Professional Development
Professional development is crucial for music teachers to stay current with best practices, enhance their skills, and improve student learning outcomes, ultimately leading to more effective and engaging music education.
The field of music education is constantly evolving, with new research, teaching methodologies, and technologies emerging regularly. Professional development ensures that music teachers are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to effectively teach music. MTFL hosts guest speakers who are leaders in the field of music education.
By networking and collaborating, you are afforded the chance to connect with other educators, share ideas, and collaborate on projects, fostering a sense of community and support.
2025-26
Meetings and Professional Development
All Business Meetings begin at 9:45am-10:30am
Fellowship and Professional Development:10:30am- 12:00pm
September 9, 2026
The Music Loft
585 Grove St Suite 310 Herndon, VA 20170
MARKETING YOUR STUDIO
Welcome to a new year with MTFL. We will kick off our members meeting by meeting new members and learning about marketing your studio with Laura Poindexter from QueenB Creative digital marketing firm. Laura is an accomplished and results-driven digital marketing strategist.
October 14, 2026
The Music Loft
585 Grove St., Suite 310 Herndon, VA 20170
CHAMBER MUSIC EVENT PLANNING
This meeting will be a brainstorming session as to how to put together our 2027-28 big chamber event! We will need all hands (and ideas) for this important planning meeting.
November 11, 2026
The Music Loft
585 Grove St., Suite 310 Herndon, VA 20170
BOOK DISCUSSION
Have you read a book that transformed the way you teach or has made an impact in your life?
December 9, 2026
Brunch @ TBD
HOLIDAY BRUCH
A long time holiday tradition, we will have a holiday brunch from 10am-12pm. Please bring something to share.
January 14, 2027
The Music Loft
585 Grove St, Herndon, VA 20170
STUDIO ORGANIZATION AND COMMUNICATION
WITH PARENTS
In this session, teachers will learn practical strategies for organizing their music studios to run efficiently and professionally. We will explore clear, consistent communication techniques that build trust with parents, reduce misunderstandings, and set strong expectations from the start. Participants will leave with tools to streamline scheduling, policies, and messaging, creating a more positive and sustainable teaching environment.
February 10, 2027
The Music Loft
585 Grove St, Herndon, VA 20170
HOW TO TEACH THE CIRCLE OF 5TH'S
Member, Claudia Libero will be presenting her surefire way to help students master the circle of 5ths and teacher strategies. The presentation will include:
review keys only Major or only minor at all levels
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different circle piece of paper every year for filling in key signatures in treble or bass clef, or learning letters.
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different emphasis on theory based on level, from pre-reading to advanced.
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learn to modulate.
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learn palindrome sentence for sharps and flats.
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off the bench games.
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music examples for tonic/dominant cadences, relative Major/minor keys, parallel Major/minor.
March 10, 2027
The Music Loft
585 Grove St., Suite 310 Herndon, VA 20170
THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
Marian Goldberg is an STAT, AmSAT Certified Alexander Technique teacher. This 100 year old technique is a method for improving posture and movement by releasing unnecessary muscular tension. Images of the technique typically focus on head-neck-spine alignment and "constructive rest" positions.
April 14, 2027
No meeting
May 12, 2027
LAST MEETING AND LUNCHEON
It's a wrap! MTFL president will share the organization's successes and give feedback of our events. Location TBD
