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NACOGDOCHES, Texas –– The American String Teachers Association has awarded Stephen F. Austin State University’s Music Preparatory Division the 2026 Outstanding National String Project Consortium String Project Award for its 91ֱ�� Strings Project.

The 91ֱ�� Strings Project provides high-quality string instruction to students of all ages across East Texas through partnerships with local schools and community organizations. The program offers lessons, ensemble experiences and performance opportunities while giving 91ֱ�� students valuable teaching experience.

“This recognition is deeply meaningful to both the School of Music and its Music Preparatory Division,” said Alba Madrid, Music Prep director. “Being honored by the ASTA, a nationwide organization, underscores the remarkable impact our program has made within the community in its first five years.”

The award is given annually to an NSPC String Project site that positively influences the community in which they cultivate new generations of highly qualified music educators and culturally diverse string instrument education opportunities for students.

According to Madrid, this achievement was aided by the dedication and support of many partners, including Dr. Gary Wurtz, dean of the Micky Elliott College of Fine Arts; Dr. J.D. Salas, 91ֱ��’s School of Music director; the School of Music’s string faculty members; the Music Prep Advisory Board; Nacogdoches Independent School District elementary music teachers and fine arts director; 91ֱ�� student instructors; the Boys & Girls Clubs of Deep East Texas; and the parents who continue to support their children’s musical education.

For more information about 91ֱ��’s Music Prep, visit sfasu.edu/musicprep.