Brooklyn students celebrate their teacher's Grammy nomination
NEW YORK -- This weekend, Brooklyn music teacher Mark Edwards will be celebrating a significant achievement as part of an ensemble nominated for a Grammy. Edwards, a guitarist, contributed to the album "Bespoke Songs" by Fontina Naumenko and composer Jonathan Newman, which is competing in the "Best Classical Solo Vocal Album" category. This marks the first Grammy nomination for the accomplished musician.
Reflecting on the nomination, Edwards expressed surprise at the recognition they received for the album, saying, "We very much knew when we were recording it that like, 'oh, my goodness, this is amazing.' But you would never expect to receive accolades necessarily." His pride is also visible in his teaching, where he shares his passion for music with students at Success Academy in Prospect Heights.
During guitar ensemble practice, anticipation fills the air as Edwards' elementary and middle school students play together. Sixth grader Ashley Preval shared her excitement, saying, "I can just tell my friends, my teacher's been nominated and stuff makes me feel excited." Edwards emphasizes the importance of his teaching approach, aiming to help students understand and experience music deeply, which can ultimately lead them to read and perform music effectively.
Edwards is known for challenging his students and pushing them to achieve their best. Fifth grader Ethan Bhimulo noted, "He pushes us harder and, like, gives us challenges and makes sure we get the piece perfect before we go to the performance." Many of his students, inspired by his talent, aspire to follow in his footsteps and pursue careers in music.
As the Grammys approach, Edwards plans to enjoy the evening from home, saying with a laugh that he will be "planted on the couch with a bowl of popcorn." Regardless of the outcome, he and his students, along with his colleagues, will have plenty to celebrate. The Grammy awards air live this Sunday at 8 p.m. on CBS New York and will stream on Paramount+.