Band director named top state educator

by Melissa Martin

Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School Band Director Steve Cocchiola has been named the Ohio Music Education Association Educator of the Year.

The award was presented to Cocchiola prior to the district’s holiday band concert on Dec. 15. Brad Stevens, OMEA President-Elect, was present at the concert to announce the selection.

Stevens shared that Cocchiola was nominated by a professional colleague from the OMEA membership based on his creativity, understanding of music education philosophies and demonstration of professional collegiality.  

Cocchiola demonstrated his creativity during the holiday band concert with a unique rendition of “Sleigh Ride,” which engaged all musicians involved.

Cocchihola will also be recognized at the state OMEA event later this month.

“This is truly a well-deserved award, and thank you for being a fine representation of the Brecksville-Broadview Heights City Schools on this prominent statewide level,” Superintendent Joelle Magyar told Cocchiola.