"Celebrating the Best: Meet the 10 Finalists for the 2025 GRAMMY Music Educator Award"
10 Amazing Music Teachers Honored as Finalists for the 2025 GRAMMY Music Educator Award
Music has the power to change lives, and the GRAMMY Museum and the Recording Academy are celebrating the teachers who make it all possible. Each year, the Music Educator Award recognizes outstanding teachers who go above and beyond to inspire their students through music.
This year, more than 2,400 educators from 49 states were nominated, and now, the top 10 finalists have been announced! These incredible teachers are shaping the future of music, one student at a time.
Meet the Finalists
These ten educators come from different backgrounds, but they all share a passion for music and a deep commitment to their students.
Justin Antos (Illinois) – A high school teacher known for his creative approach to music education.
Stephen Blanco (Nevada) – A champion for inclusivity and diversity in music.
Ethan Chessin (Washington) – A high-energy teacher who brings fresh ideas into the classroom.
J.D. Frizzell (Tennessee) – A director whose students have won national music competitions.
Bernie Hendricks, Jr. (Florida) – A dedicated mentor who builds strong, lasting music programs.
Jennifer Jimenez (Florida) – A passionate educator who fights for music education in schools.
Coty Raven Morris (Oregon) – A university professor advocating for greater representation in the arts.
Matthew Shephard (Michigan) – A teacher who has transformed his school's music program.
Katie Silcott (Ohio) – A middle school teacher inspiring the next generation of musicians.
Adrian L. Maclin (Tennessee) – A standout educator leading the way in music education.
And the Winner Is…
Out of these outstanding finalists, Adrian L. Maclin from Cordova High School in Memphis, Tennessee has been named the 2025 Music Educator Award winner!
Maclin’s impact goes beyond the classroom—his dedication to his students and the music community has earned him this prestigious honor. As the winner, he will receive a $10,000 award, and his school will also receive a $10,000 grant to support its music program.
The nine remaining finalists won’t go home empty-handed either! Each of them will receive a $1,000 award, plus an additional $1,000 grant for their schools.
Why This Award Matters
Music education is more than just learning to play an instrument—it builds confidence, creativity, and teamwork. Unfortunately, many music programs face funding challenges, and teachers often have to fight to keep their programs alive.
That’s why the Music Educator Award is so important. It highlights the teachers who are making a real difference, ensuring that students have access to quality music education no matter the obstacles.
This program is made possible by The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, along with support from organizations like the American Choral Directors Association, National Association for Music Education, NAMM Foundation, and National Education Association.
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