Posted: March 26, 2025
Camas High School choir teacher Ethan Chessin was named one of just ten finalists for the 2025 Grammy Music Educator Award, selected from over 2,400 nominations nationwide. The nomination recognized Chessin’s innovative approach to music education during his 14-year tenure at CHS.
“I was pretty shocked – there are dozens of incredible music teachers in the Portland area alone, with some truly world-class performing ensembles,” said Chessin when he was notified of his Grammy nomination. “What I do is a little off the beaten path in the world of music education. It’s so unexpectedly delightful to be recognized for my innovations when I am constantly in awe of the amazing teaching happening all around me – not to mention all over the country!”
Chessin’s curriculum ventures far beyond standard choral music, unlike traditional choir programs. His students explore diverse musical traditions, collaborate with professional musicians, and gain hands-on experience in music industry roles. This year, Chessin’s choir students have explored music from South Asia, and upcoming projects will explore Northwest cultures, East Asian Music, Ukraine, Morocco, and more.
“What really makes choir special is that every culture everywhere has a version of it – at its core, choir is singing, which people do together everywhere in the world,” Chessin shared. “It’s a tremendous opportunity to learn about the world and its cultures.”
The Grammy Music Educator Award was presented by the Recording Academy and Grammy Museum. As one of the ten finalists for the award, Chessin received a $1,000 honorarium with a matching school grant. The award program is supported by The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, with additional support from the American Choral Directors Association, National Association for Music Education, NAMM Foundation, and National Education Association.
Chessin’s nomination marks a significant milestone for Washington state music education, as he was one of just two nominees from the Pacific Northwest among this year’s finalists. His innovative program continues to evolve, with current students immersed in exploring South Asian musical traditions, including traditional and classical singing, konnakol (rhythmic recitation), and Bharatanatyam dance.
“Through innovative projects and remarkable dedication, Ethan has elevated our music program from a traditional choir to a dynamic platform where students learn about world cultures, artistic collaboration, and the broader music industry,” said Camas High School Principal Kelly O’Rourke. “His impact extends far beyond our school’s walls.”
Regarding the lasting impact Chessin hopes his Grammy nomination will have on music education in Camas and beyond, he shared, “I think I’ve attracted attention for the concerts we put on in Camas and Portland from people who would never ordinarily pay attention to school music ensembles. By collaborating with local indie rockers, gospel musicians, and traditional culture bearers, we bring the world to our school and our school to the world. I hope we can get more teachers inspired to try new things and expand our musical offerings in schools, and I also hope we can get broader audiences to care about choir and realize what incredible things students are capable of!”
