Mission Statement 

MTNA is dedicated to encouraging the creation of new works by American composers and annually assists its affiliated state associations in the generation and performance of new music through the national composers commissioning program. A newly commissioned composition receives its premiere performance at the conference of the state MTA that commissions the work.  

Statement of Philosophy  

To further promote and recognize outstanding contributions to American music, MTNA annually has its state affiliates submit commissioned compositions to a panel of recognized composers for selection of the MTNA-Shepherd Distinguished Composer of the Year. The new work of the selected composer is presented in a performance  at the MTNA national conference, and the composer is proclaimed the MTNA-Shepherd Distinguished Composer of the Year. The selected composer receives a $3,000 award, funded by Sylvia Shepherd, MTNA member from California.

Program Chair
Ann Rivers Witherspoon, 9210 Larston, Houston, TX 77055-6418; (713) 464-7110; annwspoon@comcast.net