KC here we come!(Dear Reader)

In its early days, Kansas City was a small town of settlers and missionaries providing a gateway to the West. Today, with nearly 1.8 million people residing in the metro area, Kansas City has grown to be the twenty-ninth largest city in the United States and is a thriving center of business, arts and tourism. What a tremendous site for the 2004 MTNA National Conference!

Each person attending a national conference has his or her own reasons for attending. Pedagogical sessions, outstanding concerts, exhibits to see the newest and latest the music industry has to offer and a venue to enjoy meeting new friends and renewing acquaintances are the most popular masons. Whatever your reason for attending, I am sure you will not be disappointed.

The conference committee has assembled a fabulous program of presenters. The variety of topics will offer something for everyone. Let me highlight a few conference offerings. As in previous years, this year's pre-conference events will include Pedagogy Saturday and Professional Studio Saturday. If you are looking for technology sessions, you will be delighted to know that technology sessions geared toward the beginning and intermediate users will be held throughout the conference and are being presented in cooperation with the International Association of Electronic Keyboard Manufacturers. This year no additional fee is required to attend these sessions.

Numerous sessions by outstanding presenters are sure to stimulate your thinking and revitalize your teaching. Topics ranging from music therapy; the mind/body connection, euthythmics, improvisation, chamber music and arts advocacy will be of interest to all musicians. Master dames, lecture recitals and performances will ...