Stephanie York-Blue is an alumna of Johnston Middle School and HSPVA (class of
1981). A few highpoints from her HSPVA career:
- Alternate pianist for the 1981 Texas All-State Jazz Ensemble (that is, from the dozens of statewide candidates, she missed “the gig” by only one chair)
- Soloist with HSPVA Jazz Ensemble that was a sensation at the 1981 Wichita (Kansas) Jazz Festival
- Two featured solos on the 1981 Jazz Ensemble album
- Accompanist for Girls Chorus, Beauty Shop Quartet, Young Performers and
- Reflections of Joy (gospel group)
Ms. York-Blue is an alumna of Texas Southern University (Bachelor of Music Education), and recently retired from a remarkable 36-year career at Houston’s MacGregor Elementary School, where she played an integral role in their renowned music magnet program. She displays the HSPVA trait of “never graduating,” currently serving as Music Director for the annual ‘PVA Black History productions.
Stephanie has been an active church musician since age 15, when she became pianist/organist at Bethel IMBC, under the leadership of her father, Marshall York, Sr. (choir director/pianist). She has also served at Windsor Village UMC and Jones Memorial UMC. Stephanie is also an important component of Houston’s professional music community, including:
- Pianist with Conrad Johnson Orchestra
- Music Director/Conductor for Motown and More (Miller Outdoor Theatre)
- Accompanist for Kathy Taylor and the Choraleers and Kathy Taylor and Favor
- Accompanist for blues artist, Ruthie Foster (including tour of Canada)
- Accompanist for gospel artists Lamar Campbell and DeWayne Woods
- Music Director at The Ensemble Theatre, including her popular commissioned work, More Than Christmas
- On Feb. 18, 2024, Stephanie York-Blue received the “Alumni Legacy Award” from HSPVA’s Black Alumni Network.
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