Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School Recognized For Exemplary Music Program

Bethesda-Chevy Chase (B-CC) High School’s music department has about 400 students participating in a variety of music classes, but their reach spans much further than that. To have students learn and get exposed to music programs early on, the high school has strong connections with the elementary and middle cluster schools that feed into them. As a way to build community and fundraise, the school hosts an annual musical cabaret that features student and staff performances from the cluster schools.

The school has three bands, three orchestras, jazz and percussion ensembles, two choirs, AP and IB Music, guitar, piano and music technology classes. They are fortunate to have four teachers, Marshall White, Patrick Fowler, Daniel Janis and Lisa Itkin, dedicated to the music program where they strive to meet all students at their level and unlock their passion and excitement for the value of music. Some students are just learning how to play piano while others have perfected their craft over the years. 

“Being a part of BCC’s chamber choir has given me many wonderful opportunities,” said Sophia Ecker, a junior, who was recently selected for the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) 2025 Eastern Division Honors Ensembles. “I was selected to Junior All State my freshman year and continued on to Senior All State sophomore and junior years. I am grateful to Ms. Itkin for nominating me for NAfME All Eastern Mixed Chorus this year! I am excited to represent B-CC and Montgomery County at this event.” 

The Eastern Division Honors Ensembles are composed of 600 students from 10 states that scored the highest in their state for their respective All-State festivals (mixed choir, treble choir, orchestra, concert band, modern band and jazz band). 

Most recently, B-CC’s music department received the Exemplary Music Program Award from the Maryland Music Educators Association, which recognizes outstanding music programs. “This award not only speaks to the music program at B-CC, but also speaks to the continued strength of all music programs at MCPS,” said Phil Barnes, coordinator of instrumental music & theatre.