2017: Debbie Murphy

Gwinnett County Music Teachers Association (GCMTA) is proud to announce its 2017 Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Debbie Murphy. Debbie is awarded this distinction because of her excellence in teaching and professional service to the organization. A member of GCMTA for nearly twenty years, she has served as president (2001-2003), Music Day (formally November Festival) chair (1998-1999), MTNA Foundation chair (2003-2005), and currently holds the position of Theory chair.  Debbie also served on the board of Georgia Music Teachers Association as MTNA Foundation Chair, Publicity Chair, and Arts Awareness and Advocacy Chair.

Mrs. Murphy, who gives private instruction in both piano and voice,  motivates her students to a high level of achievement. Through careful teaching and encouragement, her students excel in various local events and competitions. Mrs. Murphy’s vocal students are often winners at Georgia Music Teachers Association local, regional and even state auditions, frequently given the distinction of Outstanding Performer. Likewise, her students are regular winners in Music Day, Jr./Sr. Scholarship and Federated Festival. Additionally, Debbie has students who have gone on to major in music and become professional musicians.

Although having received a music degree from the University of South Carolina in Piano and minor in Voice, her strong commitment to professional development led her to go back to college as an adult and achieve a Bachelor of Music with emphasis in Voice and Accompanying from Brenau University in 2011. Active in her community, Debbie serves as Music Director for Rock Springs United Methodist Church and accompanist for Glenn C. Jones Middle School choirs.

Mrs. Murphy gives 100% in everything she commits to do. An exemplary teacher in so many areas – quality teaching, loyal service to professional associations at local & state levels, dedication to professional development and service to the community – she is the epitome of a GCMTA Teacher of the Year!