NATS Mentoring Initiatives
- NATS National Mentoring Collaborative (NNMC)
- NATS Mentoring for Composers
- NATS Intern Program
- Conference Connections
NATS is dedicated to fostering growth through mentoring at the chapter, region, and national levels. These programs connect members, encourage collaboration, and support continued learning in the art of teaching voice.
Explore the mentoring options below to find the best fit for your needs — or share your own mentoring opportunity with us. If you have additional questions or ideas, please reach out to the Vice President of Outreach.
Mentoring Options Overview
NATS National Mentoring Collaborative
The NATS National Mentoring Collaborative (NNMC) aims to foster learning for all teachers by offering a collaborative approach to mentoring. Those interested in being mentored are able to choose from a list mentors to aid in developing their own teaching pedagogy. The program also includes collaborative piano. Learn more
NATS Mentoring Program for Composers
This is a unique opportunity for emerging and early-career art song composers that encourages the composition and performance of new works. Learn more
NATS Intern Program
The NATS Intern Program is a preeminent offering for early-career voice teachers (both academic and independent) and collaborative pianists. Within an intensive format designed to promote the dynamic exchange of ideas and techniques, the goal is to improve substantially the studio teaching skills of voice interns and the coaching skills of collaborative piano interns. Learn more
Conference Connections
Conference Connections most recently occurred during the NATS 58th National Conference in 2024 and the next opportunity will be at the 2026 national conference. The name captures the essence of the program, to facilitate connections between NATS members during the biennial national conference. This free program highlights the generous camaraderie of the NATS membership.
Elizabeth Ann Benson has directed the program since 2020, following its establishment as "Mentoring Over Coffee" by Ian Howell in 2018. In 2022, 46 NATS members participated as mentors, and 30 participated as mentees, resulting in more than 100 mentoring connections. The mentoring partners sat down together to chat for an hour during the conference, fostering new connections within NATS.
Responses to a follow-up survey suggest a high level of satisfaction with this program.
“This program is a great example of practicing our mission, vision, and values within NATS,” Benson says. The connections made through mentoring bolster the NATS Diversity and Inclusion statement, “to be a welcoming and supportive community of members and students who celebrate the unique identities, varied backgrounds, and experiences of all individuals.”
Registered conference attendees receive a link to register to participate in “Conference Connections” in their conference registration confirmation email, and additional invitations to participate appear in Intermezzo. Questions may be directed to Elizabeth Benson.
