What COMTEP is
The New York State Council of Music Teacher Education Programs represents 22 four year college and university programs and affiliated community colleges designed to prepare students for certification to teach music in the public and private schools of New York State. Founded in 1965, member institutions have worked with the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA), the professional association for in-service music teachers, and with other agencies to help improve the quality of music teacher education programs and to serve both pre-service and in-service music teachers through the presentation of workshops, special conferences and seminars, and study sessions. The organization works closely with the State Education Department on certification issues and in the development of curricular materials and inservice opportunities.