Guest Speakers

Many thanks to Joel Rosenblatt, drummer of the band Spyro Gyra, for taking time out of a very busy schedule to talk to our music theory classes at West Islip High School. Joel has played with many great musicians and bands through the years, and spoke to our music theory students about music as a full time profession.

On Thursday, December 6, Mr. Simeone's and Mr. Kaufman's classes had the distinct pleasure of having Mr. William Heller as our guest speaker. Bill Heller, besides being a mainstream keyboard player and music technology guru, is also on the road with the contemporary jazz band "The Rippingtons." He also records with such artists as Eric Marienthal and Craig Chaquico and, when not on the road, might be seen playing with many bands locally.

Mr. Heller took time out of a very busy schedule to come to West Islip High School to be with us. He spoke to our classes on many topics, ranging from music technology to the use of the internet and digital music.

Many thanks for taking time out for us, Mr. Heller.

On Monday, March 18, the students of Mr. Simeone's class and Mr. Kaufman's class were once again treated to a visit by a prominent guest speaker. Mr. Bernard Jones, who is the Chairperson for the West Islip Public Schools Department of Art and Music Education, spoke on the topic of Music Education. Because so many of the students involved in our Music Theory/Technology program will be entering college for Music Education, Mr. Jones spoke on many topics that would be facing these students as they venture out into their respective music endeavors. Mr. Jones addressed such things as college auditions, academic and music requirements, and the overall makeup of what qualities a successful music educator should have.

Thanks for taking the time to talk to us, Mr. Jones!