About Us
History
The Hattiesburg Piano Teachers League was founded in February 1972. Founder Janice Mesrobian had previously been a member of a similar organization in Wichita, Kansas, and had found it essential to the professional piano teacher. She set about to establish such an organization in Hattiesburg. There were 14 charter members and 5 student members that spring. Mrs. Mesrobian is still a member.
In 1976, the Hattiesburg Piano Teachers League became a local affiliate of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) and its affiliate, the Mississippi Music Teachers Association (MMTA.) The purposes of these professional organizations are similar to the original goals of the League.
Because of the growing number of music educators in areas other than piano, the League changed its name to the Hattiesburg Music Teachers League (HMTL) in May 1990.
Opportunities
Membership in the HMTL affords many wonderful opportunities to members and their students. Not only do members enjoy meeting and exchanging ideas with other colleagues in the field, but their students can also profit from participation in league recitals, as well as local, state, and national festivals and competitions (participation fees apply.) HMTL also holds scholarship auditions for students who are interested in attending local and state summer music camps. See the "Student Activities" tab for more information about HMTL activities. In addition, the League hosts a biennial Composer Festival which has drawn many esteemed composers to Hattiesburg. (List of Composers)