​Roosevelt High School's Director of Music Gregg Abe has been inducted into the prestigious Bandworld Legion of Honor along with six other band directors from across the U.S. this year. He is the eighth band director from Hawaii to receive the award since its inception in 1989.

"Music and the arts are important components of our students' educational experience, and we are honored to have dedicated band directors like Mr. Abe who instill a passion and appreciation for music," said Interim Superintendent Keith Hayashi. "Congratulations to Mr. Abe and the Roosevelt community on this well-deserved recognition."

Abe has taught at Roosevelt High for the majority of his 32-year career and directs the school's marching band, concert band, symphonic band, jazz ensemble, percussion ensemble and symphony orchestra. Under his direction, the school's band has been recognized nationally including being nominated for the Sudler Flag in 2005, an award that internationally recognizes high school bands for excellence.

"The most important factor that has shaped my career is my students. I'm still learning about my profession and I discover so much from them – their successes and mistakes," said Abe. "I listen to what they have to say and structure my curriculum at times around them in order to bridge the communication gap."

Additionally, Abe has been awarded the Hawaii Music Awards High School Music Educator of the Year and Time Warner Outstanding Educator. Abe earned his Bachelor of Education from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He has also done extensive studies at Brigham Young University and Vandercook College of Music.

The Bandworld Legion of Honor was established to honor band directors nationwide. Recipients have taught for at least 15 years, have maintained a high quality concert band program, and have contributed significantly to the profession through dedication to bands and band music.