TSD Again Named Best Community for Music Education

Troy School District Again Named Best Community for Music Education 2020

The Troy School District has been recognized as one the “Best Communities for Music Education 2020” in the United States by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM). It is the thirteenth consecutive year the TSD has received this prestigious honor, given to those districts that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and access to music education, according to NAMM.

The award recognizes the outstanding efforts of administrators, teachers, parents, students and community leaders who have made exemplary music education part of the curriculum. “Our program appeals to so many students in so many different ways,” said the district’s Instrumental Music Coordinator, Joe Havrilla. Support for the Troy School District’s music program starts at the top with Superintendent Dr. Rich Machesky and leaders across the district, recognizing the important role it plays in the lives of students at the middle and high school levels as well as at all twelve of our elementary schools.

Music education in Troy begins in kindergarten, with classes in all of the District’s elementary schools, and goes through High School. Band and Orchestra programs begin in the 5th grade, adding to the vocal music program, continuing through middle then high school. Students attend a variety of competitions and festivals each year, typically receiving top scores. This past year has been particularly exciting as the Troy High Symphonic Band as well as multiple middle and high school students performed and were recognized at the elite Michigan Music Conference (MMC).

Teachers across the choral, band and orchestra programs work together toward a cohesive program that builds upon skills as students continue to excel in depth and breadth within their chosen ensembles. “Compared to programs at other districts, ours offers so many more course offerings and opportunities for students,” continued Havrilla. “They are always being challenged, and are constantly reaching for that next level of proficiency. They push our limits, and in turn make us better musicians and educators.”

Another key to the music program’s success is the support provided by parents, who do everything they can to encourage their students; from providing extra lessons, to fundraising for the program at their schools, to contributing their time and energy to making sure their students’ ensembles have every possible opportunity to shine. The proof is in the many awards, accolades and invitations to perform at premier venues around the country and the world.

“Parents bring us exceptionally dedicated students—and we care about the development of every child in the program,” concluded Havrilla. “Not only musically, but also socially and academically.” And TSD’s exemplary Music Education program is not only a point of pride for our district, but for the entire community of the City of Troy.