Dan Brenner Recognized by Central PA Music Hall of Fame

Spring Grove Area School District is proud to share that Dan Brenner, Music Teacher overseeing the Modern Band program at Spring Grove Area High School, has been named a 2025 Educator of Note by the Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame (CPMHOF). This prestigious honor recognizes educators who have made a lasting impact on music education and inspired students through excellence, innovation, and dedication to the craft.

Mr. Brenner’s passion for music and commitment to student-centered learning have helped shape a dynamic modern music program at SGAHS, offering students meaningful opportunities to learn, perform, and create. His recognition at the regional level highlights the strong tradition of arts education within Spring Grove Area School District and the exceptional educators who make it possible.

The following information is provided by the Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame:

Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame

Congratulations to the 2025 Educator of Note, Dan Brenner!

Dan Brenner is the Director of Modern Music for Spring Grove Area High School with 24 years of dedicated instruction. Dan oversees various classes, from Modern Band to Songwriting, and directs the Select Modern Band and Pep Band. His accolades include being a quarter-finalist for the Grammy Educator Award and earning recognition as an Outstanding Teacher by Shippensburg University. His Modern Band program has been recognized as an exemplary program by Shippensburg University.

His educational journey began at Lebanon Valley College, where he earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Music Education and Music with a focus on jazz and percussion. Dan also holds master’s degrees in Classroom Technology from Wilkes University and in Music Education from Lebanon Valley College, complemented by a Modern Band certificate from the same institution.

Dan's musicality also extends to live performances both as a solo artist and with Mark DeRose and the Dreadnoughts, boasting seven recorded albums. His stage experience includes performances alongside Grammy Award–winning artists like Blues Traveler, Michelle Branch, and Laura Story, as well as national talents such as Clark Terry, Delta Rae, The Gin Blossoms, Low Cut Connie, Edwin McCain, and Rusted Root. Dan is also a highly sought-after session vocalist. His latest release, Carry On, can be found at all major media outlets.

Dan will receive the Educator of Note award live on stage at the 7th Annual CPMAs & Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the American Music Theatre on Wednesday, March 4.