This marks the sixth year Yamaha has recognized 40 outstanding music educators under the age of 40 in the “40 Under 40” music education advocacy program. These outstanding teachers are making a difference by growing and strengthening their thriving music programs.
These 40 educators 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, parents, other teachers and administrators, local instrument dealers and mentors. The selected “40 Under 40” educators below have gone above and beyond to elevate music and music-making in their students’ lives.
This year’s group includes
- eight elementary school educators,
- seven middle school teachers,
- 13 high school directors,
- four who work at multiple schools within their districts or at the district level,
- five university professors
- and three who serve through private and nonprofit organizations.
All “40 Under 40” educators have remarkable stories behind their teaching philosophies and methods. Many embrace diverse and unique music like Matthew Gramata whose high school band includes a bagpipes and Celtic drumming ensemble; Joshua Emanuel, who teaches a unit in Ghanaian music; Sean Rosenberry, whose elementary students learn traditional Irish music and dance; and Eric Stashek who started a polka group. Meghan Mulligan was inspired by her autistic brother to pursue special music education, Tiphanie McClenton became a music educator like her father who taught for more than 40 years, and Matt Siffert brings music to students who live in homeless shelters, supportive housing networks or attend low-income Title I schools. Two educators are mariachi directors, two are board-certified music therapists, many employ Orff-Schulwerk and Delcroze approaches.
In short, all these music teachers are inspiring. Join us in applauding the 2026 class of “40 Under 40” educators.
Meet the 2025 “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
