We have a tradition of excellence in our performances and contest participation. Our fine orchestras consistently earn sweepstakes at UIL Concert and Sightreading Evaluation. The Austin Academy program offers five different levels of orchestra from Beginning to Honors. There is a place for every student who wants to be involved. In addition, there are five music enrichment teachers who are available to assist students on an individual basis. The directors, Mrs. Sara Howell and Ms. Angelene Shultz, strive to help each student reach his/her musical potential.
"Where words fail, music speaks." ~Hans Christian Anderson
Sara Howell began her Cello studies with Jean Schneider Goberman at the age of seven. In addition to her private studies, Ms. Howell attended the School for Strings and later The Juilliard School Pre-College Division.
Mrs. Howell moved to Texas to attend Southern Methodist University, where she received both her Bachelor and Master degrees in Music Theory. While at SMU, she studied privately with Christopher Adkins and Ko Iwasaki. Mrs. Howell was a member of the Irving Symphony Orchestra for 21 years. She is a member of Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) and Texas Orchestra Directors Association (TODA).
Angelene Shultz
Assistant Director
Angelene Shultz began learning the violin in the 4th grade at Kimberlin Academy and continued playing at Austin Academy and Garland High School, also studying privately with Margaret-Mary Hunter. After graduating valedictorian from Garland High School, with the International Baccalaureate diploma and the Performing Arts Endorsement, she continued her musical studies, receiving a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baylor University, where she studied with Dr. Bruce Berg, and a Master of Music degree in violin performance from the University of North Texas, where she studied with Philip Lewis.
Ms. Shultz has performed with the Allen Philharmonic and New Life Symphony orchestras and taught private violin and viola lessons in the Garland schools for ten years. She is active in the music and children’s ministries at the First Baptist Church of Garland. She is also a member of Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA).
As a benefit of the GISD Bond agreement, AAE was awarded a face lift and expansion to our Orchestra room. Students and faculty enjoy the new facility by being able to spread out and play their instruments.
