The Hawaii Music Teachers Association (HMTA) is an affiliate of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) and a resource for music teachers and students across the state of Hawaii.

Our Mission

The Hawaii Music Teachers Association's mission is to promote the professional growth and development of its members and to further the art of music by providing programs that encourage and support teaching and performance.

50 Years of Music!

The Hawai‘i Music Teachers Association (HMTA) was conceived and founded in August 1968 at a tea held in honor of Celia Mae Bryant, then vice-president of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA). Alice Kiewit was appointed as president, and Amy Mitsuda took on the roles of treasurer and secretary. Thanks to their efforts, HMTA received its charter from MTNA in September 1968, becoming the 49th state affiliate. Since its founding, HMTA has strived to fulfill the purposes outlined in its constitution: "To promote the professional growth and development of its members and to further the art of music by providing programs that encourage and support teaching and performance."

HMTA offers opportunities such as competitions, master classes, workshops, and recitals for both students and members. In 2024, HMTA hosted a multi-string concert titled "Stringmania," with over 150 string students. Between 2001 and 2010, HMTA presented multi-piano concerts called "Pianomania," with over 350 piano students from Oahu, Hawai‘i Island, and Kaua‘i performing in each concert. In 2008, the "Parade of Young Musicians" offered students a chance to participate in a fun, relaxed, and non-competitive festival. The students were adjudicated, recognized for their efforts, and given an opportunity to perform in a finale recital at Orvis Auditorium at the University of Hawai‘i. In 2011, the Parade of Young Musicians opened the HMTA annual convention, and in September 2012, the "duets only" edition of the Parade had its premiere.

In 2024-2025, HMTA continues to host the Hawai‘i State Music Competition (formerly the HMTA Junior Artist Competition), student recitals, and master classes. The association is also continuing exciting programs such as "Stringmania," "Pair-up & Play," and "Side-by-Side." "Stringmania" featured 150 students performing a multi-string concert at 'Iolani School in January 2025. "Pair-up & Play" will feature student piano and instrumental groups, with the concert taking place at Punahou School in April 2025. "Side-by-Side" will showcase HMTA members and students performing chamber music together at ‘Iolani School in May 2025.