The sounds of music have constantly filled the air through the Beverly Hills Intermediate School auditorium. Now, when the lights from the stage come on, the glow that will illuminate the room will be more special than ever before.

Pasadena ISD’s Board of Trustees approved the naming of the auditorium in honor of the school’s late orchestra director, Leigh Ledford. The successful and loved educator lost her battle with ovarian cancer this past November.

It is evident, though, her contributions and caring live on in the hearts of teachers and students.

“Ms. Ledford was dedicated and compassionate,” said Alyta Harrell, Beverly Hills Intermediate principal. “She was the epitome of a master teacher. Her countless hours she gave to the students make her most worthy of this honor.”

Under Ledford’s direction, the Beverly Hills orchestra earned University Interscholastic League sweepstakes trophies for 13 consecutive years. In her career, her students earned more than 200 individual medals at solo and ensemble competitions.

However, Ledford’s dream came true in April 2006 as she and her advanced orchestra were invited to perform at the prestigious Midwest Clinic, a band and orchestra conference held annually in Chicago. It was Ledford’s childhood and professional dream to play at the event. Beverly Hills was the only intermediate school orchestra in the nation to be invited to play
at the Midwest Clinic.

Less than one month after receiving the long-anticipated invitation, Ledford was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Though she fought courageously, Ledford lost her battle with the disease just weeks before her orchestra’s performance.

Ledford’s students pressed on determined to make her proud. After their performance at the Midwest Clinic, the Beverly Hills orchestra received a 10 minute standing ovation.

“These students went through a great deal to reach that level of performing by continuously overcoming challenges as well as the loss of a loved one (Ledford). You could see they were honoring Leigh to their fullest,” said BHI band director George Liverman.

Dedication ceremonies for the auditorium are being planned for a later date. The improvements to the auditorium were funded through the district’s bond program that was approved by voters in Nov. 2004.