Assistant Professor of Music Cherise Leiter has been honored by the Colorado State Music Teachers Association (CSMTA) for an original piece of music she composed.

"I was thrilled at the news," said Leiter, who has taught music theory and composition at Metro since 2000. "It's an incredible honor, a learning experience and a good opportunity to forward my composing career."

Leiter composed a few samples of music for the CSMTA and was awarded top honors from a pool of applicants. The association then commissioned her to write a piece of music to be premiered at its state conference in June 2004 and presented her with a monetary award. Leiter's composition will be automatically submitted to the Music Teachers National Association for a national competition.

Of the samples Leiter composed, the CSMTA judges mentioned particularly liking a piece called Trio Number 1; Frog. Leiter describes the composition as a "modern, but accessible" piece that features the flute, violin and cello. The piece was performed by Sonora, a group that includes Metro faculty member flutist Michelle Stanley.

Leiter, who has a master's degree in music from the University of Florida, is still working on the new composition to debut at the CSMTA conference next June, but says it will feature the classical guitar, alto flute and cello.

A music teacher since 1995, Leiter says she enjoys the balance that being both a teacher and a composer provides. "I like the challenge and stimulation of teaching, while composing allows me to explore my own voice," she said.

Leiter gets ideas for her music from many different places - moods, life, literature, even a squeaky belt in her car. During last year's blizzard a belt in her car got wet and made noise for weeks. "It was a catchy rhythm, I wrote it down and used it in the (competition) piece," she said.

The Colorado State Music Teachers Association is a group dedicated to fostering the advancement of music education in Colorado through relationships with schools and community organizations, in addition to advancing the standards of teaching and performing.