Greater Pittsburgh Chapter

Our History

The Greater Pittsburgh Chapter of PMTA is the Pittsburgh affiliate of Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), the oldest professional nonprofit music association in the United States and comprising over 24,000 independent and college music teachers nationwide.  Our members are independent and college music teachers representing a variety of instruments and voice, with studios in all areas of Pittsburgh, including North, South, East and West Hills. 

Originally conceived in 1940, plans to create PMTA were delayed due to world conditions.  In 1948, the state chapter along with its first president was formed. Within two years more than 300 teachers had joined. Certification was the principal topic at the business meeting in 1951. In 1952 PMTA held its convention in Pittsburgh.  Dallmeyer Russell was elected president and served until 1957.  The state was divided into 7 regions each with its own chairman. In 1981 the Dorothy Sutton Performance Festival was created and chaired by Dorothy Sutton.  This was a festival for students not ready for the regular competitions. Our own Bertha Little served as Local President of Southwest District.  It was referred to as Southwest Local.

In 1985 the newly formed South Hills Chapter (now known as the Greater Pittsburgh Chapter) received official approval at the PMTA State Convention in November.  The founding members were:  Lois Smith, President; Harry Coleman, Vice President; Bertha Little, Secretary; Elizabeth Lang, Treasurer; Charlotte Coleman, Publicity Chairman; Muriel Duel, Grace McMilan, and Betty Jo Reiley.  The first official meeting was held September 8, 1986.  Lois Streator and Lisa Spang were current members and the membership was expected to increase to 16 by June 1987. 

Presently, Greater Pittsburgh Chapter (GPC) includes some 40 members, many whom hold dual membership with PPTA.  Harry Coleman served as president followed by Charlotte Coleman followed by Sue Garnhart followed by Jeff Harris. As of June 2007, Connie Kean became chapter president with Ellen Johnson replacing her in July 2008 due to Connie's relocation.