A collective of music educators fostering the highest levels of artistry and well-being amongst East Texas music students.

MEET OUR LEADERSHIP

Mrs. Suzanne Solum, President

Suzanne studied music at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, and at Christ for the Nations in Dallas, TX. Her continuing education includes online courses from Berklee School of Music earning a Professional Certificate in advanced rhythm, theory, composition, Finale, CuBase Pro, and other Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). Her passion for her students is to equip them to play, read, create, and arrange the music that motivates them. Her private studio, Sunshine Piano Studio and Sunrise Music, is located in Combine, TX, with students hailing from Combine, Crandall, Kaufman, Forney, and Terrell.

Dr. Kaden Larson, Vice President

Kaden Larson began playing piano at age three as a therapeutic activity to help fight his Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. What began as a trial soon became a triumph and a calling. An avid solo recitalist and collaborative pianist, Larson is also a founding member of the Ensign Piano Quartet and the consonari ensemble project. Larson recently released his first CD, Phantasium, on the KNS Classical label. As a Professor of Piano & Music at Tyler Junior College, Larson enjoys working with students of all ages and abilities. Visit kadenlarsonpiano.com for bookings, concert schedule, and more.

Prof. Stephanie Johnson, Treasurer

Stephanie Johnson is currently a Professor of Music at Tyler Junior College and enjoys teaching bright minds in the classroom and in the studio. Stephanie Johnson's Piano Studio has been in operation for over twenty-five years. Mrs. Johnson has actively served as an active member of ETMTA where she has held many offices including that of President, Treasurer, and Grant Writer. Mrs. Johnson graduated from East Texas Baptist University with a degree in All-Level Music Education, and has a Master of Arts degree from the University of Texas at Tyler with an emphasis in piano pedagogy. Married to Samuel Johnson, guitar player, aviation specialist, and business partner, they reside in Tyler and are parents to two musical children who are living and active case studies in music education.

Mrs. Vanessa Chisler, Secretary

Vanessa Chisler was born and raised in Daingerfield, Texas, where she began piano study at the age of 8. She earned an Associate of Arts degree from Tyler Junior College and a Bachelors of Arts in Music degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. She also holds a Texas State Educator Certificate for All Level Music. An active member of ETMTA since 2006, Vanessa has held many positions including Librarian, Publicity Chair, Achievement Auditions Chair, Student Affiliate/Theory Chair, Website co-chair/Historian, Fall Festival Chair, Vice President and President. Vanessa has also served as an ensemble director and delegate for the TMTA convention. Vanessa maintains a home studio in Lindale offering lessons for ages 5 to adult which include, but are not limited to, music theory, functional skills (sight- reading, harmonization, etc), repertoire, and technique. She also offers online lessons and teaches students as far away as Alaska. In addition to teaching, Vanessa enjoys adjudicating for local festivals and events. Vanessa lives in Lindale with her husband Jeff, son Austin, and dogs.

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