For more than 80 years, the North Carolina Symphony has collaborated with music educators statewide to deliver its curriculum-aligned music education program to classrooms. Each year, the symphony recognizes three educators who help reach and inspire future musicians and audiences in their classrooms.
North Moore High School Band Director Nicki Nall Garner won the North Carolina Symphony Musicians Award.
The North Carolina Symphony said on its website that the Musicians Award honors emerging music educators with fewer than 10 years of teaching experience. This award is named for the musicians of the North Carolina Symphony in appreciation of their contributions to the children and communities of North Carolina, and in recognition of the fact that excellent music teachers have influenced each musician on stage.
According to the North Carolina Symphony, Garner is the first female high school band director in Moore County. She has been in public education for nine years, and “her life’s purpose is to help each one of her students reach their full potential: teaching that the power of music extends far beyond notes on a page.”
Garner served in the Marine Corps from 2008-12 and was stationed with the Albany Marine Band. Garner received her bachelor’s degree in music education with an instrumental emphasis from UNC Pembroke. While there, she was the Spirit of the Carolina’s Drum Major and an instructor for Fred J. Miller, teaching drum majors/leaders nationwide.
The North Carolina Symphony said that after completing her degree, Garner taught, advocated, and ultimately saved the Woodland Park High School marching band program in Colorado.
When Garner taught in Harnett County, she grew the program in membership, musicianship, and leadership, said the symphony. The Marching Jaguars represented North Carolina at the National Concert Band Invitational and the NATO Parade of Nations.
Garner and her son moved to Robbins after her husband passed away.
“Now as director, her mission is to continue the North Moore Band’s legacy—in the very place and program that shaped her,” said the North Carolina Symphony on its website. “Already securing consecutive superior ratings and earning several awards on and off the field, she and the Mustangs continue their mission to enrich the community.”
West Pine Elementary School music teacher Luke Arno received honorable mention.
“These statewide recognitions reflect the exceptional talent, passion, and dedication of our music educators,” said Moore County Schools on its social media page. “We are incredibly proud of Nicki and Luke and the lasting impact they make in the lives of our students every day. Congratulations on these well-deserved honors, and thank you for inspiring the next generation through the power of music!”
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Photo via the North Carolina Symphony.
