALL have a summary
Each teacher should be keeping up with their own studio's points  .

Please let me know IN THE SPRING when you know  you have a student eligible for their
first trophy , or second, or third (each one taller)  
Complete ONE final list in the spring AFTER the Spring Festival - for the trophy order

I am happy to order and pick up any/all trophies

S+ = 4 points, S = 3 points, S- = 2 pts, E+ = 1 pt
When a student reaches '12' points he/she has earned a trophy :-)
_________________________----
the BMTA Association had 7 teachers 7 studios represented with a total of  '51' students participating
  8 students = E+ 
11 students = S-
27 students = S
  5 students = S+

 51 students

_____________________________

THEORY

Mary A invited you to view the file "Theory Below Level Testing.mp4" on Dropbox.

Mary said:
"Hi Valerie, I have a news from TMTA Theory Team. From now on, student who takes test that are not the same level of school grade will be able to get a medal. They need to have grade 9 and up. Anyway, details is in my dropox and would like to share with the BLB members. Mary "

To view  video in dropbox, Go to:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/3yma3gy5ufsz00ixtdhro/Theory%20Below%20Level%20Testing.mp4?dl=0&oref=e&r=AAgPbipwp73JkLZS2o5oDf-dcIOrvVJJGzClBV8XBI68mxT9w62C-LGQywPtzBakL0Vli3vwEtzHNlylnjb7B1og7ZfgBrM1vb4SU654dXL-zviu4K1su-xV7tUsukOi4Pu88fVn-4E5EokYSgjzIt4m8TJq7NuXOTSVFrdDKFUfiYST1L3ex3lUBNwb8tnT_04&sm=1

Enjoy!
The Dropbox team

The new guidelines for Theory Below Level Testing can also be found in the members only section at https://www.tmta.org/  on pdf page 36 of the TMTA Handbook.
Lillian



---------------------------------
Lillian Simmons
Secretary

Monday, November 6, 2017

Bluebonnet News November

Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1990327091212286/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com


Dear Teachers:


NEXT MEETING

Next month's meeting be prepared to discuss 2018/2019 event dates. We are tentatively planning a free performance in March. Details will be decided next month.

The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, November 14.
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.
If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We had a great
meeting.

Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one half block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


THEORY


On Tuesday, October 31, 2017 10:07 AM, Mary Adams wrote:

Hi Teachers,

The time for the theory test for all students will be from 8:30am to 10:30 or 11:30 (for grades 9 to 12).
Please teachers, come at Texas State no later than 8am. You will have to prepare the classroom for the tests.
Students can start sign in at the front desk at 8:15AM.

Thanks!
Mary Adams
  Bluebonnet MTA


HELP WANTED

On Monday, October 23, 2017 11:50 AM, Beth Hotchkiss wrote:

Hello all!
I was slowly starting to expand my teaching business, but will have to speed up the process as my husband and I will be relocating to Lubbock in January. Please share this with anyone you might know who might be interested in the opportunity. Thanks so much!

Sharing the Love of Music is searching for enthusiastic and dependable teachers to join the team.The position is part time and can be based upon your availability Mon-Fri as we do not operate on weekends. Please note that lessons take place in student's homes but locations can be grouped to minimize your drive time and we provide a monthly fuel stipend.
We already have students signed up for fall so you will have students the very first day you teach for us. All administrative duties (tuition collection, scheduling, phone calls, advertising, etc) are handled by me so that teachers are free to focus on teaching lessons. It is my goal to provide plenty of support to teachers to help them maximize their instruction time with students. We have an online database with tons of studio licensed music, an iPad and data plan so you can access this database as well as educational apps, studio lesson notes and calendar through My Music Staff.

Instructor requirements:
Be available to teach at least three weekdays (Monday-Friday). hours can vary based on your availability as we do have several homeschool families.
Prefer college degree in music, or be nearing completion of a music degree. Significant private study, skill and experience may suffice in lieu of degree.
Have prior teaching experience at either a retail music store or in a public or private music school setting. Home studio teaching experience may suffice if you taught a substantial number of students.
Enjoy working with children.
Be friendly and willing to develop a rapport with parents.
Have a neat, clean and professional appearance. Prefer nonsmoker.
Be able to provide references.

If you're interested in this job and meet the above requirements, please reply with resume or descriptive letter of experience ASAP.

* Please note, we're looking for teachers who can attend lessons consistently. If you would need to frequently cancel lessons to play gigs/concerts, do sessions, or attend rehearsals, this would create an increased workload for our administrative staff and frustrate our students. We want teachers who enjoy teaching and want to be with us for at least one year.
--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Austin District Music Teachers Association" group.

Monday, October 23, 2017

Bluebonnet Newsletter

Bluebonnet MTA


Dear Teachers:


NEXT MEETING

Next month's meeting be prepared to discuss 2018/2019 event dates. We are tentatively planning a free performance in March this school year. Details will be decided next month.

The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, November 14.
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.
If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We had a great
meeting.

Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one half block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


ENSEMBLE

Handout
The ensemble parent handout has been updated to inform that the registration fee is not refundable. It is on line in the yearbook at http://bluebonnetmta.org/yearbook.html

Rehearsals
On Monday, October 16, 2017 12:33 PM, Mary Adams wrote:
 Hi ladies,
 I am organizing my schedule/calendar and noticed that May/27 (Sunday afternoon) is my studio recital.
Therefore, I will have to have the practice/dress rehearsal on May/26 (Saturday afternoon).
Sorry for any inconvenience and Thanks for understanding!
Mary A


  OTHER EVENTS

1.
Classic Chamber Concerts - City of Round Rock

2.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Kwak, Jason J
Date: Mon, Oct 16, 2017 at 2:28 PM
Subject: Texas State University Piano Day
To: ADMTA Communications <austintxmusicteachers@gmail.com>

Dear Colleagues,

Greetings to everyone from San Marcos. I hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful cool weather.

The Piano Department at Texas State University is pleased to present Texas State Piano Day
​ on Nov. 11, 2017​
. This day will feature many aspects of our thriving piano program. Piano Day will include lessons, masterclasses, and mini-workshops in important subjects such as accompanying, pedagogy, and career options. Students will work closely with six of our highly qualified piano professors. The day will conclude with a recital by current and former Texas State University piano majors.

ELIGIBILITY - Piano students in grades 8 - 12. Teachers and parents are encouraged to attend all events during the day. Students are asked to have one piece prepared to play in a lesson. Memorization is optional.

PIANO DAY FEE- $10/person for all attending. Lunch will be provided. Everyone attending must register.

PIANO DAY FACULTY- Dr. Jason Kwak (Area Coordinator), Dr. Daria Rabotkina, Dr. Kyung Ae Lee, Dr. Alena Gorina, Dr. Ezra Bartz, Dr. Kayla Chon

Please visit our website at
www.music.txstate.edu/piano/ Pianoday
--
Dr. Jason J. Kwak
Professor of Piano
Head – Keyboard Area
Graduate Advisor
Texas State University
Director
Texas State International Piano Festival
www.tsipf.com

-----------------

Lillian Simmons
Secretary

Friday, October 13, 2017

Minutes of Meeting


Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home. html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com


Dear Teachers,


MINUTES OF MEETING

The October meeting was held at the Studio of Valerie Hesters in Leander on  October 10, 2017.

Present were: Valerie, Mary A, LeeAnn, Martha M, Lillian.

The treasurer submitted a treasurer's report.

Motion was made by Martha M and seconded by LeeAnn to make a separate ribbon color for the ranking "superior +" (possibly red)


ENSEMBLE

Ensemble: music was selected for 2 groups:

-Beginner: Parade of Champions
Parade of Champions by Wendy Stevens  Compose Create.com   2016  Compose  Create LLC

-Intermediate: He's A Pirate
It is from the book called:
Contemporary Disney Duets. Music by Klaus Badelt . Publisher: Hal Leonard

There will be a teacher Jury for students to play at on either April 7 or 8 and song must be memorized at that time.  A document for parents needs to be provided stating that the ensemble fee is non-refundable if student does not pass teacher jury and is not allowed to participate in ensemble.

Practice dates as follows (following confirmation of location): Sundays: April 22, April 29, May 6, May 20, May 27, June 10.  Costume rehearsal June 27.  Presentation at honors recital June 2.


NOTES

Theory
Theory: Mary requests help with proofreading tests when they come in; Valerie and LeeAnn offered help.  Mary would also like to have a co-chair with the possibility of training the co-chair to take over as chair in the future


NEXT MEETING

Next month's meeting be prepared to discuss 2018/2019 event dates. We are tentatively planning a free performance in March. Details will be decided next month.

The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, November 14.
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.
 If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We had a great
meeting.

Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one half block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


Lillian Simmons
Secretary

Monday, September 25, 2017

Bluebonnet News

nnet MTA
Website:  http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1990327091212286/
email: BluebonnetMTA@live.com


Dear Teachers:


LAST MEETING

 If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
 http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We had a great
 meeting.


NEXT MEETING

The next general meeting will be held at Valerie's house, 2813 Granite Hill Cove, Leander 78641,  on Tuesday October 10 at 10:30 am. We will be selecting duets for the ensemble at this meeting.


BAROQUE FESTIVAL




On Thursday, September 21, 2017 11:11 AM, Martha Marks <mimimarks66@gmail.com> wrote:
I will print the certificates and the critique sheets.
Martha Marks


MEMBERSHIP

The updated membership directory is attached.  Be aware that we don't publish it on line for security reasons. So you need to keep it in your local computer.


TEACHER REFERRAL

Please let me know if you would like to make any changes to your teacher referral listing at: http://bluebonnetmta.org/teachers.html


THEORY MATERIALS

The theory certificate templates are on line at:
https://www.tmta.org/student-activities/student-affiliate-activities/theory/
I recommend that these be printed on 32 pound paper.

Last year's theory tests and answer keys are available for purchase at: https://www.tmta.org/student-activities/student-affiliate-activities/theory/


WEBSITE

On Thursday, September 14, 2017 6:23 AM, Valerie Hesters <vhesters@gmail.com> wrote:

Hi ladies,
Our new group is up and running, so I've sent friend requests to those of you I could find 😊 you can accept my request and I can add you to the group, or you can search for "Bluebonnet Music Teachers Association" and request to join and I will add you.  Please let your students' families know to join the group. 
Thanks!
Valerie

The link to the facebook page is now in the website.
Lillian


OTHER EVENTS

Dear Colleagues,
A delightful concert is going to take place this Monday, September 25, 7:30 pm, at Bates Hall at UT. Our wonderful young colleagues from Dallas Catharine Lysinger and Alex McDonald will present a bright duo piano recital. gO TO:

http://music.utexas.edu/events/2336-catharine-lysinger-alex-mcdonald-piano-duo
I happened to be their hostess and I want them to have a good audience. Please come and bring your students!
Thank you.
Best,
Sophia
______________________________ ___
Sophia Gilmson
Associate Professor of Piano Pedagogy
The University of Texas at Austin
Butler School of Music
2406 Robert Dedman Dr., E3100
Austin, TX 78712
Phone: (512) 471-0750
Fax: (512) 471-7836
http://www.music.utexas.edu/ directory/details.aspx?id=43
http://www.sophia-gilmson.com/

Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Bluebonnet News September 2017


Bluebonnet MTA
Website:  http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html

Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/

BluebonnetMTA@live.com


Dear Teachers:


MINUTES OF MEETING

The monthly meeting of Bluebonnet MTA was held on September 12 at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.  Present were Valerie, Lillian, Martha M, Martha V, Mary A, LeeAnn, Dianne.


RESOLUTION

Dianne motioned that registration for ensemble be increased to $35 this school year.  Martha M seconded the motion.  The motion passed.


IT WAS AGREED THAT:

There will be no ensemble stipend this school year.
The late fee for SA registration be $20, starting October 1.
Valerie have access to the website.


NOTES

Mary A suggested that we should have a meeting of the Board of Directors in August, because there usually are matters that change and need to be handled.

Treasurer Martha V reported to  President Valerie  that our finances are too tight.

President Valerie suggested that we ask parents to post pictures and notes in our Facebook page.

Valerie suggested that we offer free performance opportunities for our students.  Teachers are encouraged to look for venues.

Valerie suggested that we add officer contacts in our website.

Mary A is planning to offer a Spring Theory Test make-up.

Martha M will be chairman of World of Music test. The exam date will be in February or March of this school year. SA enrollment is not needed to participate.  The fee for the test will be $10.

Valerie will contact Steinway about next schoolyear's event dates.

It was decided to publish Valerie's simplified event calendar in addition to the more detailed  teacher calendar in the yearbook.

Valerie suggested we all promote our association whenever we can.


NEXT MEETING

The next general meeting will be held at Valerie's house,  on Tuesday October 10 at 10:30 am. We will be selecting duets for the ensemble at this meeting.


Lillian Simmons
Secretary

  

Monday, September 11, 2017

Bluebonnet News September 5, 2017

Bluebonnet MTA
Website:  http://bluebonnetmta.org/home. html
Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/ groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com


Dear Teachers,


MEETING

Next Meeting
The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park. This is the meet & greet meeting. Bring a friend teacher. Looking forward to seeing you all.

Directions
Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one half block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.

Last Meeting
If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We had a great
meeting.


SPRING THEORY

The date for the Spring theory test has been changed.  It was previously scheduled for Saturday February 3.  It has been changed to Saturday February 10. Same time, same place.


YEARBOOK

The yearbook has been updated.  It is on line at http://bluebonnetmta.org/ yearbook.html 

 

Newsletter August 2017


Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com 


Dear Teachers:


Teachers, welcome to the new school year!

The next meeting will be on Tuesday September 13 at Panera Bread at 10:30 am.

Remember that the SA registration deadline for regular fee is Sept 12. When you register students in SA, include their middle name whenever possible.  TMTA appreciates that. It's a better identifier. It helps them identify transfer students.

The SA registration instructions are under SA Information in the yearbook at: http://bluebonnetmta.org/yearbook.html


ENSEMBLE

The Phantom ensemble photo is now in the website. Go to: http://bluebonnetmta.org/galleryen.html
I recommend that you post photos of ensembles in a prominent spot in your studio.  This is a theory test motivator. I'm attaching a large high definition image which you can print in your printer. Use photo paper. Set your printer page format to  landscape orientation. I have not received photos of the other ensembles.


CALENDAR

The teacher calendar is attached. The student events calendar is updated and is in the yearbook at: http://bluebonnetmta.org/yearbook.html




Lillian Simmons
Secretary

Sunday, July 30, 2017

Newsletter

Dear Teachers,


CALENDAR

Here's a template for yearly academic calendar.  You can insert your studio event dates. Go to:  https://www.calendarlabs.com/school-calendar/

School Calendar 2017 - 2018 & Academic Calendar Templates
www.calendarlabs.com
Free school calendar 2017-2018 and academic calendar templates are available here. This is an ideal place to create elementary, country & public school calendar.





Mail received:

From: Brooke Harman Sent: Friday, June 30, 2017 12:25 PM
To: BluebonnetMTA@live.com
Subject: Local Music Nonprofit Community Outreach Partnership
 
Hello,

My name is Brooke, the Outreach Coordinator for Kids In A New Groove. We are a local music nonprofit, providing central TX youth in foster care with mentorship through committed, one-on-one music lessons.

I am contacting you today because we are in need of more music mentors and would love to partner with some of our wonderful community members through media/email to broaden  our outreach and to raise awareness. We thought of BlueBonnetMTA and your music community and musician base -- would you perhaps be willing to share this email blast about our program: https://t.e2ma.net/message/z1ept/v6noxj?  You can also find out more about us here: http://kidsinanewgroove.org/). 

Thank you so much! I look forward to hearing from you and hopefully connecting with you within our community in the future!

Have a wonderful weekend.
 --
Brooke Harman
Outreach Coordinator
Kids In A New Groove
(512) 596-5441
www.kidsinanewgroove.org

Newsletter

Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com 


Dear Teachers:


The general meeting and lunch was held at Applebee's in Cedar Park on Friday  May 11.  Present were Valerie, LeeAnn, Lillian, Martha V.

There was lively discussion about finances, ensemble registration deadline, ensemble stipend, ensemble piece levels, event fees.


MEETINGS

Next Meeting
The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.
Directions
Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one half block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.

Last Meeting
If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We had a great
meeting.


ENSEMBLE

At this time of the year, parents begin to plan their summer vacation for next year.  If you would like to get your students in ensemble, this is a good time to suggest it. We have an introductory ensemble spiel in our website at item No. 5 in the SA page. Go to: http://bluebonnetmta.org/sa.html


OTHER EVENTS

Juilliard Open Classroom - on line summer school
Go to:
http://open.juilliard.edu/courses/sharpen-your-piano-artistry?gclid=CIq3ydCh6NMCFYi4wAod2aIBjg


SUMMER

Guys, It's been a great year!  Have a good summer!


Lillian Simmons
Secretary

Minutes of Meeting

Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/


Dear Teachers:


NEXT MEETING

The next general meeting and lunch will be a lunch on Friday, May 12, 2017 at Applebee's in Cedar Park, at 11:00 am.
Applebee's Directions: http://www.applebees.com/locations


  ADDENDUM TO APRIL MINUTES:

Upon Motion duly made by Dianne, and seconded by Mary A,
It was Resolved:
That the Master Composers Festivals be alternated in the Fall between Baroque and Classical, and in the Spring between Romantic and Contemporary.

In the 2017-2018 school year, the Fall Festival will be Baroque Plus Choice, and the Spring Festival will be Romantic Plus Choice.
 In the 2018-2019 school year, the Fall Festival will be Classical Plus Choice, and the Spring Festival will be Contemporary Plus Choice.


NOTES

Teachers must keep track of trophy points for their students, and apply for Bluebonnet trophies to the Trophies Chairman. The trophies information page of the yearbook has been updated accordingly.

41 students have registered for the spring festival.

Lillian will prepare the programs for the Honors Recitals in June 2017. Send registration names to Lillian.


THEORY

The updated theory parent handout is now on line in the yearbook at http://bluebonnetmta.org/yearbook.html

Sunday, April 16, 2017

Minutes of Meeting

BLUEBONNET MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com 


Dear Teachers:


MINUTES OF MEETING

The general meeting of Bluebonnet MTA was held at Panera Bread on Tuesday April 11. If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We had a great
meeting.


NOTES

Hymn
The Hymn Festival reservation for 2017-2018 is pending. 

Ensemble
The ensemble stipend will be $75 this school year.
The ensemble registration payment goes to Martha V.,

Meeting
The May general meeting and lunch  will be at Applebee's in Cedar Park on Friday May 12.

Honors
Lillian will make the two Honors Recital programs for the end of year honors recital. 
Students can play anything at the honors recital.

Calendar
 The teacher and student events calendars have been updated and are on line in the yearbook.


NEXT MEETING

The next general meeting and lunch will be on Friday, May 12, 2017 at Applebee's in Cedar Park, at 11:00 am.
  Applebee's Directions: http://www.applebees.com/locations


Lillian Simmons
Secretary
Bluebonnet MTA

Monday, April 3, 2017

Newsletter April

Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home. html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com


Dear Teachers:


Last Meeting
 If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
 http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We  had a great  meeting.

Next Meeting
 The next meeting will be on Tuesday April 11 at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.
Time: 10:30 A.M.   Please remember to not wear perfume.

Directions
Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


ADDENDUM TO MARCH MINUTES

The meeting began with Martha giving this  message to remember.
5P's
Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance

Upon Motion made by Dianne, and seconded by Mary A, the Ensemble directors will get reimbursed for convention fee, gas, and food.

    It was agreed that we will donate $50 to TMTA, and we will get mentioned in the convention book.


CALENDAR

The rough draft of the new Bluebonnet 2017-2018 Event Calendar is now on line in the yearbook at: http://bluebonnetmta.org/ yearbook.html


OTHER EVENTS

For your information, the 2017-2018 academic calendar for Round Rock ISD is now on line at: https://drive.google.com/file/ d/ 0ByDbfMafTyNdUV9wR3ZHWkZWUU0/ view

Philadelphia International Music Camp and Festival
Go to: https:// philadelphiamusicfestival.org/


Lillian Simmons
Secretary

Monday, March 13, 2017

Minutes of Meeting


Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com 


Dear Teachers,


MINUTES OF MEETING

The monthly meeting of Bluebonnet Music Teachers Association was held on March 7 at Panera Bread in Cedar Park. Present were Valerie, LeeAnn, Martha M, Lillian, Martha V, Dianne, Mary A.

The Treasurer gave a treasurer report.

Upon motion duly made by Martha M and seconded by Dianne,
IT WAS RESOLVED THAT:
Valerie will be the president for next school year.
The Motion passed unanimously.

Upon motion duly made by Lillian and seconded by Valerie,
IT WAS RESOLVED THAT:
The stipend for ensemble students will be $75.
The motion passed unanimously.


NOTES

The Judge for the Baroque Festival will be Kiyoshi Tamagawa. His biography is at:
http://www.southwestern.edu/departments/faculty/faculty.php?id=tamagawk

Late registration for ensemble can be accepted until February 15.
The ensemble costumes will be around $20 to $30.

The Hymn Festival will be Saturday December 2 at Steinway Piano Gallery. The Fall Honors Recital will be Saturday December 2 at 5:00 at Steinway Piano Gallery.

Valerie suggested that we set up a form for certificates at Google Drive.

The next meeting will be on April 11 at 10:30 am at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.


TECHNICAL MATTERS

A piano stool is essential for enabling good piano performance.
How to select a stool. Go to:
http://www.yrose.us/wp/stool.html
Lillian


Lillian Simmons
Secretary

Sunday, February 26, 2017

Newsletter


Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html


MEETING

Last Meeting
 If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
 http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We  had a great  meeting.

Next Meeting
The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, March 6, 2017.
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.  Please remember to not wear perfume.

Directions
Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


DEADLINES

Baroque Deadline
Tues Mar 14






ANNOUNCEMENTS

Lillian's award dinner will be April 15.  Bluebonnet Teachers and their students are invited. The announcement is at: http://www.yrose.us/wp/award.html


Lillian Simmons, Secretary
Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home. html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/610028335811670/

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Minutes of Meeting


Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html


MINUTES OF MEETING

The February meeting was held on February 14 at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.  Present were Martha M, Martha V, Lillian, Dianne, LeeAnn, Valerie.

It was decided that:

The Baroque Festival will be held in the fall of next school year. 
The tentative event schedule is:
Baroque Festival Nov. 4, Sat
Theory exam Nov. 11, Sat
Honors Recital Nov. 18 - not confirmed.
Hymn Festival Dec 2 or 9 at Steinway or New Hope Church
Spring Festival April 14 - tentative date.
Honors Recital Sat June 2
Ensemble presentation Sat June 2

The first general meeting of next school year will be Tuesday Sept 12. This is a meet & greet meeting; bring a friend.

Ensemble rehearsals will begin the last Saturday in April.  They will be held at Velocity Music Academy.
3:00 Jalapeño
4:00 Phantom
5:00 Rag
No points will be given for Hymn Festival.
We should use the association's
 tax exemption when buying festival trophies.
Martha M would like to find a new President for next school year.

Notes

Lillian recommended the video Bach's Fight For Freedom. Go to: https://www.amazon.com/Bachs-Fight-Freedom-Johann-Sebastian/dp/B0006GAOLI/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1487192777&sr=1-1&keywords=bach%27s+fight+for+freedom

Martha M  will be the Spring Festival Chairman. Dianne will be the assistant.
We will continue to request three rooms for theory exams at TSU.


MEETING

Next Meeting
The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, March 7, 2017.
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.    Please remember to not wear perfume.

Directions
Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


FESTIVAL

Dianne's studio festival handout was too good. Only an experienced chairman could come up with that! So I have published it in the yearbook as a festival registration guide handout for parents. 


ENSEMBLES

The parent/student handout for ensembles is in the yearbook at: http://bluebonnetmta.org/yearbook.html
It contains information that parents will want.


Lillian Simmons
Secretary
Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com 

Monday, February 6, 2017

February Newsletter


Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html


MEETING

Last Activity
 If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
 http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We  had a great  meeting.

Next Meeting
The next general meeting will be on Tuesday, February 14, 2017.
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.   Please remember to not wear perfume.

Directions
Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


ENSEMBLE

Why perform in an ensemble.
Go to:
https://wirthcenter.org/crescendo/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Millner-Why-Perform-in-an-Ensemble.pdf


Lillian Simmons
Secretary
Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com 

Tuesday, January 10, 2017

Bluebonnet News



Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html


Dear Colleagues,
 

MEETING

Last Activity
 If you missed the last meeting, we missed you. Check our newsletters at
 http://bluebonnetmta.org/ so you know what we discussed. We  had a great  meeting.
Happy New Year!  Hope your holidays were wonderful and that you are energized for the New Year.

Next Meeting
The NEXT general meeting will be on Tuesday, January 10, 2017.
Time: 10:30 A.M. at Panera Bread in Cedar Park.   Please remember to not wear perfume.

Directions
Panera Bread, 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park 78717. 996-8300. Turn
from 183 onto Lakeline Mall Drive by Strait Music. This is one block
east of 183. Turn left into the shopping center.  Turn left at Target.


HONORS RECITAL

Schedule
Hymn Festival students that get a Superior rating may perform at the Honors Recital.
Teachers, be aware that the Honors Recital is only one week after the Hymn Festival.

Be Ready
You may want to announce the Honors Recital to your Hymn students
before the Hymn Festival. So that they'll be ready, in case they want to perform at Honors Recital.

Deadline
 I'll take registrations for Honors Recital until Tuesday January 17. To register in Honors Recital, send student names, titles of pieces and composers to lillian1961@att.net by Tuesday January 17.
Lillian


HYMN FESTIVAL

Judge
 The judge for Hymn Festival will be Buffy Currens.  Her biography is at
https://pianobuffy.musicteachershelper.com/my-resume


SA EVENTS

Theory
1. Deadline
Deadline for registration for theory test is January 3.
2. Handout
For students who will take the Theory exam: Teachers, please remember to give your students the Parent Handout. You can find it in the yearbook at http://bluebonnetmta.org/yearbook.html

SA Registration
The last day to register students who will be taking the theory test in Student Affiliate is January 3. The teacher events calendar is in the yearbook at: http://bluebonnetmta.org/yearbook.html

Ensemble
If you are registering any ensemble students:
Please remember to complete their ID or contact information in your student listings at the TMTA website https://www.tmta.org/
with complete contact information for your ensemble students.
 The ensemble Chairman will need this information.


JANUARY 2017 ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Pedals Pipes and Pizza 
On Saturday, February 18th, the Austin, TX Chapter of the American Guild
of Organists will be sponsoring *Pedals, Pipes and Pizza* - a program
designed to introduce young musicians to the pipe organ. All pianists
between 11- 16 years of age are invited. The program will be hosted at
University Presbyterian Church (2203 San Antonio Street Austin, TX 78705).
Members of the chapter and the host church will be available to help the
students to explore and learn about the pipe organ.
Following introductions, the students will hear, see and play the pipe
organ. The students will learn about similarities and differences between
the piano and a pipe organ. They will enjoy an informative demonstration,
view videos about the history and construction of pipe organs, and have a
chance to play a piece on the organ. We’ll also be serving pizza for lunch.
There is a $10 registration fee per student payable in advance to reserve
a spot for the event. A parent/guardian is welcome to attend the event with
the student ($5 fee if they choose to join us for lunch). Each student
should bring a short (2 min. or less) prepared piece to play on the
pipe organ keyboards (suggested selections might include a hymn or work by
a Baroque Composer). We will limit the event to 15 student participants.
Help us spread the word and interest for this event.
For more information or with questions, contact Marti Ahern, event chair,
at 512-219-7457 or by email: mahern@austin.rr.com .

2. Wednesday Morning Music Club Wilcox Maurer Competition
The competition for the Wilcox, Maurer, Putter and Rudd Awards for High School
Musicians, sponsored by the Wednesday Morning Music Club, will be held on Saturday,
March 18, 2017 at Steinway Piano Gallery, 12980 Research Blvd., in Austin.  Awards
range from $700 to $1200.  The deadline for registration is February 17, 2017.  For
repertoire and requirements, go to www.musicclubaustin.org, “Competitions and
Awards,” and download an application from High School Competition.


Lillian Simmons
Secretary
Bluebonnet MTA
Website: http://bluebonnetmta.org/home.html
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/610028335811670/
email BluebonnetMTA@live.com