October 01, 2019
Two School of Music alumni named as Grammy Music Educator Award finalists
Scott Sheehan ('12 M.M.E.) and Craig Snyder ('91 B.S. Mu. Ed.) have been named as finalists for the 2019 Grammy Music Educator Award.
Each year, the Recording Academy and the Grammy Museum partner to select the finalists. This year, the 10 finalists were selected from just more than 2,800 initial nominations with all 50 states being represented.
Sheehan is the director of bands and the music department chairperson at the Hollidaysburg Area Senior High School in Hollidaysburg, Pa. He received the Outstanding Music Educator Award from the College of Arts and Architecture's School of Music in 2016.
"I am extremely honored and humbled to receive this recognition. I am very blessed to work with amazing students and colleagues and have friends and family who support me with all that I do," Sheehan said. "I believe that music changes lives for the better, and I am very committed to making sure all children have access to a quality music education that is relevant and meaningful."
Snyder is the director of bands and the music department coordinator at Penncrest High School in Garnet Valley, Pa., where he teaches music theory and music technology.
"When I was told that I had made the finals, I responded by saying 'are you sure?' There are so many incredible music educators out there performing miracles every day and I still don't think it has sunk in," Snyder said. "I'm not one who is in need of the spotlight or recognition, and I don't seek out these opportunities, but a former student believed in me and nominated me and I have taken part in this process out of respect and appreciation for her. The personal relationships with my students that I am fortunate to enjoy will always be the most rewarding and important aspect of my teaching."
The winner will be selected from the ten finalists and in addition to the $10,000 prize, will be flown to Los Angeles to attend the 61st Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 10, 2019. The remaining finalists will receive a $1,000 prize, and the schools of all the finalists will receive matching grants made possible by the Ford Motor Company Fund.
