Supporting Performing Arts Education in the New Providence, NJ Schools

2010-2011

Our Fabulous Faculty: Live, in Concert! In this issue Susan Peterson, Music Boosters President

ost of you have seen me have witnessed came from past From the Department Head 2 talking at the annual faculty recitals. concerts about how great From the Superintendent 3 M I have vivid memories of all our our music faculty members are as faculty’s performances in concert: From Mr. Hess both teachers and performers. On 4 Ms. Flynn and Mr. Duke in a scene From Ms. Kirkland October 12th, you’ll get a chance from Neil Simon; Mr. Rodriguez to see for yourself at our biennial From Mr. Fleischman 5 and Mr. Fleishman in a bass duet; faculty recital to be held at 7 pm Mr. Baker playing Baroque From Ms. Passaro in the NPHS auditorium. 6 trumpet; Mrs. Zazzali and her wind From Mr. Niedziejko Our talented faculty members quintet; Mrs. Passaro singing From Mr. Baker 7 completely disprove the old cliché opera; Ms. Kirkland singing a “those who can’t do teach.” This standard and Ms. Starr singing From Mr. Rodriquez 8 newsletter features articles from jazz; Mr. N on sax; Mr. Polci our music and performing arts backing the rock band, with From Ms. Starr 9 faculty about memorable teaching surprise guest, Mr. Vivona the art

From Mr. Duke 10 and performing moments — and teacher! several memorable performances I (Continued on page 13) From Mr. Polci 11 From Mrs. Zazzali

From Ms. Flynn 12 Save the Date:

Drama Dept. Season Tickets 13 Faculty Recital Tuesday, October 12 at 7 p.m. Special points of interest: NP High School Auditorium  Upcoming Events — page 9 Be inspired by the amazing talent and versatility of our faculty!  Support Market Day — page 9  Join NP Music Boosters — page 14 Admission $5 — Proceeds support Susan Iatesta Memorial Scholarship

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A Note from the Department Head of Fine, Performing and Practical Arts Mr. Kenneth Hess elcome back! Our new that will affect our performing arts school year is in full programs. W swing and promises to Money for classroom materials bring rewarding, creative has significantly decreased, access experiences for all our performing to bus transportation for field trips arts students. and performances will be In the past year I have been considerably reduced and jobs pleased to see our marching band have been combined or The New Providence Music take first place in the New Jersey restructured (including that of Boosters newsletter is State Championship, twenty yours truly). As a result, the published annually. elementary students selected for maintenance of our historically regional and all-state level honor outstanding performing arts ensembles, and students of many program will become increasingly Executive Board ages using their musical talents in difficult. Susan Peterson, President community service by performing It is a credit to our school Jamie Peterson, Vice President at the New Providence Senior community and to the Pauline Connolly, Treasurer Citizen Center, for the Rotary understanding of the arts’ Linda Langstaff, Secretary Club, and for a United Way dinner. essential role in a child’s Through the combined efforts education that we have not lost Evelyn Agresti, Membership of Music Boosters and our building performing arts faculty or Stephanie Hern, Market Day Chair PTAs, we brought the Grammy- experienced cuts in our curricular Award winning group ETHEL to program; however, further Mr. Ken Hess, Dept. Head, New Providence to perform for and budgetary strife could very well Fine, Performing & Practical Arts work with our elementary, middle, change the tide, and deprive our and high school students. students of a total and complete These moments were made education. Dr. David M. Miceli, possible by the efforts of our I urge everyone to become a Superintendent of Schools students, the talent and dedication member of the Music Boosters to of our performing arts faculty, and show your support for the www.npmusicboosters.org the support of our parent performing arts, for your school organizations and our school community, and for your children. administration. In keeping with Let’s work together to make this a this year’s newsletter theme, tremendous school year! these moments will be quite memorable for years to come. Please Note: A Music Boosters This is a year of change. Budget membership form is on page 14. If cuts and the first defeat of our you have not yet joined for this school budget in nearly twenty year, please print the form and years have necessitated changes mail it to the address indicated. Page 3

FROM THE DESK OF THE SUPERINTENDENT

elcome back to a new school and model their passion for the per- ney World. What an ex- year! It is always a pleasure forming arts. This event will be held citing opportunity for our W to see our students and staff on October 12 in the high school audi- students. return with the enthusiasm that a new torium. I would like to thank school year brings. Thank you once We are also looking forward to this the New Providence Education Foun- again for preparing your children for year’s fall play, The Love of Three dation for their support of the ele- another rewarding year. This year Oranges, with performances on No- mentary band program by funding a promises to continue the excellence in vember 19 and 20. This play is based grant for both Allen W. Roberts School the Music Education and Performing on an Italian fairy tale that uses stock and Salt Brook School. This grant pro- Arts Department. As our students con- “commedia del arte” characters. Our vided new technology and software to tinue to excel, they will have an op- much anticipated four winter concerts enhance the instructional program. portunity to demonstrate their talent are once again scheduled during the I would also like to congratulate in many of the varied performances month of December. These concerts and thank all of our Music Education over the course of the year. will highlight the various ensembles and Performing Arts staff for their Our High School Marching Band will from each of our four schools. tireless efforts and contributions feature the music of Sweeney Todd, a This spring, we look ahead to the which have benefited our students and musical written by Stephen Sondheim presentation of Bye Bye Birdie for the district. I want to take this opportu- that illustrates the class struggles of high school musical theater production nity to thank our Board of Education, the pre-industrial age and chronicles on March 11, 12 and 13. This show is a the Music Boosters, parents, and com- the story of the “Demon Barber of perennial favorite that examines the munity for their ongoing support of Fleet Street.” We look forward to teenage hysteria that ensues when a our programs. Please continue to visit their performances this fall, and I wish famous rock star comes to town. It is our district website to access addi- them well with their upcoming compe- loosely based on the events surround- tional information and photo galleries titions. ing the popularity of Elvis Presley in from the Music Education and Per- Every two years, the Music Boost- the late 1950s. forming Arts Department. ers host the Faculty Recital fund- The department’s much antici- As we begin a new year, I look for- raiser. This "student favorite" event pated trip destination this year is Or- ward to all of the magical perform- provides an opportunity for our per- lando, Florida. Ensembles from the ances ahead, and wish everyone an forming arts staff and other district choral, band, and orchestral programs exciting and fulfilling year. faculty members to “strut their stuff” have been invited to perform at Dis-

New Providence Department of Music Education and Performing Arts Mission Statement he mission of the New Providence Music Education and Performing Arts Department is to create and maintain a learning environment that provides the highest order of education in all aspects of the performing arts supported by T the school district. We, as a department, firmly believe in the holistic development of each child and affirm that arts education is an integral part of each child’s education. Performing arts education provides a creative, yet structured, outlet for students to express themselves and encourages cultural and artistic awareness. Through performing arts education, students learn not only basic concepts and techniques of performance art forms, but participate in a lifelong enrichment activity promoting collaboration, problem solving, coordination of various levels of higher-level thinking and the pursuit and appreciation of beauty. It is the aim of the department that EVERY student participating in the performing arts program will benefit in some way because:  Performing Arts are FUN and for EVERYONE  Performing Arts help to mold lifelong basic skills  Performing Arts encourage and build commitment and dedication  Performing Arts improve quality of character  Performing Arts encourage and develop critical thinking skills  Cultural awareness and study is critical to our existence in an ever-changing global community  Beauty is critical to society Page 4

My Top Five Months of Practice Yield Magical Moments Ken Hess, AWR Vocal Music Ms. Susan Kirkland, High School Vocal Music hat one goes in the book.” have worn a number of musical been working as a temp in several This is a phrase most teach- hats in my life, so the file of NYC financial firms, auditioning T ers utter at least once a I memorable moments as teacher and performing here and there, year, indicating a “no-one-can- and performer is bursting at the when I had the opportunity to make-this-up moment” that de- seams. audition for the company. serves a place in the hypothetical I would have to say that I love It was so thrilling to get a call- book of the ups and downs in one’s the voice recitals at NPHS and the back for this tour (the callbacks career in teaching. I don’t know if wonderful moments I witness every were in Lincoln Center!!!). I ended many books of this sort have been time the students get up to per- up being cast in the chorus of La written, but there is certainly a form. Of course, music education Bohème. Rehearsing and perform- great deal of source material. is never just about a performance, ing with artists of this caliber was To choose the most memorable but in those few minutes while the an amazing experience. We toured of my memorable teaching mo- student has the stage, the months (mostly bus and truck) for four ments, I gave myself a few parame- of study, practice and hard work months, with over 95 perform- ters to make the selection easier: I result in something magical. ances, and I never once got tired considered only my years in New Sometimes parents will ask me of hearing the same opera night Providence and I focused on the if I get tired playing the piano dur- after night. positive. Both requirements were ing the recitals, but I honestly feel About a year after the tour easy to follow. I have chosen to I have the best seat in the house. ended, I auditioned for La Bohème keep all the people in the following So many times I am moved to at a small theater in the city and anecdotes anonymous, but if you tears during the recitals (I ALWAYS was cast as Mimi, which was thrill- are a former or present AWR stu- keep tissues close by!), knowing ing. I didn’t care that it wasn’t a dent, teacher or parent, you may what some of the students have huge, professional theatre this recognize yourself. Here are, to overcome to be able to perform time and that we would be per- date, my top five teaching mo- for their families and peers. forming with piano instead of an ments in New Providence. I never underestimate how dif- orchestra. It was just such a joy to NUMBER 5 ficult this can be and am so in- be able to sing the role that I had Maori Battle Chant: Each year credibly proud and inspired by pretty much learned by listening to my fifth graders learn this tribal those kids who demonstrate great it for all those months on tour. chant from New Zealand. For any creativity, work ethic, and cour- Being involved in music and the former students who may be read- age!As a performer, I think I would performing arts has opened so ing, it’s the one that goes, have to say that my national tour many doors for me. I can’t imagine “Kamatay, kamatay, kaure kaure; with New York City Opera’s Na- what my life would be like without Upaynay upaynay wite wite.” After tional Company was the most those experiences! learning the song they create and memorable and life changing. I had perform a dance that illustrates the style and mood of the music. Every year I am impressed by the stu- Ways you can support the mission of the dents’ creations, but the first year I New Providence Music Boosters: did the lesson was most memora- ble. A group of five children (two  Become a member — complete and return the membership girls with long hair who designed form on page 14. some impressive “hairography” and three boys who had no inhibitions  Volunteer — help with the Ice Cream Social or Market Days. about moving) created, with very  Attend performances — see coming events on page 9. little direction from me, a complex (Continued on page 12)  Become a Market Day regular customer — see page 9 Page 5

ETHEL Performance Reverberates On Mr. Edward Fleischman, Middle School and High School Orchestras

usic is a career that affords the opportunity for many M memorable experiences. While there are both moments of triumph and disappointment, all are learning experiences, rich with life’s lessons. Happily, I can say that one of my most memorable experiences as a teacher and musician came last year right here at New Providence High School. I am referring to the ETHEL performance and workshops on February 2, 2009. In one amazing day, four gifted musicians came to our schools and managed to touch the lives of almost every music student in our district. to work with these outstanding orchestra students returned to the For me the day was memorable individuals each and every day! classroom, where we performed on many levels, both professional Another happy event for me several selections that we had and personal. ETHEL is a truly was reconnecting with Ralph been preparing for them. unique ensemble, not your average Farris, the group’s violist. In my It was a unique experience for classical string quartet. Even “previous life” in arts our students to be able to play though all of the members are administration I was the music by living composers and Juilliard-trained, they call performance manager at The have these artists coaching and themselves a “post-classical” Juilliard School. There I met Ralph making comments as we quartet, performing music as a young and highly talented performed. After months of composed by the members student. After I left Juilliard to reading through numerous pieces, themselves and by other present- become a teacher and Ralph and visiting ETHEL’s website to day composers. graduated, we lost touch, so this learn more about them, it was To begin with, scheduling an became a great opportunity to gratifying to see the students make event like this requires true reconnect. In the months leading the connection between art and collaboration. Getting a string up to the performance, Ralph was artist, making the abstract quartet to do presentations in emailing me copies of sheet music concrete. three different locations in the that the orchestra was going to Much to my surprise and same day required a multitude of perform as well as mp3 files for delight, after they worked with emails and phone calls between them to listen to. the orchestra, several students in Mr. Hess, myself, Mr. Rodriguez, Finally, the day of the one of our string quartets asked if Susan Peterson, Jamie Peterson, performance and workshop there could be time for a all of the principals in the district, arrived. Of course, it was a coaching. The members of ETHEL and all of the teachers in the spectacular day as all of you know. worked with them on Beethoven’s music department, Mr. Duke I had some idea as to which pieces String Quartet Op. 18, No. 4. This included. they were going to perform, but was probably the first time that It is a testament to what can was blown away by their these students received a chamber occur when talented individuals performance, and their ease with music coaching by a professional work together toward a common the school environment. As string quartet! goal, and I count myself fortunate planned, all of the MS and HS (Continued on page 8) Page 6

“Ah-Ha” A not-so-memorable moment ... Mrs. Krisleah Passaro, SB Vocal Music Mr. Michael Niedziejko, High School Bands

remember the audition so e all have times that we during my youth. He was not able vividly. Sixth grade… Mrs. Iossi’s are particularly proud or to see any of my performances up I music class… lunch time. My W fond of. Those memories until a certain Saturday that stomach is growling. My nerves are give us confidence, help us through season. I was very excited and he shot. I always “knew” I could sing. difficult times and even can inspire knew that I was to have this It was just part of who I was. It was us to persevere through that which feature during the show. Up until my passion. But did anybody else would otherwise be very that day, I had developed the know? We were auditioning for the challenging. This moment, routine and had become very sixth grade girl’s ensemble. however, is not one of those at all. consistent with it … up until that Everybody who was anybody was I attended Brandywine High day. there. School in Wilmington, Delaware. I Well, half-time came and we You never forget that first “Ah- was, as you can imagine, very began to perform our show. The Ha” moment when you finally get involved in the music program in time arrived for me to move into confirmation that what you know to school and, much like the position, so I grabbed be true really is true. You always students of New my mace out of the knew there was something special Providence, spent more ground and set off. in you, something unique. And, time each day in school There was a set of spins finally, someone acknowledges that than out. and preparation for the they see it too. While serving as Junior toss and, lo and behold, I can’t tell you how important it Drum Major of the I lost control of the is for young people to get the Brandywine High School mace and it tumbled on opportunity to participate and Marching Band, I was the ground before I succeed in those activities that they afforded a moment of could even toss it up in love. The children here in New showmanship during our the air! Providence have the opportunity to field show. That moment placed I embarrassedly picked up the nurture and cultivate their musical me and my mace (a cord-wrapped mace and proceeded to conduct talents in a way many students drum major baton) at the tip of a the rest of the show very humbled. throughout the state (and country) triangular form during an impact After the show was over my do not. moment of the show. parents came over and the first Our board of education sponsors I was charged with adding a bit thing my father said was, “I a program which allows the children of flair to the performance by thought you were supposed to to become well-rounded individuals spinning the mace and then tossing throw that thing up in the air.” and to experience great musical it up very high into the air and My father was a very diversity. It is through this diverse then catching it as the band moved straightforward man. He never saw exposure that our students develop forward towards the crowd. It was me toss the mace, let alone catch the gift of tolerance and insight, VERY DRAMATIC for 1987! it like I did for the rest of the which carries them past the purely My father was a chief project season. Whenever I need a reality musical experience and into the engineer for Scott Paper Company check I think back to that day and human experience. for many years and traveled often chuckle. I am proud to be a member of the creative team of musicians we Solid Brass Quintet Coming to NP Schools have here in New Providence. Each one of them has had their “Ah-Ha” Recognized by audiences and critics alike as one of the premier brass ensem- moment, where a teacher took the bles in America, the Solid Brass Quintet will present “How to Listen to Music” to time to nurture their talents and New Providence students on Feb. 28, 2011. This educational program introduces expose them to a wealth of students to brass instruments, presents the basic building blocks of music and provides historical perspectives on the music they play in a way that engages, possibilities. Now, we are lucky entertains, and informs today’s students. Learn more at www.solidbrass.com. (Continued on page 13) Page 7

My Most Memorable Performance Moment Mr. Don Baker, Salt Brook Band

’ve been lucky enough to play Now I should probably explain life. I left the stage and went into in a variety of settings. From a that Prof had cataracts, or at least the hallway where Prof came out I small club with maybe twenty that’s what he told everybody. to talk to me. The conversation people to stadiums with more But it was amazing how he could went like this: than five thousand. Nonetheless see far across the rehearsal room Prof: “You missed that note! We my most memorable performance to say hello to a pretty girl, or worked on that.” was in a recital hall with five give the aforesaid “look” to Mr. Baker: “Prof, I don’t care. people in it, including me. Before somebody not performing up to his The rest was so good all you can I talk about that performance I expectations. complain about is one note.” need to give some background Prof seemed to enjoy Prof: “But you missed it!” information. frustrating me to the point where When I started taking lessons I’d raise my voice, and he would Mr. Baker: “Prof, don’t give me from Professor Fielder at Rutgers, just sit there and smile. There that, you can’t even keep a I think I played, at most, ten notes seemed to be no pleasing him. straight face just talking to me. during my entire first semester. I Eventually I did get to play more You’re smiling!” would start to play and he would in lessons, but if I ever got As Prof walked away, he had almost immediately stop me. He the biggest smile on his face. would play so I could hear what he I think the reason that wanted, question me, ask what I performance is more memorable I often use one was doing and why, what did it than others is that smile from sound like — sometimes even ask of Prof’s quotes, Prof. I knew it was good, but his if I was thinking at all. familiar to all smile was the best confirmation I It was probably the most of his students, could have had. He could never frustrating thing that had ever “excuses lead bring himself to tell his students happened to me. I had always to failure, “good job.” been a pretty good trumpet results lead I still went to see Prof after I player, but he wanted everything to success.” graduated and it wasn’t until perfect, every time. Since his about ten years after I graduated students included some trumpet that he told me how much he greats (Wynton Marsalis, Terence liked our Jazz Ensemble. Prof died Blanchard, and many more), I through eight measures in a row last year and I will miss him would try to do everything he without being stopped and greatly, but I know he lives on a asked. He had no time or patience corrected, I don’t remember it. little in my teaching. Just ask the for excuses or less than the Finally it came time for my last brass players in marching band or absolute best. In fact, I often use recital before graduation. at Salt Brook — I’m never one of his quotes, familiar to all of Prof picked a particularly satisfied, but I do smile proudly his students, “excuses lead to difficult piece and seemed to when they perform well! failure, results lead to success.” enjoy my frustration with my Later, “Prof,” as everybody progress. I don’t think I ever called him, took over as chairman played an entire movement for of Jazz Studies. Prof would come him until I was up on stage in my to Jazz Ensemble rehearsals, and recital. since I played lead trumpet, I Everything we had talked about would get that look from him if and worked on had come out the there were any problems in the best I had ever played it ... except trumpet section. one note. When I finished I knew I had the best performance of my

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ETHEL Mr. Flesichman

(Continued from page 5)

In summary, it was a great day for our music students. The experience was rewarding for them musically, educationally, and socially. I shared with them the planning and organization, so they could learn that those practical skills are always necessary in adult life. To be able to converse with world-class musicians about their life and daily work is a fantastic An ETHEL Quartet member coaches young violinists during a workshop opportunity. sponsored by Music Boosters and New Providence PTAs in February 2010. In case any of you didn’t see it, there was a front page article Express Yourself in the Star-Ledger on Saturday, August 7. The article’s focus was Mr. Jose Rodriguez, Salt Brook and A.W. Roberts Strings on how classical musicians are ow do you improve your mu- ody, or the richness of the harmony, increasing their outreach, and sic making? The old cliche in or how the driving rhythms propel prominently featured the ETHEL H music was always “practice, the music forward with excitement event and several pictures of practice, practice!” This is abso- and awe. Music makers listen and them working with our lutely true; however, to become a study these nuances in music, which outstanding students! versatile and proficient musician one enables them to connect their artis- Finally, thanks to both the has to do more than just practice tic statements with their audience Music Boosters and all of the the fundamentals of their instru- with conviction. PTAs for their enormous ment. You must completely immerse Attending and experiencing many generosity. Without their funds yourself in the study of music cul- performances of different styles and this day would not have been ture in general. genres is a clever way to compre- possible. Music is considered the universal hend the spirit of the style along Just today in class a student language. It can be understood with- with authentic interpretation. It is asked if ETHEL was coming back, out any prerequisites and all you always a good lesson to observe or if something similar is planned need is an open mind to appreciate great performers, peers and col- for the future* — proof positive and understand it. For musicians, leagues play the instrument you that the reverberations from a it’s a bit different because they study. This exposure puts your play- memorable experience resonate must learn the art form of interpre- ing in perspective, and you would be long after the event has ended. tation, and that is something you surprised with how much informa- To learn more about ETHEL, must experience first in order to tion you take in. visit www.ethelcentral.com. learn. Lastly, practice performing in People listen to music in two dif- front of friends, family, teachers, ferent ways: for pleasure and ana- and anyone who is willing to listen. *See page 6 for lytically. The evolving musician al- This is a good icebreaker for learn- news about Solid Brass ways listens both ways, but usually ing how to deal with nervousness Quintet. Some- listens analytically. before and during a performance. thing similar is They listen to how the music is The more you do it, the less nervous planned for interpreted, the phrasing of a mel- you get. Most of all, have fun! the future! Page 9

Musical Memories Upcoming Events Miss Jennifer Starr, Salt Brook and Allen W. Roberts Vocal Music

s I begin my twelfth year because I wouldn’t be allowed to Oct. 12 Faculty Recital here in New Providence be a teacher or drive a car at that 7 pm HS Auditorium A Elementary Schools I think age. All day long, I asked 5 and 6 Oct. 25 AWR Beginner’s Night back to many fond memories of year olds. The ages ran the gamut 7:30 pm AWR Gym teaching our youngest students. from 10 to 83. Little kids have no As part of my memories I also concept of age. It’s wonderful! Oct. 26 SB Beginner’s Night 7:30 pm SB Gym keep all of the notes I receive from Just last Spring I received a my students. Some spend years on message in my AWR mailbox from a Nov. 19 & 20 High School Fall Play the refrigerator, several have made student I have known since he was “The Love of their way into frames that 3 years old. He just finished and Three Oranges” adorn my walls, others have enjoyed performing in our 7:30 pm HS Auditorium been scanned and filed kindergarten concert and sent Dec. 1 MS Winter Concert electronically, and many found me every single word to 7:30 pm HS Auditorium a home in a giant box under my “America the Beautiful” written Dec. 7 AWR Winter Concert desk at Allen W. Roberts School. in black marker (not as easy as it 7:30 pm HS Auditorium That box seems to get fuller by the may seem). I cherish that and I Dec. 9 SB Winter Concert year. I have so many sweet know he was really “into” that song 7:30 pm HS Auditorium memories and the following are and wanted me to know. Dec. 15 HS Holiday Concert just a few… There are so many times per 7:30 pm HS Auditorium [Cue: Dream sequence memory week I am reminded of how lucky I music] am to be in a profession that brings Scene: Year 1 Spring, Grade:1, me and others such joy. I’ll leave Location: Mrs. Coan's classroom at you with one of my refrigerator Salt Brook School. notes which was written by a fourth While seated in a circle with -grade student. I have had it up the class preparing for a Japanese there for about 7 years and I arket Day is the year-round guessing game, I have the distinct cannot imagine ever taking it fundraiser to benefit the feeling of little eyes staring at me down. M New Providence Music Boost- from my right side. I turn to the “Dear Miss Starr, ers. Market Day is an online service gaze and say "Hi!" Over the past four years you that provides nutritious and delicious frozen foods that are delivered di- This sweet seven-year-old girl have opened my eyes to the rectly to New Providence High world of singing and music. It replies, "Miss Starr?" School. Buyers then pick up their was amazing! You were and still Miss Starr: “Yes?” orders in the cafeteria between 5 are my role model for singing. Child: "Are you going to be a and 6 p.m. on the designated deliv- You are a great inspiration.” singer when you grow up?" ery day. It’s that easy! Ten percent Miss Starr: "Believe it or not, I Whenever I see those kind words of every sale goes to the New Provi- am a grown-up and I am a singer!" I know in my heart that I am in the dence Music Boosters. right place and doing the job I was Market Day raised over $1,500 Child: "Oh!" meant to do. last year, and we’d like to increase I love that children sometimes Enjoy your school year, that amount this year. With your see me as one of them. One year I help, we can do it! everyone! recall asking my Kindergarten It’s easy and convenient. Order classes about my age. It happened on-line at www.marketday.com. to be my birthday and I asked every View the great selection of foods — class how old they thought I was. many brands you already use! Some guessed 14, but I explained to Our Account number is #13649 them it had to be a higher number (or enter NP Music Boosters). Page 10

Lessons Learned and a Life Discovered Mr. Craig Duke, Drama Director have been participating in and read or audition for any other wanted to be a part of it. creating theatre since I was a parts. We felt that if we only As luck would have it, and a lot I sophomore in high school and auditioned for the lead roles, our of hard work as well, we were cast I’m now almost fifty years old, so teacher, not wanting to waste our as the title characters: Darin was it’s difficult to recall a single prodigious talents, would have no Rosencrantz and I was Guildenstern. specific moment among so many choice but to cast us as we desired. We had an absolute blast working truly wonderful memories. Well, things didn’t go according on the show, collaborating with the Meeting the girl of my dreams to plan. Neither of us were cast in other cast members and our (my wife Lisa and mother of the show, we had to beg to even be director, running both shows for another dream girl, Natalie!) in a considered for a job on the crew, several performances, and getting a theatre class in London, meeting and we spent a good portion of our glimpse of what a life in the theatre Vanessa Redgrave backstage after junior year hearing rave reviews of might be like. an amazing performance to find she Picnic and wishing we had not acted I will never forget our closing was even more charming, beautiful, like jerks! night performance as I stood and gracious in person, directing Lesson learned. The following onstage with my best friend, the my first college production and year, as seniors, we would not character’s lines coinciding with our receiving glowing reviews and sell- make the same mistake. Our drama own emotions as Rosencrantz and out crowds, or witnessing those teacher, bless her heart, had Guildenstern “vanish” from the many magical transformations of an decided on doing two shows; world of the play, and Darin and I awkward, tentative student into a Hamlet and Tom Stoppard’s concluded our high school years. He confident, self-possessed star on Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are says his line, a single tear stage or in the crew. Dead in a repertory production, poignantly rolling down his cheek, The list goes on and on and which is to say, essentially one cast and his light goes out. I’m alone continues to grow with each passing performs both shows on alternating onstage, not a sound in an audience year and upcoming production. But nights, and these particular shows of 500 people, complete rapt out of necessity I will choose a fit well together because the large silence. I say my final line, the light moment, two actually, that seem to roles in Hamlet are essentially goes out, and for what feels like an define for me what theatre is all minor characters in Rosencrantz eternity—nothing. And then about. and Guildenstern and vice versa. suddenly, finally, applause like a As I mentioned, I was a Needless to say, we read for any gathering wave, washed over us and sophomore in high school when I and every role we could. We I thought to myself, “I’d be happy became involved in the theatre. prepared well for our audition and to spend the rest of my life right Our class did a rather slip-shod, took nothing for granted, this was a here.” student-directed production of The big undertaking and we desperately And that’s just what I did. Crucible, but it was enough for me and my best friend Darin, to get bitten by the acting bug. The following year our drama teacher had chosen Picnic for the main-stage show, and Darin and I were giddy because we knew we were perfect for the two male leads. As seasoned juniors now, we felt confident that no one else could possibly challenge us for the roles of Alan and Hal. So confident in fact, that we refused to even New Beginnings Memories… Mr. Gerald Polci, Middle School Bands Mrs. Celeste Zazzali, AWR Band here are so many moments anyway, bring your chops. It’s a ello, everyone! September along my musical career long blow…” Oh no! is a time for new T that I can think back on that Upon arriving at the rehearsal, I H beginnings and a instantly bring a smile to my face looked at the part and thought, rejuvenation of the academic, and the gratifying sense of “What’s all the fuss?? It’s just half athletic, and artistic experiences accomplishment. The one that notes and quarter notes!” I soon we share with our students. comes to mind goes back to 2006 learned what Dr. O was trying to Through the years, I think these when I was in grad school. warn me about when the shared experiences have been It was my last quarter as a conductor stepped up to the the most gratifying for me as a graduate student at the University podium to start the piece. The teacher. I am beginning my of Cincinnati College-Conservatory beginning was a huge oboe solo! sixteenth year at New of Music. My fellow MuEd buddies Brahms may as well have written Providence, and this year will be had always talked about going on a the piece to be an oboe concerto no different, as we experience camping trip—an idea that I was for the first minute and a half! It new music, diligent individual never fond of. You may know that I was all me. And, oh yeah, nowhere effort, focused rehearsals, and am not a fan of Mother Nature, to breathe!! the joy of performing. especially if you’ve ever been It was finally the day of the around when a creepy-crawler has concert. I logged my time found its way into E-22! practicing the part and I was Don’t get me wrong—I marvel ready. I was obliged to spend the at rarities such as double rainbows afternoon “camping” with the and relish the calm serenity of a MuEd crowd, and excused myself in sunrise while I’m out on a run. But enough time to get back and get I do not like it when Mother Nature ready for the performance. I wore comes indoors!! Well, all of this a fancy pair of black shoes to the was too bad, because the 2006 concert that put me in a great All of this happens during the MuEd Camping Trip was set in mood. I was ready to play my heart course of our school year in the stone for a weekend in April. Just out!! But then (who knows… maybe music department, and I’m happy as I finally resolved to give it a try, it was karma) as I was walking to be one of a group of staff I found out that I conveniently had through the lobby to go back stage members dedicated to bringing a concert that same weekend… those fancy black shoes caused me the very best musical, what a terrible shame!  to slip. I wiped out, and there had educational, and social My name was on the assignment to be at least 20 people waiting to environment to our students. board under principal oboe for get into the auditorium who We, as music teachers, are very Brahms’s Nanïe, a composition for witnessed my catastrophic fall. I fortunate to have parents of chorus and orchestra. “I’m sure I was so embarrassed!! music students who feel as we can sight-read the part, so I won’t After picking myself up, the do: music education plays a vital pick it up ahead of time,” I show had to go on, of course. And role in the development of a thought to myself. BIG MISTAKE! it did! The orchestra sounded child, and it’s the combination of The afternoon of the first amazing, the chorus was glorious, academic, athletic, and artistic rehearsal I noticed a message on and my solo went better than ever! study that makes for a rewarding my cell phone. It was Dr. Ostoich, When the piece was finished the and challenging education. my oboe teacher: “Hi Celeste, it’s conductor nodded at me to stand Luckily, our school administrators Dr. O. I just wanted to give you a up and take a bow. I was glowing! feel the same. I’m looking heads-up about Nanïe. I probably What an experience!! But I forward to another great year should have auditioned for the couldn’t help but think that those with my students and staff, and I part, but I picked you because I 20 people were probably saying, wish you all good luck. thought you’d do a good job. Well, “Wasn’t that the girl who fell?!” Page 12

Top Five Working Mr. Hess Ms. Catherine Flynn, AWR/MS/HS Vocal

(Continued from page 4) concert while the composer lis- ears ago, when I taught early tened in the audience. elementary school, I would st nd dance that was so much fun to NUMBER 2 Y end each of my 1 and 2 watch that this moment is the first Our Principal’s a Pirate: Great grade classes with an “Annie Story.” thing that pops into my mind when- melody, fun text, hysterical gim- It was a lesson in improvisation ever I see these, now college-aged, mick. If a school has a choir with involving a short, often humorous, kids. rhythmic energy and an easy-going anecdote about my sweet dog, NUMBER 4 principal with a good sense of hu- Annie. When I was finished, the The Permission Slip: Several mor, (and last spring we had both), students would then in turn sing years ago I took a group of students this song is a dream! stories of their own. It was a favorite activity for us, as it’s often on a field trip, and one little girl, NUMBER 1 fun to catch a glimpse into our lives whose main strength was not or- Down By the Bay: Most of my outside of the music room, and ganization, missed the deadline for “most memorable” are moments Annie was their favorite character. bringing in the permission slip. Af- that make me laugh, and this one So, there I was, seated in a little ter providing a few more tops the list. One day I student chair with my guitar on my copies of the slip and was teaching a Kinder- knee and 20 little upturned faces leaving messages on a garten class in their eager to hear what their furry friend home answering machine, classroom, a room that had been up to. I began my story by I received a note from her had its own bathroom, singing “Last night, when I got home father the morning of the and we were having a from work…” and one of the little field trip that stated, grand old time singing guys pipes up with… “Oh, where do “[my daughter] has lost “Down by the Bay,” a you work?” Imagine me speechless. all of the permission slips. Why am I goofy song that the young-uns al- One of his classmates responds not shocked? We don’t have a dog, ways love. How goofy? Well, the with, “She works here, stupid.” so excuse #1 is out, and our cat first verse ends with the words By now, I’d caught up with the doesn’t like paper. I give my per- “have you ever seen a moose kiss- situation and after reminding mission for you to take her on the ing a goose?” trip. Upon much reflection, I also student #2 that we don’t say We were preparing for the end- give you permission to bring her “stupid,” I explained that my job of-the-year program and I was using back.” I will never throw that letter was to be here every day and teach the song to practice the concept of away. music to the children in the school. following a conductor. Immediately Student #1: “Oh, I thought you NUMBER 3 before we got to the final line I worked in an office somewhere.” What Does America Look Like?: stopped conducting, the children Me: (Thinking “When would I In the spring of 2002 the 5th and 6th watched intently, and everyone have time for this?”) “Nope, I’m grade chorus commissioned New waited in a breathless silence … here with you guys all day.” Jersey composer Dick Thompson to except for the little boy who had Student #1: “Oh.” (I could tell write a song for the choir. The chil- gone into the bathroom a minute that he still didn’t get it.) dren were generally excited about before. He sang out, at the top of I like to think that to him, our singing a song that had been writ- his lungs, “HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A classroom was a place of such fun ten just for them, but it all came MOOSE KISSING A GOOSE!” and joy that it couldn’t be a place together when Mr. Thompson came The Kindergarten teacher and I where one would come and work. No to the school to work with them. started laughing hysterically, the one likes work. Music is fun! He had a sweet and gentle way with rest of the kids went out of their Yup, I just let him think that. He the kids and they responded by minds, and the lesson was pretty doesn’t need to know everything singing at the top of their game. much over. that happens behind the scenes in “What Does America Look Like?” order to create those 40 minutes of was premiered at the May vocal These all go in “the book.” fun with Ms. Flynn.

Page 13

Faculty in Concert Mrs. Peterson Buy Your Season Tickets Now!

(Continued from page 1)

At the first faculty recital I NPHS Drama Department is pleased to announce the availability of recall ever seeing, Mr. Hess season tickets for the first time ever. For only $25 you can reserve the performed a 20th-century piano best seats in the house, see three exciting new shows, save money, and piece where part of the music was support the amazing performing arts students and programs of New played by opening the lid of the Providence High School. piano and plucking the strings. This year’s faculty recital Our 2010-11 Season Includes Something for Everyone promises many more memorable The Love of Three Oranges November 19 & 20 performances. The evening is a fundraiser for the Susan Iatesta A brand new twist on a classic story of comic love and misadventure, Memorial Scholarship for Music sure to please all ages. Education, given to an NPHS senior pursuing a music education career. Bye Bye Birdie March 11, 12, 13 In the interest of full disclosure, last year’s recipient was my own Get ready to PUT ON A HAPPY FACE as Conrad Birdie and his adoring Emma Peterson, who is studying fans return to take New Providence by storm. The exuberant rock 'n' roll music education at The College of smash hit gets hips swinging again! New Jersey and was very well Coffee Talk! June 10 prepared for this journey by New Providence’s extraordinary faculty. A showcase of the best and brightest talents of the year, plus a few surprises as well!

Your $25 Season Ticket purchase entitles you to:

 Reserve seating for each of this season’s shows (no waiting in Ah-Ha long lines for bad seats!) Mrs. Passaro

(Continued from page 6)  A FREE Program Ad or Announcement for EACH production (over $45 value!) enough to share those moments with our students.  A Concession Coupon for Candy and a Drink at EACH production It’s that time when students step into my music room, with  Program Listing as a Season Ticket Supporter butterflies in their stomachs, put themselves out in uncharted  Our deeply felt appreciation for supporting the performing arts territory, and sing their hearts out. I hope I convey the pride I have in students and programs here at NPHS! them because they are willing to step out on a limb and try. To order your Season Tickets, or for more information, Every once in a while I get the pleasure of being a part of one of please contact the NPHS Drama Dept. those “Ah-Ha” moments. It is truly a treasure which makes everything 908-464-4700 ext. 770 or [email protected] we do worth it. Support Music in Our Schools Join the New Providence Music Boosters 2010-11 Membership

New Providence Music Boosters is an organization comprised of parents and friends whose purpose is to support the New Providence Music Department. Every child in the school system, grades Pre-K–12, benefits from the activities of the NP Music Boosters. Your contributions, through membership, donations, fundraisers such as Market Day, and attendance at the Ice Cream Social, Biennial Faculty Recital and other sponsored events, allow us to supplement the Music Department’s budget. In this time of unprecedented budget cuts, we anticipate the Music and Performing Arts Department will rely on Music Boosters more than ever. Your membership in Music Boosters is a testament to your commitment to keeping music and the performing arts in our curriculum. Music Boosters funds have provided equipment, furnishings and enrichment programs for elementary through high school and have funded six scholarships for graduating seniors, including the Susan Iatesta Memorial Scholarship for Music Education. All of this and more were made possible as a result of the efforts and support of the NP Music Boosters membership. You too, can become a part of this worthwhile organization at a cost of $20.00 per family. We particularly thank those families who made donations in addition to the membership. We invite you to join Music Boosters for 2010-11 by using the form below. Thank you. Susan Peterson, President; Jamie Peterson, Vice President; Pauline Ting-Connolly, Treasurer; Linda Langstaff, Secretary; Evelyn Agresti, Membership; Stephanie Hern, Market Day Chair; and Mr. Ken Hess, Fine, Performing and Practical Arts Department Head Please complete the form below and return it with your check made payable to: New Providence Music Boosters, c/o Evelyn Agresti, 12 Hedden Place, New Providence, N.J. 07974, or return it to the New Providence High School office. IMPORTANT DATES: Faculty Recital, Tuesday, October 12, 2010, 7:00 PM, NPHS Auditorium. Ice Cream Social, Wednesday, March 23, 2011, 6:45 PM, NPHS Auditorium.

YES! I/We want to join the NP Music Boosters! $20.00 Family Membership — 2010-11 year Additional contributions are gratefully accepted! Name(s): ______as you would like them listed in Music Boosters and concert programs. Check here if you would not like your name listed in pro- grams as a Music Boosters member

Street Address:______

Telephone #:______

E-Mail Address (for event notices) ______

Child’s Name:______School______Grade______

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Membership Fee $20.00 Additional Donation ______Total ______

Contact me about volunteering ______Page 15

Tuesday October 12 7:00 PM

Faculty Recital At the NPHS Auditorium

Tickets $5 per person

All proceeds will go toward the Susan Iatesta Music Educator’s scholarship fund.