Local music students win state, national awards
For the Metro Wire
A local music studio is boasting several award recipients.
The winning students take lessons at Heywood Music Studios, a local piano, guitar, and voice studio that sees about 50 students each week.
Students Josh Davis, Matt Davis, Lexi Ford, Kalyn Ford, John Jazdzewski, Benjamin Jore, Ella Solin, Payton Vollendorf, and Marissa Williams were all presented with the 2018 Music Teachers National Association Achievement Award.
Students performed during the statewide Wisconsin Music Teachers Association auditions in March. Participating students include: Josh Davis, Matt Davis, Kalyn Ford, Lexi Ford (200 point plaque); Ben Haemmerle, Lucas Haemmerle (50 point award); Nate Haemmerle, Arianna Jazdzewski, John Jazdzewski (22 pt. plaque); Benjamin Jore (100 point plaque); Erin Jore, Ben Kovalaske (22 pt. plaque); Ella Solin, Payton Vollendorf (22 point plaque); Marissa Williams.
Alana Caldwell and Lexi Ford also received the High School Achievement Award, presented to students who participate in the statewide auditions all four years of high school and the Graduating Senior Award from the Stevens Point Area Music Teachers Association.
Payton Vollendorf also competed in the statewide Badger Keyboard Competition, which took place on May 19.
Lexi Ford was awarded the 2018 Outstanding Achievement in Music Study Award. This award is presented to a student who displays exceptional musicianship qualities, enthusiasm, commitment and is extremely motivated.
All the students study privately with Gail Heywood at Heywood Music Studios.
Gail Heywood holds a master’s in music education degree, is a professional musician and a nationally-certified teacher of music. Heywood teaches students of all ages and has taught in both public and private schools. She is a member of the Music Teachers National Association, President of the Stevens Point Area Music Teachers Association and is the current Vice-President of the Wisconsin Music Teachers Association.
She maintains two studios, one at Heid Music in Stevens Point and a second location in Rudolph.
“I was overwhelmed by the energy and enthusiasm the students had to complete their goals,” Heywood said. “It is inspirational to see these young musicians are using their time, talents and treasures with others.”
For information on lessons and classes with Gail Heywood, please contact 715-204-4071 or heywoodmusicstudios.com.