Student writes winning essay about symphony

An essay contest on the subject “Why it is important to have a symphony in our town” for secondary school students is an addition to the Spokane Symphony education emphasis this year.

JJ Brown, a freshman at Gonzaga Preparatory School, was named the winner with an essay chosen from 30 submitted by students throughout the area. She will receive complimentary tickets to the Spokane Symphony’s Education Classics concert Jan. 23 at 3 p.m. in the Martin Woldson theater at the Fox, be acknowledged during the concert and have the opportunity to meet Music Director Eckart Preu.

Stevens Elementary School Principal Mike Crabtree and North Central High School Principal Steven Gering are winners of the Arts Administrator awards.

Spokane Symphony Classics Concert, featuring violinist Augustin Hadelich, will be Jan. 22 at 8 p.m., and Jan. 23 at 3 p.m., at the Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 W. Sprague Ave. For more information, go to www.spokane symphony.org.