School of Music’s Jared Chase is recognized for his dedication to creating music opportunities for student musicians county-wide
Nazareth University’s Director of Wind Studies Jared Chase, D.M.A., will receive the 2023-24 Richard H. Snook Memorial Award from the Monroe County School Music Association, or MCSMA, for his commitment to music education and his contributions to creating experiences and opportunities for Monroe County students.
“The MCSMA board greatly appreciates the time, energy, and enthusiasm Jared has put into hosting our senior high festival at Nazareth University,” said MCSMA Board Chair Katrya Cichanowicz. “We also see the incredible opportunities that the Nazareth honor band ensemble holds for the students in Monroe County. All of his efforts have contributed to the betterment of music education.”
The award is given annually in the memory of Dick Snook, a Monroe County music educator, department head, founder, and executive director of the New York State Band Directors’ Association.
Since Chase’s arrival at Nazareth in 2012, Chase has played a pivotal role in the transformative growth of the band program, evolving from a single band into a flourishing and inclusive array of ensembles, including the Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Night Flyers Campus-Community Band, Chamber Winds, Brass Choir, Saxophone Society, and two Jazz Ensembles. His impact extends beyond the rehearsal room, contributing significantly to the local musical landscape.
Under his direction, the Nazareth Wind Symphony has been invited to perform at the College Band Directors National Association Eastern Division in 2018 and 2022, New York State School Music Association, and New York State Band Directors Association conferences in 2015 and 2022. The Wind Symphony embarked on a memorable tour of Ireland in May 2022.
He has cultivated collaborations that extend music-making opportunities for students of all ages in Monroe County. Initiatives such as the Nazareth Honor Band Festival, Spotlight on Excellence Side-by-Side Concerts with local high school ensembles, and workshops bringing together students from Monroe County and beyond, fostering a community of musical excellence and collaboration.
Chase's commitment to Monroe County also extends beyond the campus. He has actively contributed to music education in the region, teaching at various institutions and engaging with students of all ages in the public schools in Monroe County. In his role as president of the College Band Directors National Association - Eastern Division, he continues to champion music education initiatives and collaboration opportunities, strengthening the bonds between collegiate music programs and the vibrant musical community of Monroe County.
Chase will accept his award on March 9 at Nazareth University when Nazareth’s School of Music hosts the Senior High All-County Festival. “I am genuinely honored to accept the Richard H. Snook Memorial Award from the MCSMA board,” said Chase. “It means a great deal to be recognized for my contributions to music education in Monroe County.”
For More Information
Julie Long | Senior News & PR Officer | jlong2@naz.edu | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (cell)
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