Yamaha Honors Sonya Schumann in its Sixth Annual 40 Under 40 Music Program

Yamaha has recognized 40 outstanding music educators under 40 for the sixth consecutive year. Sonya Schumann, Lecturer of Piano and Community Music School Piano Coordinator at San Diego State University is among the honorees who exemplify action, courage, creativity and growth and who go above and beyond in their music instruction. 

The 40 Under 40 music education program honors music educators at all grade levels.

“My superpower as a music educator is intentional ecosystem-building— viewing people, programs, and values as interconnected, and designing structures where all three can thrive,” said Schumann. 

“I don’t just teach piano; I orchestrate environments in which students, teachers, and institutions support one another meaningfully. I look beyond my contract-assigned courses or students, aligning students with teachers who meet their musical and human needs, pairing peers for growth, and connecting collegiate training to real-world impact. This allows me to expand programs, cultivate an inclusive repertoire, and turn ideals of equity, collaboration, and love of music into sustainable, nationally recognized action,” she said.

Schumann is a pianist praised for her “delicate, introspective, and energetic” artistry, equally compelling as a soloist and collaborator. She has appeared on stages across North America, with recent performances alongside the San Diego Symphony, the Mainly Mozart All-Stars, and The Old Globe. An avid chamber musician and champion of contemporary music, she has released numerous recordings with a variety of ensembles, widely available on Spotify and other streaming platforms.

Alongside her performing career, Schumann is a dedicated educator and arts leader. She serves as Lecturer of Piano and Community Music School Piano Coordinator at SDSU and has taught at institutions nationwide. She is director of AmateurPianists, Director of the San Diego International Piano Competition and Festival, and founder of Keys to Inclusion, an initiative amplifying works by Black American composers. Her honors include the SDSU Outstanding Faculty Award in Research and Innovation.

Schumann holds a Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music from the University of Michigan.

Hundreds of nominations were submitted by students, parents, teachers, local instrument dealers and mentors, showcasing the music educators who made a positive impact on their community and students.  

“At a moment when music education faces increasing pressure, these educators are not just sustaining programs; they’re reimagining what’s possible,” said Heather Mansell, marketing manager of education at Yamaha. “Yamaha is committed to expanding access to high-qualitymusic education for all students, and we’re proud to champion these 40 educators and the thousands nationwide who are leading with creativity, resilience and vision.”

To learn more about Sonya Schumann and other honoree educators, visit: http://yamaha.io/40Under40