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Music teacher in running for Grammy

Andrew Bennett

Esteemed Fredonia music teacher Andrew Bennett has been recognized as a semi-finalist for the 2020 Grammy Music Educator Award. He is one of only 25 semi-finalists in the nation being considered for this award.

The award recognizes educators who have made lasting contributions to the field of music education and who demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of growing and maintaining strong music education programs in our nation’s schools.

“It is an honor to have made it this far in the process and quite humbling,” Bennett said. “We have a vibrant music program here at Fredonia, and I am thrilled that this recognition will highlight the achievements of our student musicians and community. Nothing we accomplish would be possible without them.”

Fredonia Superintendent Jeffrey Sortisio said, “Fredonia’s music program is really second to none. Our students excel in band, chorus, orchestra and various ensembles. Ours is truly an inclusive program that supports student success in all areas. This does not happen without high quality leadership and dedication.”

“Mr. Bennett leads this department with dignity and aplomb,” Sortisio conctinued. “To his credit, and to the benefit of our entire district, Mr. Bennett shares his fantastic leadership traits in many areas outside of the music department. While Andy is being justly recognized for his work as a Music Educator, I would be remiss if I did not recognize his work as an Educational Leader.”

More than 3,300 initial nominations from around the country were submitted, and only 189 teachers were selected this year as quarterfinalists. After reviewing quarterfinalist video essays including teaching samples, community feedback, student interviews, examples of student and professional achievement, and more, the Grammy foundation selected 25 semi-finalists. In December, 10 finalists will be selected from these semi-finalists.

Each year, one recipient is selected from the 10 finalists and recognized for their remarkable impact on students’ lives. The seventh-annual honoree will be flown to Los Angeles to attend the 62nd Annual GRAMMY Awards® and a range of GRAMMY Week events. The nine additional finalists will receive a $1,000 honorarium, and the schools of all 10 finalists will receive matching grants. The remaining 15 semifinalists will receive a $500 honorarium with matching school grants.

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