This year, for the second time ever, the Recording Academy and Grammy Foundation recognized a music educator for outstanding contribution to music in the classroom. This year’s recipient is band director Jared Cassedy from Windham High School in Windham, New Hampshire.

In watching the CBS interview I was first tickled to see SmartMusic projected on the wall of Mr. Cassedy’s band room, but was soon caught up in the drama of the well-executed piece, and reminded, yet again, of the awesome influence a great teacher can provide. I especially liked the humility with which Mr. Cassedy responded to the question of how he felt about being nominated for a Grammy:

“I was taken aback. It’s a wonderful recognition. I see it more as a recognition of the students.”

On behalf of everyone at MakeMusic, I’d like to extend our congratulations and thanks to Mr. Cassedy as well as the other finalists recognized here.