A Special Award of
The John Philip Sousa Foundation
Kerry Wasano has been the band director at Maui High School in Kahului, Hawaii for his whole 27 year career. In 2014, he was inducted to the Maui High School Hall of Honor as a “Saber Spirit Award” recipient. In 2015, Maui High School was the first Maui school to ever be invited to march in the Rose Parade, and in 2017, Maui High School participated for the first time in the Bands of America Grand National Championships in Indianapolis. His band participates in the Maui District High School Band Festival each year.
Wasano attended the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Music and his Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Secondary Education. He also attended the Moscow State University for Culture & Arts, Russia receiving his Director of Folk Art certification specializing in Wind Band Conducting.
- The Bandworld Legion of Honor was established in 1989 to honor, over the course of a year, eight of the finest band directors in our business.
- Recipients have taught for at least fifteen years, have maintained a very high-quality concert band program, and have contributed significantly to the profession through dedication to bands and band music.
- Each is honored at the annual Sousa Foundation awards ceremony during the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.
- Chairman of the Legion of Honor Committee is Terry Austin, Virginia Commonwealth University.
Kerry says, “The most important factor in shaping my career has been the support of my family. Without them, I would not have been able to spend the time required to build a successful program. In addition I credit much of the accomplishments in my career to great relationships with both my mentors and colleagues. Without their amazing and sometimes harsh feedback, I would not have been driven to improve myself as an educator.“
His professional philosophy statement is, “My teaching style is inspired by traits that were demonstrated to me by former teachers I have encountered. I hope to impart lasting impressions through patience, passion, and trust. By acknowledging students’ inherent goodness and offering second chances, teachers can guide them through mistakes, fostering growth and resilience. As the driving force of education, teachers should be well-informed, compassionate, and dedicated to developing students into well-rounded human beings. Ultimately, we must be proactive in shaping our students’ lives, ensuring a positive and meaningful experience during our brief time together in band and music.”
