Spring High School Band Director Gabe Musella hears the news that he is being honored by the Texas Bandmasters Association.

HOUSTON – July 25, 2017 – Spring High School Band Director Gabe Musella has received the 2017 Meritorious Achievement Award from the Texas Bandmasters Association during the organization’s annual convention and clinic in San Antonio, July 19-22. Presented to only three educators across the state each year, the award honors band directors who have made a difference in the lives of students through their dedication and ongoing contributions to music education.

“This is one of the biggest honors a band director can receive in Texas,” said Joe Clark, Spring ISD director of performing and visual arts. “Gabe has truly dedicated his career to improving the students of Spring ISD.”

A 30-year veteran of the classroom who earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Texas Tech University – in music composition and conducting, respectively – Musella joined the district’s performing and visual arts faculty in 2000, having previously taught in the Lubbock-Cooper, Canyon, and Lubbock ISDs. He has led ensembles to UIL Sweepstakes recognitions, the finals of the Texas Music Educators Association Honor Band Competition, and to invitation performances at the Midwest Clinic and the Music for All Nations Concert Festival. He remains active as a clinician and composer, with published works for band, orchestra, percussion ensemble and chamber groups that have been heard in Texas concert halls and around the country, as well as internationally.

Addressing his Spring High School students and fellow faculty members after first learning of the award, Musella said, “I didn’t do all this, you guys did this, and all of our staff here. We all make this happen, and so I’m happy to accept this award on behalf of the Spring Band program.”

Richard Crain, former director of music for Spring ISD and past president of the Texas Bandmasters Association, delivered news of the award earlier in 2017 while addressing Musella’s students in the band room at Spring High School.

“I want to recognize your director and the significance of what he has done, not only in this program, but throughout the state. He is a gifted arranger and gifted composer … a master teacher and a compassionate leader,” Crain said.

Originally formed in 1920 by a group of band teachers in the Dallas area, the Texas Bandmasters Association, now the largest state band organization in the world, promotes music education, appreciation and scholarship through its annual convention, awards programs and professional development offerings to Texas music teachers.