ORMTA has an abundance of members who dedicate much time and passion to teaching their students, helping this organization, and volunteering in their communities. It is with this spirit that each ORMTA Branch recognizes these exceptional individuals on an annual basis with an Outstanding Contribution to Teaching Award.
Congratulations to Hamilton-Halton ORMTA’s 2026 OCTA winner, Diane Manojlovich.
Born and raised in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Diane Manojlovich eagerly anticipated piano lessons like her older sister. From the beginning, she was drawn to the instrument’s sound and structure. Studying with the late Beverly Jamieson through Grade 10, she developed discipline and a deep love of music. Early on, Diane recognized the connection between music, math, and science. With a naturally logical mind, she appreciated the patterns, precision, and problem-solving shared by musical study and scientific inquiry.
Diane earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg and began working in pharmaceuticals then industrial chemicals. After the birth of her first child, her former teacher encouraged Diane to teach a few piano students. That decision became life changing. Watching children who could not yet read walk confidently onstage, perform for family and friends, and take their first bow to warm applause profoundly moved her. Seeing their pride, she realized music was far more rewarding than chemicals.
She returned to university to complete a Bachelor of Music at McMaster University and made piano teaching her full-time profession. A psychology background further shaped her teaching approach, helping her understand students as individuals. Diane describes herself as a “house league” teacher, rather than a “rep” teacher, supporting students of all abilities. She believes music should be accessible to everyone as a source of lifelong joy.
One memorable example involved a frustrated young hockey player ready to quit piano. By introducing him to a simplified version of “Hockey Night in Canada,” Diane connected music to his passion, reigniting his enthusiasm. In her studio, students gain more than musical skills; they build confidence, discipline, attention to detail, resilience in accepting constructive criticism, and a strong sense of accomplishment.
Diane has been an active member of HH ORMTA since 2014, serving on the executive committee in roles including recital coordinator, treasurer, first class honours coordinator, vice president, president, and now past president.
A lifelong festival participant, she served for several years as coordinator of the Rotary Burlington Music Festival. When the Hamilton Kiwanis Music Festival folded, leaving no spring festival in the region, Diane co-founded the Hamilton Music Festival in 2016 with colleague Tom Oliver. Starting with just over 300 entries, the HMF has grown to more than 1,300. Known for its supportive atmosphere, the HMF offers performance opportunities, professional adjudication, scholarships, and advancement to provincial competition. Engaging over 100 volunteers annually, the Hamilton Music Festival stands as a vibrant and lasting contribution to the community Diane so passionately serves.
The following have received the OCTA award for the Hamilton-Halton Branch of ORMTA
2009 Dr. Joan Heels
2010 Shireen Moos
2011 Andrea Battista
2012 Linda Fletcher
2013 Leon Karan
2014 Sandra Brewer
2015 Phillip Corke
2016 Francine Regaudie-McIsaac
2017 Olga Tcherniak
2018 Jacqueline Huffman-Krisza (plus special award to Gregory Cross)
2019 Warren Nicholson
2020 Tom Oliver
2021 Nikki Loney
2022 Janice Beninger
2023 Diana Emery was honoured by our branch
2024 Catherine Richardson
2025 Dr. Christopher Foley
2026 Diane Manojlovich