The John East “Spirit of Orpheus” Award

This award is in honor of John Edgar East, former band director of Willow Springs.  John directed the Willow Springs Bands for 25 years, served as SCMMEA Band VP for 4 years and was beginning service as SCMMEA Jazz VP before his untimely death in November of 1999.  John’s dedication to his students, district, and fellow band directors prompted the necessity for this award.

This award is for an SCMMEA band director that has put in many years of service to education and the SCMMEA.  It also should recognize the veteran director that is always willing to help the “rookie” director with a humble attitude.  John never vaulted himself above others and always made young directors feel a sense of worth about themselves.  Young & old directors alike spent a great deal of time on the phone with John seeking or receiving advice, asking John for help, or just finding someone to unload on.  John appreciated the “fraternity” of our job.

This award is voted upon by the SCMMEA band directors at the District Band rehearsal by closed ballot, and is presented at that evening’s concert.