The PMTA Early-Career Fellowship is a unique opportunity for private music teachers in their first 5 years of teaching. While providing financial startup support, this one-year program includes mentorship placement with an experienced teacher and provides valuable networking and professional development experiences. Those selected for this program will be awarded:

• $1,000 (two $500 payments, each occurring at the beginning and end of the fellowship term)
• National and State dues reimbursement for one year
• Reimbursement for up to two PMTA State Conferences*
  *Selectees are required to give a report at the state conference at the end of their fellowship term. Conference attendance at the beginning of the term is encouraged but not required.

Eligibility and Application Process

• Private music teacher in the state of PA, currently within the first five (5) years of teaching
• Current member of PMTA
• A resume and a recommendation letter will be required.
• Application open January 1, 2025 through March 15, 2025
• Applicants will be notified of the decision results by April 15th
• All first-time, eligible applicants will receive State Dues and Conference reimbursement!

Fellowship Mentees

• One-year fellowship term: Obligations must be completed within one year.
• Observe 4 or more music lessons taught by the Mentor Teacher
• Attend 2 local chapter meetings
• Assist in 1 local or state event
• Consultation with Mentor on pedagogy, lesson planning & studio management encouraged
• Attend PMTA State Conference at the end of the term to give a report. Conference
  attendance at the start of the term is encouraged but not required.
• Post-term: Submit form to give account of award money usage and provide feedback via this form

Fellowship Mentors

• Must have 10 or more years of private music teaching experience
• Provide Mentee with opportunities to observe 4 or more lessons
• Be available to discuss pedagogy, lesson planning and studio management with Mentee
• Optional: Mentee can assist with a studio event, such as a recital, group lesson or other
• Post-term: Submit form to confirm Mentee obligation fulfillment

Questions? Contact Mentorship Program Chair Miriam Shingle: pmta.mentorship@gmail.com
If you would like to be a Fellowship Mentor, please contact the Mentorship Program Chair. Mentors will receive full PMTA Conference reimbursement for each year of service!