CENTREVILLE — The Queen Anne’s County High School String Orchestra, under the direction of Mr. Luke Whitehair, recently transformed the lobby of the John F. Andrews Performing Arts Auditorium into an inspiring concert venue, performing before Superintendent Dr. Matthew Kibler, Supervisor of Fine Arts Michael Bell, faculty members, families, and guests.
Bathed in natural light beneath the soaring circular rotunda, students performed in a space whose remarkable acoustics and towering architecture created an atmosphere reminiscent of a small artistic coliseum. Framed by the school’s lion mascot, the audience was immersed in a musical experience that showcased both the talent of the students and the innovative spirit of the performance.
The event also served as a celebration of the continued growth of Strings education in Queen Anne’s County Public Schools. Many of the student musicians performing began their musical journeys in the Sudlersville Middle School Strings Program, established and developed by Betsy Babylon, recipient of the 2023 Maryland Music Educators Association Music Educator of the Year Award. The program’s success was further supported by former Sudlersville principal turned Chief Financial Officer Rob Watkins, recipient of the 2023 MMEA Administrator of the Year Award. Together, their leadership helped create a strong foundation that is now flourishing at the high school level. Continued growth has been supported through grant funding secured by Bell in partnership with the Queen Anne’s County Arts Council, helping expand opportunities for student musicians.
Since arriving at QACHS, Whitehair has embraced a vision of music education that extends beyond traditional concert settings. From pop-up performances throughout the school and community appearances by student musicians to choir performances at Board of Education events and district celebrations, he has continually sought new ways to connect students with authentic performance experiences. Whether leading choir, strings, or helping support district music events, Whitehair has consistently demonstrated a willingness to build new opportunities for students while strengthening existing traditions. His willingness to step into additional leadership roles—including supporting Kent Island High School’s band program during graduation ceremonies—reflects a commitment to students and music education that extends far beyond his classroom.
As the QACHS strings program continues to grow, Whitehair is already exploring new opportunities for student musicians, including the development of a Commercial Music ensemble that would provide additional contemporary performance experiences for students.
“This performance was more than a concert,” Bell said. “It was a reminder of what can happen when exceptional educators create experiences students cannot wait to be part of.”
🎥 Performance Highlights: