School in Woodstock. Va.. and started teaching private lessons

School in Woodstock. Va.. and started teaching private lessons in Rappahannock. He took on about 20 students, teaching a wide array if instruments — sax trumpet, trombone. percussion and flute.

When he learned that Rappahannock County High School needed a new band director. Yonkey jumped on the opportunity.

“1 formed a relationship with a number of the parents and faculty and students and chomped at the bit to get over here.* he said.

The people he met in Rappahannock were part of what first attracted him to the county. They are also what he will miss most when he leaves.

“The community support has been incredible.* he said.

And he cannot say enough about his students.

“Consistently a great group of kids.* he said.

The students apparently can return the compliment. Band participation has more than doubled since Yonkey started at the high school.

“I’m just always in amazement at how greatly the kids work for him." said Earn Nelson.

Nelson is a member of the band boosters, a group of parent supporters of the band. Her lOth-grade son plays trumpet in the jazz, concert and marching bands.

She said Yonkey's departure will be a devastating loss for the school.

“I think Fauquier County is getting a tremendous gift of talent.* she said.

Kathryn Treanor. who set up Yonkey s first private lessons in Rappahannock, knew that the conservatory student she brought in to teach was something special.

“He's a natural bom teacher,* she said.

Treanor has been arranging private lessons with Shenandoah Conservatory students for about seven years. She hoped to make it easier for county residents to find musical instruction.

Her two sons played in the Rappahannock band before graduating in 2006. She said Yonkey brought his students to a higher level.

“Kids were excited, kids were motivated, mid by the high standards that he set. kids know what they can achieve.* she said.

E-mail the reporter at mpelkeylStimes papers.com.