Over the years, the program has morphed and changed – Theodore Presser initially built and began a home for retired music teachers that eventually led to a program that provides stipends that supports several music teachers around the country (you can read more about the program’s evolution here). Of the many hundreds of music teachers who have received support, one current recipient* spoke to staff about her career and what the support means to her.
What is your background and how did you become involved in music?
I began playing keyboard at the age of five, and soon afterwards started piano lessons with the best teacher in my hometown. I was lucky to have a mother who was a singer, and very conscientious of music and the importance of music in someone’s life.
I started voice lessons at 15 when they became available. I majored in piano and voice while pursuing my undergraduate degree, and then went to graduate school at Wichita State for voice. Since then, I’ve conducted private lessons for both piano and voice students.
My whole life has been music.
How did you learn about the Foundation and the Assistance to Music Teachers program? How is the support received affected you?
I saw it in a magazine, and after speaking with Mariel (Frank, the then Executive Director), applied.
It can be difficult for music teachers to make a living. The support received from The Presser Foundation has allowed me to do what I love, and I’m so grateful for that. I couldn’t live without it.
You use the stipend as a “scholarship fund” to support students who can’t afford lessons – how did you come up with that idea? What does that mean to you to provide those students with lessons? What does it mean for the students?
I saw how hard it was for my mother to pay for music lessons. If I can pay my bills, then I want to find other ways to contribute and spread the love of music that I have.
I have four “scholarship” students now, and they are truly an inspiration. They regularly share with me what it means to receive free lessons and how much they appreciate it. I believe that it’s important to not only provide these lessons, but to advocate for these students by convincing their families that these lessons are worthwhile. My students in general keep me young, and I love staying in touch with them as they move throughout their lives. It gives me great pride that many of them have gone “on tour” and demonstrated their musical abilities to many audiences, where they have these experiences that they’ll never forget.
Can you talk about your relationship with Staff of the Foundation and their role in facilitating your connection to the Foundation?
The staff is amazing. The Executive Director, Teresa, is always open and helpful, and I’m grateful to be able to share issues and successes with her. She’s so positive and kind and serves as a great representation of The Presser Foundation and its mission to do good.
The Foundation’s Board has also been so kind from the beginning of providing this Award, and I’m so thankful for them and their work.
How do you think the legacy of Theodore Presser – a music educator before he became a music publisher – lives on through the Assistance program?
Theodore Presser and his legacy have touched my heart and inspire me every day. His contributions have made such a difference for myself and my students, who are going out in the world performing and presenting music, as well as teaching others.
In my own life, I wouldn’t have been able to live with dignity and spread the joy of music without Mr. Presser and his foundation. The support means everything to me.
*We have omitted her name to protect her privacy.
