The Howard County Arts Council (HCAC) honored its 2014 Howie Award winners at the 18th Annual Celebration of the Arts on Saturday, March 28, at the Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center, Howard Community College, Columbia. The gala afforded members of Howard County’s arts, education, government and business communities the opportunity to gather to honor individuals and businesses that have made meaningful contributions to the arts in Howard County.
The Howie Awards are presented annually by the HCAC to an Outstanding Artist who has contributed a high level of talent and vision to the artistic life of the community; an Outstanding Arts Educator who has made an exceptional contribution to arts education in Howard County; and an Outstanding Business or Community Supporter that has made a significant impact on the arts in Howard County.
This year’s honoree for Outstanding Artist is Peter BarenBregge. A professional musician who performs on saxophones, flutes and clarinets, he has performed for kings, queens, presidents and millions of music lovers worldwide in concert and opera halls, jazz clubs and international jazz festivals.
Greg English is the 2014 honoree for Outstanding Arts Educator. Currently in his 15th year of teaching, English is the art department chair as well as the teacher development liaison at Reservoir High School. His teaching experiences span all levels, from elementary to high school. He currently teaches advanced level studio classes and advanced placement art history.
The honoree for Outstanding Business Supporter of the Arts is Howard Bank. Recognizing that the arts provide significant economic benefits, personal development and civic pride, Howard Bank invests time, talent and resources in supporting arts organizations and activities. “We believe,” said President and CEO Mary Ann Scully, “the arts are essential for full community life.” Following her example, Howard Bank’s board of directors, management and team members serve in volunteer leadership positions at nonprofits both large and small.
Yong Ku Ahn will be honored posthumously with a special Legacy in the Arts award. The first music director of the Columbia Orchestra, Professor Ahn had a distinguished career as a violinist, conductor and teacher. Born in Wonsan, Korea, on Feb. 18, 1928, he studied at Seoul National University, the Staatliche Hochschule fur Musik in Munich, the Mozarteum Summer Academy in Salzburg, the Akademie fur Musik in Vienna and the Guildhall Music School in London.