The teaching goes on.(Dear Reader)(Editorial)

As the year comes to a close, I've found myself reflecting on the past twelve months and what they have meant for MTNA. Several things come to mind: partnerships being forged with the Canadian Federation of Music Teacher's Associations and China's Ministry of Culture, broadening MTNA's reach; a successful Summit for MTNA Leadership; and the compilation and distribution of the Assessment Tools for Independent Music Teachers (see the August/September 2004 AMT).

But one thing that really stands out in my mind is that MTNA lost three of its past presidents during the year: Willis Ducrest, Joseph Brye and Margaret Lorince.

Their dedication to music teaching was evident, as was their dedication to MTNA. The collective wisdom of these three former presidents has had an enormous impact on the association. Their invaluable leadership still is felt throughout MTNA.

I never had the honor of meeting Willis, but his reputation preceded him. He was a singer, choral arranger and conductor. I know from others that he was committed to music and music education. Willis was elected MTNA president in 1967 and again in 1969. He will always be remembered as a kind, thoughtful man who shaped the lives of many musicians across the country.

When I first came to MTNA, Joe was the archivist, having a recollection of MTNA's history to rival nearly anyone. He held many positions within MTNA on all levels. Prior to serving as president for the 1981-1983 biennium, Joe was the first president of the Northwest ...