March 2023 - Julia Mortyakova
CMS Southern Chapter President Julia Mortyakova currently serves as Chair of the Mississippi University for Women’s Department of Music and was recently elected to the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) Commission on Accreditation. Julia also sustains an active career as a concert pianist and researcher, with research focuses that include applying existential philosophy of Jean-Paul Sartre to piano teaching and the life and music of Cécile Chaminade. She also leads the CMS Southern Chapter in her spare time!
I asked Julia a few questions about her experience as a member of the CMS Chapter Leadership, and I hope you enjoy learning more about her work with CMS!
Q: How did you begin your work with CMS, and what led you to run for the role of Chapter President?
A: I began my participation in CMS upon hearing about the organization from one of my faculty at the University of Miami, Dr. Dennis Kam. From the time I was a doctoral student I have participated, presented, performed, and attended almost every single one of the Southern Regional conferences and many other regional and national events.
I ran for president because I was nominated and wanted to serve an organization which has helped my professional growth over the past two decades. I also wanted to continue the legacy of the great previous leaders in the chapter, such as Dr. Kam.