The Victoria Bach Festival proudly recognizes Chris Hamelwright, band director at Howell Middle School, as its 2025 Music Teacher of the Year. As the Festival celebrates its landmark 50th anniversary, this award shines a spotlight on educators in our community who not only teach music—but transform lives.
Since stepping into his role at Howell Middle School last school year, Mr. Hamelwright has been a driving force behind a revitalized and thriving band program. His passion, leadership, and connection with students have quickly earned him the respect and admiration of families, fellow educators, and the broader Victoria community.
This award not only honors his musical excellence—it reflects the power of music education in shaping students’ futures. In classrooms across the Crossroads, music teachers like Mr. Hamelwright inspire creativity, build confidence, and create a sense of belonging that can last a lifetime.
“Chris Hamelwright embodies exactly what this award represents,” said David Faskas, President of the Victoria Bach Festival Board of Directors. “He exemplifies the highest ideals of music education—passion, purpose, and personal investment in every student.”
Carlos Gonzalez, Education Chair for the Festival, added, “Chris motivates and challenges his students in all the right ways. He sets high expectations while leading with encouragement and heart. He is not only teaching music—he’s teaching life.”
Dozens of powerful nomination letters poured in from parents, students, and community members who praised Mr. Hamelwright’s impact. Here are just a few examples of what they had to say:
“Mr. Hamelwright came into Howell Middle School and immediately showed his passion—not just for music, but for each and every student. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen a leader like him in any school district. I wish he could follow my child to high school. 10 stars out of 5!”
“He goes above and beyond. He communicates clearly, encourages every student, and even makes time before and after school to help. He makes each student feel seen and supported.”
“He teaches more than music—he teaches respect, trust, loyalty, and what it means to care for each other. He feels more like family.”
“He’s motivated my child to stick with the band when they were ready to quit. His belief in them made all the difference.”
“Chris instills the love of music in his students. He’s not just teaching them how to play an instrument—he’s teaching them how to believe in themselves.”
Students rally around his leadership because, as one parent shared, “they see he truly loves to teach and lead.” He keeps parents involved, celebrates student successes with personal calls and messages, and constantly promotes community music events to encourage lifelong musical engagement.
When informed of the award, Hamelwright responded humbly:
“I am deeply honored. Teaching music is about so much more than notes and rhythms—it’s about connecting with students, encouraging them, and helping them believe in themselves. I’m so proud of what we’ve built at Howell, and grateful to do this work every day.”
The Victoria Bach Festival is thrilled to honor Chris Hamelwright for his extraordinary contributions to music education. As the Festival continues to celebrate 50 years of inspiring performances and community engagement, this award serves as a powerful reminder that the heart of any musical tradition begins in the classroom—with dedicated educators like Mr. Hamelwright leading the way. Learn more about Victoria Bach Festival at www.VictoriaBachFestival.org
Please note that Chris will be presented with the award at the Victoria Bach Festival Finale Concert this Friday evening! For more information on the Victoria Bach Festival Finale, visit: https://victoriabachfestival.org/events/2025-orchestra-finale/