Since 1996, the Columbus Symphony has been rewarding special individuals. These are individuals who go above in beyond in their efforts in music education. This could include any level of education- from community bands to elementary school choirs. One reward is given to each of the following categories: elementary, secondary, and community education. These are musicians and teachers who have made a difference in their community through their efforts to educate.
The Orchestra bestows upon these individuals their Music Educator Award. The award is a grant worth $2,500, to be used as they see fit for the purpose of music education. This could include outreach purposes, buying or fixing of instruments, and many other things.
This year’s winners are Matthew Parker, Stephanie K. Smith, and Jeffery W. Schneider. Parker is the recipient of the Elementary Education award. He is a band and choir teacher at Johnnycake Corners Elementary School in the Olentangy School District.
With a Masters of Music from Capital University, Parker directs over 200 students in his elementary school choirs alone, and also is a director for the Columbus Children’s Choir. He still performs in chorale as well. His teaching style is based around the Kodaly method, a teaching philosophy developed in the mid-twentieth century that focuses on gradual progression from easy to harder depending on the child’s capabilities, and with heavy emphasis on learning through listening.
Stephanie K. Smith will receive the Secondary Education portion of the award. After completing her Masters of Music Education from Capital University, she began a career in education that has lasted 25 years.
Currently the Director of Instrumental Music at Teays Valley High School, she has worked with the marching and concert bands and wind ensemble. She serves on the OMEA Adjucated Events Committee, specializing in marching band, and performs flugel horn on the side for the Brass Band of Columbus.
Jeffery W. Schneider is the final recipient, representing the Community Volunteer category. A four-year member of The Best Damn Band in the Land, Schneider earned his Masters of Music Education from Vander Cook College of Music.
After 28 years as Band Director for Bexley City Schools, he retired and moved his attention to volunteering as the Director of the Ohio State School for the Blind’s marching band. While he still works with OSSB, he also plays in the Grove City Community Winds, and has won numerous awards for his time as a teacher.
