Mr. Albee: Saint Paul’s New Music Teacher

Mr. Albee is the new music teacher here at Saint Paul. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there are many unforeseen challenges that have been affecting the music department.

Mr. Albee noted that there is some music equipment that he is unable to use because he still doesn’t have access to it, but overall the transition has been good.

Due to COVID-19, there have been quite a few changes, one of the biggest being that no students are allowed to sing in the school: “the state guidelines feel that there is too much air expressed, even with mask-wearing.” Changes have been made in the course program as well. New training for the students to learn pitches, knowing the difference between a D and F pitch. There’s potential to do band zooms, but the latency of the call greatly affects their quality and timing.

If time allows, the Music Department will potentially hold an event, but they are unsure. Mr. Albee didn’t know all of the band members before he got to Saint Paul, so he is putting out a signup sheet to gauge people’s interest in the program and the different levels of ability. If he is able to gather more people and form a full band Mr. Albee would like to have a spring or end of year concert.

Regarding joining the department, students are able to join the music program by either taking it as a course or by signing up on the signup sheet.

Mr. Albee hopes to “continue the great tradition of music.” He wants to continue to grow the program, giving everyone the ability to play.