High School ‘Best Community For Music Education' ... Again

How about a standing ovation for the music program? 

It was, for the third time, named a 'Best Community For Music Education' by the NAMM Foundation, a non-profit organization with the mission of advancing active participation in music making.

In all, 176 communities out of 237 that submitted surveys were recognized, including 166 school districts and 10 schools — including SMFHS. The announcement comes in anticipation of NAMM’s National Wanna Play Music Week, (May 7-13) a week long promotion designed to encourage people of all ages and skill levels to experience the proven benefits and fun of playing music.

Brian Monroe, high school band director, said he was "proud that the music department has once again been nationally recognized as a outstanding school for music education. Despite budget and staffing cuts, the dedicated teachers in our department have continued to keep the program strong."

Music staff at the high school includes: Monroe, Greg Newman, Sandra Sandman, Fran Hamilton and Jennifer Rahde. In addition to teaching classes at SMFHS, they also teach classes at other district buildings including, , , and . 

The school received this award in 2009 and last year in 2011. 

"We are very proud to say we have a strong program with great community support. We have been also fortunate to have teachers who truly passionate about music education and kids," he said. "We have also received statewide and national recognition during this year."

The Kimpton band was invited to perform at the in December and the High School Wind Ensemble was selected to perform at the Ohio Music Education Association Profession Development Convention in February. Most recently, the marching band performed in the . 

"It's great, but we take our strength in music for granted by not using it ... we could definitely make more of what we have," said Junior Allison Cirner, who plays baritone.

Upcoming Performances

• this weekend
• The on April 28
• The All City Orchestra Concert on May 7
• The High School Choir Concert on May 8
• The Spring Band Concert on May 9

All concerts are at 7 p.m.  All concerts are FREE.