Interlochen’s own Courtney Kaiser-Sandler advances to quarterfinals for GRAMMY Music Educator Award
Kaiser-Sandler, who serves as Associate Director of Contemporary Music and Collaborative Projects as well as Director of Singer-Songwriter at Interlochen Center for the Arts, was recognized for her profound impact in music education.
Interlochen Center for the Arts has long been a global destination for artists, including both the countless individuals who learn there and the stellar educators who comprise its faculty. This April, a gifted educator in Interlochen’s Singer-Songwriter program who has served as a mentor figure to many was recognized at a national level.
Courtney Kaiser-Sandler, Associate Director of Contemporary Music and Collaborative Projects and Director of Singer-Songwriter, entered the quarterfinal round for the prestigious Music Educator Award, awarded by the Recording Academy and the GRAMMY Museum. The Music Educator Award was established in 2014 to recognize current educators (kindergarten through college, public and private schools) who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education and who demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools.
Kaiser-Sandler has exemplified this commitment to music education throughout her career, drawing from extensive experience as a songwriter, vocalist, and musician to become a beloved mentor to countless students and the founder of the singer-songwriter program at Interlochen Arts Academy. As a musician, Kaiser-Sandler is known for her work with high-profile artists from John Mellencamp to Sufjan Stevens, and her original songs have been heard on film and television including major films like The Firm and Liberal Arts. She has worked in the music industry as a booking agent, promoter, and in tour management for the likes of Bon Jovi as well as artists in development. As an educator, Kaiser-Sandler has touched the lives of talented students like Claud, Lauren Jones of Trousdale, and Rett Madison. With over 20 years in education, she has built music curriculum for various schools like the Blue School founded by the Blue Man Group. Along with intensive instruction in technique and industry know-how, Kaiser-Sandler is known for sharing her signature reflections on mindfulness and self-esteem with the next generation of musicians.
“So many music educators are giving the gift of music on a daily basis during school and after school,” Kaiser-Sandler reflects. ”It is needed now for young people more than ever; music is the very fabric that connects us and everyone is capable of making it. I’m honored and humbled to be recognized, and I look forward to learning about and celebrating the work of others making dreams happen through music education for young people across the United States!”
Students at Interlochen Arts Academy enjoy world-renowned artistic training from gifted professionals alongside college-preparatory academics. Learn more about Interlochen Arts Academy.
