Riverhead Music Astounds Albany at NYSSMA Conference Performance

RIVERHEAD, NEW YORK (OCTOBER 2023) — Riverhead High School senior Andrew Young and 2023 graduate Abigail Heck recently took part in a performance alongside Riverhead teachers and community members at the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Summer Conference in Albany, NY. Their act was part of a performance clinic hosted by the No Doubt World Famous Monday Night Band, Riverhead's own community band.

The No Doubt World Famous Monday Night Band was founded in 1946 by Howard Hovey, who at the time was a music teacher in the Riverhead Central School District. Hovey also had a career as a world-renowned tuba player, giving him the skills and expertise to found the band. The band’s first-ever concert was performed on June 10, 1946 at the American Legion Post 273, beginning a decades-long tradition representing Riverhead’s musical talent. The band is currently led by Michael Cordaro.

"Riverhead High School students, along with other students across the East End, often perform with the ensemble,” said Riverhead Central School District Director of Fine and Performing Arts Jason Rottkamp. “This was the ensemble's first performance outside of Long Island since before the COVID pandemic. We are all so proud of the wonderful manner in which the ensemble represented the Riverhead community.”

This summer’s performance was part of a session hosted by the New York State Band Directors Association (NYSBDA). Riverhead Central School District music teachers Meghan Kelly, Alicia Greenrose and Joseph Randazzo joined the students and the band in their performance, each playing a different instrument and passionately displaying their commitment to the District’s musical excellence.

The performance was an incredible display of the talent and technique held by Riverhead students and teachers. The District is extremely proud of the students for engaging with their community and state through their passion and appreciation for the arts. In addition, the performance granted students the opportunity to bond and work together with their teachers and community outside of the classroom.

For more information about the Riverhead Central School District, please visit the District’s website at www.riverhead.net. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/riverheadCSD. #BlueWavesPride.