Studies have shown that participation in music has positive effects on the grades, attitude, and behavior of students. We certainly see the positive effects in our students at New Albany High School. Music, combined with the pursuit of excellence, the emphasis on teamwork, dedication, and commitment is all part of our marching program that equips our students for life in school and beyond.
Each year, we are pleased to recognize three outstanding students of the New Albany High School Band that exemplify the lessons learned in our program. Descriptions for each of the awards and previous winners are listed.
John Philip Sousa Award
The Sousa Award is the pinnacle of achievement in a high school band.
Introduced in 1955 to honor the top student in the high school band, the John Philip Sousa Band Award® recognizes superior musicianship and outstanding dedication. Only a single student at a school may receive this award each year. It was created with the approval of Helen Sousa Albert and Priscilla Sousa, daughters of the famous composer and bandmaster.
National Sousa Registry
Directors may fill out an online form to post the names of winning students, current and previous, online. This national registry will become a permanent record of students’ achievements, and will be open for viewing by friends, family, and college admission departments. Go to www.sousawinners.com to register or view current and past winners.
Patrick S. Gilmore Award
The Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award was introduced in 1994 in honor of the legendary bandmaster and impresario. Patrick Gilmore (1829-1892) and his band joined General Burnside’s expedition to North Carolina in the Civil War. Gilmore also played for every president of his day, including Abraham Lincoln. This beautiful award honors outstanding high school band students and their achievements and commitment to the band. It may be used as a runner-up award to the John Philip Sousa Award.
Louis Armstrong Jazz Award
The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award was inaugurated in 1974 with the consent of his widow shortly after this great jazz artist died in 1971. It honors the outstanding jazz musician at each high school. Only a single student at a school may receive this award each year.
2024
John Philip Sousa Award -
Patrick S. Gilmore Award -
Louis Armstrong Jazz Award -
2023
John Philip Sousa Award - Wesley Omerso
Patrick S. Gilmore Award - Leigha Trusty
Louis Armstrong Jazz Award - Noah Schremser
2022
John Philip Sousa Award - Harvey
Patrick S. Gilmore Award - Cadie Blanchard
2021
John Philip Sousa Award - Caitlyn Nevin
2017
John Philip Sousa Award - Emily Ayers
2016
John Philip Sousa Award - Melanie Schnobrich
Director's Award - Jackie Barger
2015
John Philip Sousa Award - Trent Bennett
Director's Award - Emily Ayers
2014
John Philip Sousa Award - Tyler Jones
Director's Award - Sara Albakaa
1958
John Philip Sousa Award - Bob Carter
Due to changes in directors, our records are incomplete for previous years. If you have historical information to fill our records, please contact Mr. Scroggins at nscroggins@nafcs.org