David Harman, professor of music and director of orchestral activities at the University of Rochester and music director of the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, has been chosen by the Monroe County School Music Association as the 2005 recipient of the Richard H. Snook Award. The award, named for a longtime local school music teacher who also founded the New York State Band Directors Association, recognizes musicians who have made significant contributions to music education in the Rochester community.
The award will honor Harman for his many community involvements in music education over the past 12 years, including his collaborations with high school orchestras and choruses and educational programs for elementary, middle, and high school students he conducted with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Harman directs the University of Rochester Symphony Orchestra, whose members include student and community musicians and which recently presented a free community performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony as part of its 50th anniversary. He also directs the University’s Chamber Orchestra and various chamber ensembles and serves as music director of the Penfield Symphony Orchestra. Harman received the award on Saturday, April 2, at the Elementary All County-Music Festival.
Previous winners of the Snook Award include conductor, composer, and Grammy Award-winner Jeff Tyzik and former Eastman School of music jazz faculty member Fred Sturm.
The Monroe County School Music Association sponsors activities, such as music festivals and ensembles, to broaden musical experiences and opportunities for students. Its membership is composed of local music teachers.