Music Educator Awards Presented During Campus Concerts

For the first time, SUNY Buffalo State’s Music Department is presenting music educator awards to outstanding teachers in the community.

"Because we collaborate so much with area music teachers—from our teachers candidates working in their classrooms to hosting their students in workshops on campus—we wanted to recognize the contributions these teachers have made,” said Emily Boyce, associate professor and interim chair of the Music Department. "Anyone on the music faculty could nominate a teacher, and the entire music faculty chose the winners."

Award recipients are Karen Saxon (at left) of the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts for vocal instruction; Phil Aguglia (center) of Kenmore East High School for instrumental instruction; and Heather Holden (at right) of Oliver Wendell Holmes Elementary for classroom music instruction.

"We have performed with these teachers in local ensembles, and they have mentored our students," Boyce said. "They have supported our music education program since its inception 15 years ago. We have developed long-term relationships and want the relationships to continue."

The music educators award will become an annual tradition, Boyce said.

Members of the Music Department will present Holden and Saxon with their award plaques during the Buffalo State Philharmonia and Choral Concert on April 29, and Phil Aguglia will receive his award during the Jazz Ensemble concert on May 1. Both concerts will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall.