Yamaha has announced its selection of 40 exceptional music educators under 40 and Dr. Leah N. Claiborne, associate professor of music (piano) and coordinator of keyboard studies, is among the winners. The 40 under 40 awardees must “possess action, courage, creativity, and growth characteristics while going above and beyond when instructing music programs.” The committee also chose music educators who “elevate their communities by continually showing their love and charisma for music.”
Dr. Claiborne has been a trailblazer for years. She teaches the history of African American music at UDC and focuses on using Black composers in her performances and research. In 2022, she received the 2022 Stecher & Horowitz Power of Innovation Award from the Music Teachers National Association.