Flower City School No. 54 Music Teacher Recognized Nationally with Yamaha 40 Under 40 Honor

Zach Arenz, a music teacher at Flower City School No. 54, has been named to Yamaha’s 40 Under 40 Music Educators Class of 2026. Now in its sixth year, the program recognizes 40 outstanding music teachers under 40 who are strengthening music programs nationwide. Educators are selected who demonstrate action, courage, creativity, and growth, with hundreds of nominations submitted by students, parents, colleagues, and mentors.

Arenz, the 2024 New York State Teacher of the Year, was chosen for building a music program grounded in access, belonging, and joy, where students’ voices guide instruction and everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. He describes music as “a vehicle for human connection,” a philosophy that shapes both his classroom and relationships with students.

At Flower City School No. 54, Arenz has created nontraditional ensembles, including modern band and ukulele, giving students new ways to engage with music. These groups encourage students to take risks, work together, and celebrate their achievements.

Yamaha recognized Arenz for using music to engage learners and strengthen school culture — demonstrating the action and creativity that the award honors. His programs show how music can inspire students and provide meaningful learning experiences.

In addition to the Yamaha honor, Arenz was recently nominated for a LifeChanger of the Year Award, which recognizes educators nationwide for excellence and leadership. He has also broadened his global perspective through the National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship, traveling to Iceland and Greenland, and he will travel to South Africa this summer as a 2026 NEA Foundation Global Learning Fellow, bringing those experiences back to enrich his classroom.

As a member of Yamaha’s 40 Under 40 class, Arenz joins a nationally distinguished cohort of educators shaping music education in schools, universities, and nonprofit programs, further solidifying his role as a leader in the field.