1921-2026: A Legacy of Musical Excellence
Celebrating 105 Years of the El Paso Music Teachers Association
Established in September 1921, the El Paso Music Teachers Association (EPMTA) was founded and organized under the leadership of Mary Goodbar Morgan, whose vision brought together the music teachers of El Paso in a spirit of professional cooperation, musical excellence, and service to the community.
From its beginning, EPMTA welcomed teachers representing a variety of musical disciplines, united by a common purpose: to encourage excellence in music education, support one another professionally, and inspire students through the study and performance of music.
Throughout its history, the Association has sponsored festivals, auditions, recitals, workshops, scholarships, and educational opportunities that have enriched the lives of teachers, students, and families across the Borderland.
As EPMTA celebrates 105 years, it honors not only Mary Morgan and its earliest members but also the many teachers, officers, volunteers, students, and families who have carried the Association forward through changing times. Today, EPMTA continues to build upon that legacy, preserving the traditions of the past while inspiring future generations of music teachers and students.
Celebrating Our 2027 Honorees
Karol Garmon – 2027 Fellow
EPMTA congratulates Karol Garmon, who has been selected by the Texas Music Teachers Association to represent the state of Texas as a 2027 Fellow. She will be recognized at the Music Teachers National Association National Conference Gala and will receive her certificate and pin. Her name will also appear on a plaque at MTNA National Headquarters.
Enrique Ponce – 2027 TMTA Composer of the Year
EPMTA is proud to announce that its nomination of Enrique Ponce was selected as the 2027 Composer of the Year for the Texas Music Teachers Association. He will present his commissioned work at the 2027 TMTA state convention in Dallas.
Enrique is an award-winning composer whose music has been featured in film and video game projects in the United States and abroad. He holds a Master of Music degree in Scoring for Film, Television, and Video Games from Berklee College of Music in Valencia, Spain. His honors include Best Original Score at the Los Angeles CineFest for the animated short Twilight Prophecy (2017).
Be Part of EPMTA’s Next Chapter
For 105 years, EPMTA has connected our community with music education. Let us help you find an EPMTA teacher.