391: Meet Brian Shepard, New CEO of MTNA

The TopCast: The Official Music Teachers' Podcast

Music is not just a profession; it's a calling, a lifetime of passion and dedication. In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Brian Shepard, the newly appointed CEO of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA). With a musical and professional journey that mirrors this passion, Brian shares his early experiences with piano and voice, his swift rise within MTNA, and his transformative vision for the organization’s future. Outside MTNA, Brian enriches the music community through various leadership roles and continues to touch lives as a musician. Join us as Brian reveals how he plans to ensure that MTNA’s 150-year legacy remains vibrant and relevant in the 21st century.

• Brian shared a brief overview of his musical background, from studying violin to piano and voice.
• He talks about his roles at MTNA and his quick transition from working in retail to becoming Director of Marketing and Public Relations.
• His journey to becoming the CEO of MTNA and his responsibilities in this role.
• Insight into Brian's current musical activities, including community concerts.
• Overview of MTNA's mission and its focus on public awareness and support for music teachers.
• The decline of music programs in schools and MTNA's role in advocating for music education.
• Explanation of MTNA's structure, including state affiliates and local associations.
• Details about MTNA's annual conference and its significance.
• The new all-virtual conference, Tempo, aimed at creating greater access for teachers.
• Brian outlines his vision for MTNA, focusing on community development, cutting-edge programming, increasing access, and improving infrastructure.
• Increasing diversity and accessibility to attract teachers of other instruments.
• Importance of creating a welcoming community and support system for all music teachers.
• Details about the upcoming MTNA national conference in Minneapolis and the TEMPO virtual conference in April.

Links Mentioned

• Brian Shepard LinkedIn Page
• Brian Shepard Facebook Page
• Brian Shepard Instagram Page
• Music Teachers National Association Website
• Music Teachers National Facebook Page

Today’s Guest

Brian Shepard is Chief Executive Officer of Music Teachers National Association. Brian first began his career at MTNA in 2003 as the Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

In addition to his work at MTNA, Brian volunteers on several other nonprofit boards and committees. From 2009 to the present, Brian has served in multiple leadership roles with the American Classical Music Hall of Fame. He currently serves the Hall of Fame as Board President. Since 2013, he has been a member of the CCMpower Board at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Previously, Brian has served on the Cincinnati Opera Sales and Marketing Committee and was President of the Middletown Music Club.

Brian is also an accomplished musician who performs frequently for church and community programs as a pianist, vocal soloist and choral conductor. A graduate of Miami University of Ohio, Brian holds degrees in marketing and music education. He was named an MTNA FOUNDATION Fellow in 2010.

Today’s Sponsor

ABRSM is The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and a global music education charity. At the heart of everything we do is our belief that music enriches lives. Building on our heritage, we offer face-to-face and digital exams, sheet music, recordings, apps and courses for students and teachers across the world.

In partnership with four Royal Schools of Music, we carry on a long legacy of musical excellence. More than an awarding organisation, we support learners from the first note they play and empower teachers who help build musical skills and encourage progress around the world.

As a charity, we use all of the surpluses we generate to make significant donations towards music education initiatives and to develop our support for learners and teachers around the world. We advocate for music and its many forms, playing our part to ensure the future of music education and its place in society. Together with our partners, our teachers and others around the world, we’ve been nurturing the future of music since 1889 — to help people start or continue their journey

Find Out More about ABRSM.

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