
Celebrating Gary Washburn's Musical Legacy
Gary Washburn's Inspirational Journey
Gary Washburn, with his passion for music, has been a guiding light for students at Honokaʻa High and Intermediate School. For decades, he has inspired them to follow their dreams and explore the world of music. His unique approach to teaching goes beyond traditional methods, encouraging students to bring in the music they love. This has led to the growth and success of the school's music programs.He writes arrangements for the band and vocalists, and they perform frequently in the community and across the islands. Their annual CD album production serves as a fundraiser, with 20 albums released so far. This not only showcases their talent but also contributes to the school's music department.The Honokaʻa Jazz Band's Remarkable Achievements
Under Gary Washburn's direction, the Honokaʻa Jazz Band has become one of the most remarkable high school bands in Hawaiʻi and beyond. They have performed at prestigious venues such as National Public Radio's "From the Top," the Big Island Jazz Festival (5 times), the Hawaiʻi State Capitol, Iolani Palace, KGMB Hawaiʻi News Now, CNN's "Jazz Alley," and the Edison Learning Convention.A select ensemble, the Dragon Jazz Band, has even embarked on a multi-island tour with renowned blues artists Johnny Nicholas. Their performances have garnered recognition and acclaim, making them a symbol of excellence in high school music.Honors and Awards for Gary Washburn
Gary Washburn's contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2011, HHIS received a Signature Schools award from the Grammy Foundation, one of only 23 out of 23,000 schools. They have been nominated for a Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award for Jazz Album of the Year and received recognition from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.He has been named a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction, a Living Hawaiian Treasure by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaiʻi, and Jazz Educator of the Year from the Jazz Education Network. These honors are a testament to his exceptional work and influence in the field of music education.Upcoming Events and Fundraising
Upcoming events include the Band's Winter Performance & Silent Auction on December 6 in the HHIS Cafeteria from 6-8:30 p.m., and a free concert on December 15 in the Queens' Shops Gazebo from 5-7 p.m. In April 2025, the Jazz Band (now with 37 students) will again celebrate National Jazz Appreciation month with an off-island, multi-venue concert tour. Contributions to help fund this annual tour can be sent to "Honokaʻa Music Boosters," c/o Gary Washburn, Music Director, Honokaʻa High and Elementary School, 45-527 Pakalana St., Honokaa, HI 96727.Gary Washburn's legacy continues to inspire and shape the future of music at Honokaʻa High and Intermediate School. His work will be remembered for generations to come.New

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