Yamaha launched the “40 Under 40” music education advocacy program in 2021 to celebrate and recognize outstanding young music educators who are making a difference by growing and strengthening their music programs. Now, we celebrate our fifth group of remarkable educators whose classrooms are safe spaces where musicality, creativity and innovation thrive.
These 40 educators — all under the age of 40 — showcase the following characteristics: action (anticipate what needs to be done and proactively take the necessary steps that lead to a stronger music program), courage (propose and implement new or bold ideas), creativity (show innovation and imagination in achieving plans and objectives) and growth (establish, grow or improve music education in their schools and communities).
We received hundreds of nominations from students and parents, teachers and administrators, local instrument dealers and mentors. The 40 educators below emphasize care and compassion with their students above all else as they elevate music and music-making in their schools and communities — like Dr. Liliana Guerrero, who introduces opera to elementary school students; Annie Ray, who started an orchestra for students with significant and severe disabilities; Michael Blanco, who took his award-winning mariachi ensemble to the White House to perform for President Joe Biden; Coty Raven Morris, who designed a houseless choir in her community; and Laura Del Rosso, who started a Saturday program to introduce middle school students to popular music education.
All the “40 Under 40” educators have remarkable stories , and you’ll be inspired by all of them.
Join us in applauding the 2025 class of “40 Under 40” educators.
Meet the 2024 “40 Under 40” Educators
Meet the 2023 “40 Under 40” Educators
Meet the 2022 “40 Under 40” Educators
Meet the 2021 “40 Under 40” Educators
Top Photo by Shutterstock/Malikova Nina
