ANNANDALE, Va. — An Annandale High School music teacher is now a Grammy winner. Orchestra Director Annie Ray, the 2023 Fairfax County Public Schools Outstanding Secondary School Teacher of the Year, is the winner of the 2024 Grammy Music Educator Award.
Her win was announced on CBS Mornings on Thursday. She'll now head to Los Angeles on Sunday, Feb. 4, to officially receive the award during music's biggest night.
Friends, family and colleagues joined Mrs. Ray for a watch party early Thursday. The crowd erupted in cheers when the announcement was made.
“It’s been a whirlwind experience!” she said following the announcement. “I'm so thankful to all the people who have poured love into me to allow me to make music. I am honored to have been selected from a remarkable group of educators.”
She thanked her colleagues for their support and student Kevin Juramillo for inspiring Crescendo Orchestra, which serves students with severe developmental or intellectual disabilities.
“Most of all I want to thank my students to whom this award actually belongs,” she said. The love of making music has been our unity and community. Thank you all for allowing me to guide you in this, I am humbled to accept this award for you all.”
Presented by the Recording Academy and the Grammy Museum, the award recognizes music educators "who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education and who demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools."
Mrs. Ray was one of 10 finalists for the award chosen from 2,000 candidates. The award comes with a $10,000 cash prize for her, and a matching grant for the school's music program.
In addition to founding the Crescendo Orchestra, she is also the founder of the FCPS Parent Orchestra, where parents of music students have the opportunity to learn the same instrument as their child.
“Annie is known for her passion, skill, and belief that every student can achieve greatness,” Principal Shawn DeRose said. “Her impact and dedication has made a positive difference in the school community. She truly is an inspiration, and we are so proud of her.”
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