Lukas Tokarczyk, a rising sophomore at Abington Senior High School, has been selected as an essay contest winner in the June issue of School Band and Orchestra Magazine.

According to the article, Tokarczyk will receive $1,000 courtesy of the magazine and the NAMM Foundation. 

Each winning student was asked about a music teacher who has changed their lives: What was it about them that had an impact on you? How did their teaching, personality, or actions differ from other good teachers?

Tokarczyk chose to talk about Kevin Longwill, an accomplished musician and a music industry teacher at Abington who was named to the Yamaha “40 Under 40” music education advocacy program for 2024.

Tokarczyk’s response is below:

My music technology teacher, Kevin Longwill, is the founder of Abington High School’s music industry program, M3. Because of him, I’ve learned about the modern band dynamic, including preparation, time, and equipment needed to produce a professional concert. This program shows how to attain a music career and has given me exposure to performances at several different venues. I look forward to practices, since M3 offers opportunities to play in touring bands and start bands with friends who have similar goals and interests. Mr. Longwill is an excellent leader and exceedingly qualified to shape aspiring musicians. Not only is he an expert in every part of our program, but he excels at teaching us the ins and outs of every piece of equipment he provides for us. His supportive and charismatic nature inspires our group in any decisions we make as artists and leads us to make improvements in our projects. I realize the odds of becoming an actual rock star are slim, but he constantly gives us confidence and support as we pursue our passions. I know even if I don’t become “the next big thing,” there are many music-related careers I can pursue. Mr. Longwill has given all his students the confidence and support to chase our dreams. I hope one day I can inspire future generations like he has. I don’t know how to begin to thank this amazing leader who has given his students so many opportunities while encouraging us to be ourselves.

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