LA TEACHER GETS GRAMMY HONORS - Last night was the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles –the Recording Academy’s night celebrating the best in music, including songs, albums, performers, music writers, and producers. But a special Grammy recognition was paid to a Louisiana Music teacher from the Lake Charles area , Mickey Smith, Jr. has been teaching music to students at Maplewood Middle School in Sulphur, Louisiana for 15 years. Music is so popular with students there that about half the student body makes up the band. Smith told CBS news why he chose teaching over becoming a professional musician.
"It's so rewarding, why not teach?" Smith asked. "Everyone should have an opportunity to pour into someone else. If you pourt your cup empty it comes back twice as full."
Smith said he started learning music when his frugal grandmother bought a $400 used saxophone, he said he wasn’t very good at first as his mom made him practice outside until he got better. The Recording Academy Association recognized Smith as Music Educator of the Year, he will also receive a $10,000 honorarium with a matching school grant. Smith also has a non-profit organization that provides instruments to children in the community.
