Celebrating certification: why should a music teacher become a nationally certified teacher of music?

"MTNA's Professional Certification Program provides a visible recognition of achievement that unites us in our ultimate task of music education, whether we perform and teach in collegiate settings or in the' extremely important field of pre-college experience."

--Cheryl Coker, voice

Cheryl Coker is an assistant professor of music and voice at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi. She completed a D.M.A. in vocal performance at the University of Minnesota in 2001, studying with Clifton Ware, and maintains an active performing and teaching schedule.

"The MTNA Certification Program provides national recognition for promoting professional competence in the music teaching profession. Certification enhances public identification, prestige and opportunities for professional growth. A Certified Music Teacher Certificate is an endorsement that would benefit independent teachers, as well as teachers employed by institutions."

--Jane Dillard, voice

Jane Dillard received B.S. and M.A. degrees from East Carolina University, with postgraduate study at the Music Hochschule in Munich, Germany and New York University. While assistant professor at the University of South Florida, she also coached with Thanos Mellos and the famous Greek mezzo soprano, Elena Nickolaidi. President-elect of the National Association of Teachers of Singing, Jane has concertized and sang with orchestras in Europe and in the United States.

"The uniform standard of National Certification is particularly important today, when many of our students are part of a mobile society. Knowing what to expect in a new city gives our students a unequalled level of confidence in us"