The Austin Area Jazz Festival is honoring Don Haynes with the Music Legend Award.

Haynes has served as the band director at LBJ High School for the past 39 years and is retiring at the end of this school year.

Mark Terry, the CEO of the Austin Area Jazz Festival, said, “Not many people have the enthusiasm, energy and the love for both music and teaching the way Mr. Haynes does.”

Haynes is being recognized for his significant contributions to the education of generations of young musicians in Austin through decades of award-winning teaching.

Haynes said, “I cannot tell you how much I appreciate all of you for making this past 39 years the most incredible career and experience that anyone could ever hope to have.”

After he moves on from directing “The One and Only” LBJ Band, Haynes said that he is excited about pursuing a second career in motivational speaking and travelling.

For more information on the Austin Area Jazz Festival visit: http://austinareajazzfestival.com/

To see Don Haynes’ video announcement of his retirement visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZ96wFDbJOI&feature=youtu.be