History of OMTA
In 1913 the Superintendent of Oregon Public Education began the process of establishing music in the public schools and the accreditation of teachers for that purpose. It soon became apparent that some organization was needed, so in 1915, with the cooperation of the Musicians Club of Portland, delegates from throughout the state drew up the incorporation papers for the Oregon State Music Teachers Association.
John Claire Monteith was elected president at the first annual Conference, November 30, 1916. A year later the name was shortened to the Oregon Music Teachers Association.
In 1927 the University of Oregon was asked to draw up standards for teacher accreditation, and the first Syllabus Bulletins began in 1928. A major revision in 1955 defined Syllabus as "a program of study for teachers of music to be used with pupils studying music outside of school for high school credit." Unfortunately, the Attorney General of Oregon ruled in 1959 that "such certification (of teachers) while it is not illegal was extra legal and outside the law." After this ruling, OMTA continued to expand its Syllabus program and to develop its own merit plan of certification. OMTA Certification as we know it today was put into operation in 1963.
Through the years many other projects have been undertaken by the organization. During the Depression a Sickness and Distress Fund was established to help members. Later, these funds were converted for use in providing student scholarships. Other funds have been contributed and there are now 14 scholarships available each Year. In 1931 a plan was originated to give a certificate of merit to students for continuous study. Between 1981 and 1986 Nellie Tholen contributed $50,000 to OMTA, with interest from the amount to be used for a Teacher Improvement Fund. In 1986 OMTA received a library of 20th century music, known as the Stanley Butler Contemporary Collection, which is available for use by OMTA members. A Junior Bach Festival, a Chamber Music Classical Festival and Ensemble Festival have joined the OMTA Syllabus/Auditions program, giving students added opportunities for performance and evaluation.
The official publication of OMTA is Music News which is published five times each year. Annual Conferences are well attended and provide members an opportunity for comradeship and continued growth. OMTA is divided into fourteen districts which hold local meetings, workshops and recitals to benefit members, their students and their communities.
In 1950 OMTA affiliated with Music Teachers National Association and has since benefited through participation in its various programs for teachers and students, such as group insurance, national certification, the Independent Music Teachers' Forum, national courses of study, the American Music Teacher publication, student auditions, the student composition contest, and the Composer of the Year commissioning program.
In 1976, the History Books of OMTA were placed in the Oregon Historical Society building on Park Avenue in Portland. Members may arrange to see them by appointment. Also on file are memory books from some OMTA districts.
In 1997, OMTA was classified a non-profit, 501(c)(3), corporation.
