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Board hears proposal for an honors 'Modern Band' course at Greenwich High School
Summary
District arts staff and a GHS teacher outlined a proposed honors Modern Band course to expand contemporary ensemble opportunities and use the high school's recording studio; no action was taken at this meeting.
District arts coordinator James Antonucci introduced a proposal for an honors Modern Band course at Greenwich High School and turned the presentation over to teacher Jason Polis, who outlined course goals, ensemble structure and scheduling.
Why it matters: The course is intended to serve students who already take guitar, electronic music or other arts classes and who want an ensemble experience focused on contemporary pop, rock, hip‑hop and related genres. Polis said the class would emphasize project‑based learning, live performance and use of the school's recording studio. "Students will be expected to collaborate on a body of music and prepare for several performances throughout the year," he said.
Key features: The proposal described a before‑school honors ensemble (7:15–8:25 a.m.), with auditions and an expected complement of about 20 students divided into several bands. Students must be enrolled in a current GHS music class to participate. Supporters said the course would provide career‑relevant and technical skills in addition to ensemble musicianship.
Board action: The item was listed as a discussion item; no formal vote was taken at this meeting. Board members and speakers expressed support; members said they would place the proposal on a future agenda for formal action when staff finalizes the offering and any scheduling or staffing details.
Ending: The board signaled interest in expanding contemporary music options and asked administrators to prepare follow‑up materials for an upcoming meeting.
