Click here to submit Sousa Award winners.
(Information must be submitted by school band directors - not students or parents. Winners from previous years, who are no longer students, may email us the information accompanied by a picture of the Sousa award with your name.)
Note: Director's names will be included for 2011 forward.
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2026
Andres Alvarez Murga Norwood Junior High School, Sacramento, CA. Class of 2026. Instrument: Flute, Director: Charity Tanaleon. Beginning band student who excelled at playing flute and taught himself how to play oboe while transitioning back from COVID. A humble and supportive young man who is a young scholar.
Brody Davis New Brockton High School, New Brockton, AL. Class of 2026. Instrument: Percussion, Director: Ryan Gresko. Brody is an exemplary student, currently ranked 3rd in his class of 123 with a 4.58 GPA. He approaches his academics with diligence, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity, and he consistently strives for excellence. His recognition as a Coffee County Youth Leadership Program Representative, McLin Scholarship recipient, and officer in the National Beta Club are just a few indicators of his ability to lead and inspire among his peers. Brody’s achievements in music and the arts further illustrate his discipline and determination. From earning multiple Best in Class Percussionist awards to serving as Drumline Captain and representing his school in honor bands across the state, he has proven himself capable of excelling in demanding environments. As a Black Belt in Taekwondo, a Boys State delegate, and a Troy Trojan Patriot Academy participant, Brody has consistently sought out opportunities to challenge himself and to lead.
Makenzie Dingus Honaker High School, Honaker, VA. Class of 2026. Instrument: Clarinet, Director: Shawn Matney. Dedicated to excellence, Makenzie has been the Woodwinds Captain for the last three years and her leadership has been a critical component to the rebuilding of the band program at Honaker High School. Being selected four times to perform with VBODA's District VII All-District Band, her superior musicianship is consistently demonstrated. Makenzie is most deserving of this prestigious award.
Adam Dye Rockmart High School, Rockmart, Georgia. Class of 2026. Instrument: Trombone, Director: Connor Teems.
Brylee Heimgartner Flinthills USD 492, Rosalia, KS. Class of 2026. Instrument: Trumpet/Baritone, Director: Emily O'Banion. Brylee is an exceptionally hard worker. She has spent her time in band being a leader to her younger peers as well as thriving on her two instruments. Brylee has also striven to learn other instruments when needed. It has been a privilege having her in band.
Krieg Luke Fitzgerald High School College & Career Academy, Fitzgerald, GA. Class of 2026. Instrument: Trombone, Director: Melissa Bracewell.
Ryanne McNellis Burlingame Kansas School District #454, Burlingame, KS. Class of 2026. Instrument: Oboe, Director: Lindsey Wendleton.
Alexandra Rathbone Rejoice Christian School, Owasso, OK. Class of 2026. Instrument: Flute, Director: Emily Stevenson. Alexandra is a hardworking and talented trailblazer for our program. Her musical accomplishments include, but not limited to, being a 2 year Small School All-Stater, an All-Region honor band member every year, consistent superior ratings at OSSAA Solo and Ensemble, and a member of the Tulsa Youth Symphony.
Braydon Sanders Hagerstown Jr./Sr. High School, Hagerstown, IN. Class of 2026. Instrument: Trumpet, Director: Kendra A Sanders. Braydon Sanders is a dedicated student of the Hagerstown Jr./Sr. Band. He plans to go to college and become a Band Director!
Ryan Schaap Jupiter Christian School, Jupiter, Florida. Class of 2026. Instrument: Trumpet, Director: Holly Cline. Ryan is a top tier trumpet player, achieving high excellence in musicianship and dedication. He is a student leader of the jazz band and has achieved seats in honor, county, and state bands several years in a row. Ryan also performs with community and professional performing groups.
Maddy Winters Mary Persons High School, Forsyth, GA. Class of 2026. Instrument: Flute, Director: Tyler Allen. Maddy is an exceptional musician and leader for our organization. Her commitment and dedication towards her music will continue to serve her well in her future endeavors.