Purpose:

The California Plan (Cal Plan) is a project of the Music Teachers' Association of California. Through its curriculum it establishes a definite minimum standard of knowledge for the teaching of music. The full Cal Plan curriculum is designed for teachers with limited experience who do not have enough points to become Provisional or Active members of MTAC. It offers a guide to greater understanding of music and its related arts, an incentive to explore new areas pertinent to the interest of the individual teacher and an opportunity to strengthen professional skills. The Association formally recognizes the achievement of these goals by awarding the California Plan certificate during the annual State Convention.

Eligibility:

• Teachers who wish to become MTAC members are eligible to enroll in this three year self-study program. Each Cal Plan Member is sponsored by an MTAC branch.
• Provisional members wishing to qualify for Active membership may take the full Cal Plan curriculum or take only the courses that they need for active membership.
• Active Members who wish to extend their experiences and education are also encouraged to enroll.

Curriculum:

• The Cal Plan curriculum consists of study in six academic subject areas and a program of vocational experience for teachers and their students.

Academic Subject Areas

• Theory
• Music Fundamentals and Ear Training (Musicianship)
• Harmonic Practices of the 18th and 19th Centuries
• Form and Analysis
• History
• Music History and Representative Literature
• Contemporary Music
• Pedagogy

Vocational Experience

• Teacher (private study, performance, approved workshops and State Conventions)
• Students of teacher (student performance/evaluation). Two or more of a Cal Plan Member's students must participate in Certificate of Merit and remain in Path A evaluations for two consecutive years.

The California Plan Handbook describes the program in detail and is available from the MTAC State Office.

For more information, contact:

• Cal Plan Chair,