Case Western Reserve University Department of Music alumnus Al Rodriguez (BS ’15) has been named one of 10 national finalists for the 2027 GRAMMY Music Educator Award.
Rodriguez earned his Bachelor of Science in Music Education in 2015 from Case Western Reserve University. He later earned a Master of Music in Music Education from Ithaca College in 2021.
Rodriguez serves as orchestra director at Mount Vernon High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, where he has taught since 2017. His dedication to building meaningful relationships with students, fostering an inclusive musical environment, and creating innovative learning experiences has earned him national recognition.
Earlier this year, Rodriguez was also named a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” honoree, recognizing innovative music educators who are shaping the future of the profession. Under his leadership, Mount Vernon’s orchestra program has more than doubled in size, reflecting his commitment to expanding access to music education and creating meaningful opportunities for students.
Presented by the Recording Academy and GRAMMY Museum, the Music Educator Award recognizes teachers who have made significant and lasting contributions to music education and demonstrated a commitment to maintaining music education in schools. Selected from more than 2,100 nominations nationwide, the 10 finalists represent outstanding educators making a lasting impact on their students and communities.
In addition to Rodriguez, the 2027 Music Educator Award finalists include Justin Antos, Ernesta Chicklowski, Michael Coelho, Roland Hatcher, Rachel Jayson, Dominique Lane, Angela McKenna, Edgar Rubio, and Emily Saenz.
Among Rodriguez’s notable accomplishments is a 2022 collaboration with composer Selena Ryan to commission Free Fall, an original orchestral work created specifically for his students. The project gave musicians of varying abilities an opportunity to participate in the creative process and premiere a composition reflecting the diversity and spirit of their school community.
Rodriguez’s recognition highlights the lasting influence of dedicated music educators on their students, schools, and communities. His achievement is a proud moment for the CWRU Department of Music and an inspiring example of how alumni continue to make meaningful contributions to music education.
The recipient of the 2027 GRAMMY Music Educator Award will be announced during GRAMMY Week in February 2027.
Congratulations to Al on this outstanding achievement and for continuing to Be a Force in music education, inspiring the next generation of musicians!