Winter music fills the air

Jingle bells were ringing in the Emerson Junior-Senior High School auditorium as elementary students performed in the annual winter concert. The beginner band, concert band and symphonic band from Patrick M. Villano School each played three songs. Among the tunes were “Jingle Bells,” “A Christmas Sleigh Ride” and “Skysplitter Fanfare”. New band director, Joe Gibbs, led the performances on December 14, 2023.

“I LOVE it,” Gibbs exclaimed. “Becoming the band teacher was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I am so incredibly thankful that I had this opportunity. Band has had my heart since I started it in the fourth grade.”

Last year, Gibbs was the choral director. When former band director, Andre Baruch, took a job in another district, the position opened.

“I did not choose it per se, but I accepted the offer after talking with trusted family, friends, and mentors,” Gibbs explained. “I chose this position as my strengths aligned closely with what is required to be an instrumental music teacher. I had experience playing all the instruments, I have the drive and passion to run a program, and I have the knowledge of programming to put on a memorable production.”

The move surprised some students at first, but now they’re used to the new routines.

“I think Mr. Gibbs brought a lot of new enthusiasm to this band,” says Nicholas Benvenuto, a fifth grader, who plays in the concert band.

Jazz band rehearsals are coming in January, and Gibbs is preparing for the student auditions.

With Gibbs conducting the band, there was a need for a new choral director. Emerson School District hired Allison Beckley to fill that spot. She conducted the fifth and sixth grade chorus at the winter concert.