At the 2019 Midwest Clinic, the National Band Association presented Distinguished Service Awards to two individuals in recognition of their tireless contributions to the NBA over the years. The members of the NBA would like to congratulate and express our sincere appreciation to John Casagrande and Paula Crider.
An accomplished and well-respected educator, John Casagrande served the National Band Association in a number of capacities throughout his distinguished career. John served as a member of the NBA Board of Directors, as Executive Administrator, and as Director of Corporate Relations. He was also instrumental in the formation of NBA Symposiums which are currently hosted across the country.
Professor Emerita at the University of Texas – Austin, Paula Crider is a past president of the National Band Association. In 2004 she developed the NBA Young Conductor Mentor Project working in conjunction with Mark Camphouse and the NBA Young Composer Mentor Project. For the past 15 years, Paula has volunteered her time to administer the project which has provided opportunities for over 35 conductors to develop and enhance their skills. The 2019 YCMP marked her final year coordinating the project as she has chosen to step back to work on other activities.