Case Western Reserve University alumnus Al Rodriguez (B.S. in Music Education, 2015) has been named a 2026 honoree in Yamaha’s prestigious 40 Under 40 program, recognizing innovative music educators who are shaping the future of the profession.
Rodriguez, who also holds a Master of Music from Ithaca College (2021), serves as Orchestra Director and Music Technology Teacher at Mount Vernon High School in Alexandria, Virginia, and as Music Director of the Washington Metropolitan Youth Orchestra. His work is centered on expanding access, removing barriers, and creating learning environments where excellence is expected and every student sees themselves as capable of achieving at the highest level.
Under his leadership, Mount Vernon’s orchestra program has more than doubled in size, and his creative initiatives — including community partnerships, student mentorship models, and innovative fundraising efforts — continue to strengthen music education in his region.