Photo Credit: CFISDEducation
Anthony, Smith, Sprague orchestras named Houston Cup finalists
The Anthony, Smith and Sprague middle school orchestras were named finalists for the 2025 Houston Cup. The award recognizes excellent orchestra teaching and directing at the middle school level across the greater Houston area.
Anthony, led by director Joanna Schess; Smith, led by director Nassar Edwards; and Sprague, led by director Danielle Darrigo; were among the eight orchestras honored as finalists for the award.
“I could not be prouder of the dedication and hard work our chamber orchestra students showed last season,” Schess said. “Their constant drive to get a little bit better each day truly paid off. My deepest gratitude goes to our assistant director, Caleb Churchman, for his tireless work with our cellos and basses. We are also incredibly thankful for our entire orchestra community’s support systems—the clinicians, lesson teachers, parents and administration—for the vital role you played in our success.”
Added Edwards: “I am incredible proud of our chamber orchestra for being selected as a finalist for the second consecutive time in the Houston Cup. Our students’ dedication to excellence continues to shine. Thank you to our amazing parents and the Smith community for your unwavering support.”
Held in conjunction with the Ann C. Roberts Orchestra Festival, which is the state’s oldest orchestra-only festival, the Houston Cup began in 2019 to honor and recognize outstanding varsity orchestras and directors.
“Way to go Sprague Cubs,” Darrigo said. “We are incredibly proud of your hard work and the high standards you have set in only the second year of our school’s opening!”
Participants are invited to enter the competition based on receiving a superior rating at their respective regional UIL concert and sight-reading evaluations. Directors submit recordings and scores of two selections from the school year.
Each finalist will receive a certificate, and the Houston Cup winner will receive a traveling trophy with the school’s name added to the trophy’s base.
Source: CFISD
