Beautiful Music in Full Bloom at the Spring Band Concert

At the Spring Band Concert, our Middle and Upper School bands and ensembles put on a beautiful performance for all in attendance, playing music from a wide range of artists and genres. From classic jazz standards by George Gershwin and Duke Ellington to a Michael Jackson medley arranged by alumni Justin Phillips ’20, there was something for every musical taste in the audience.

The concert was also an opportunity to recognize our students with awards for their exceptional dedication to music at Rutgers Prep.

The Band Director’s Award
Matthew Telyczka ’24 and Paige Lake ’24
Presented annually to an outstanding senior band student who demonstrates dedication, loyalty, character, discipline, and outstanding musicianship in the band program.

The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award
Jack Storipan ’24
Presented annually to a senior band student in honor of outstanding jazz musicianship throughout their high school years.

The John Philip Sousa Award
Xunzhe “Victor” Zhang ’24
Presented annually to a senior band student to recognize superior musicianship, leadership, dependability, loyalty, cooperation, and outstanding dedication.

The Kyle Sieb Band Prize
Maddox Chu ’26
Presented annually to an Upper Schooler for their high level of involvement in the band and the music community at Rutgers Prep as well as their great dedication to the art of music overall. Donna and Mark Sieb established the prize in honor of their son Kyle and his wonderful experience with music and the band program at RPS.

Among the memorable performances that evening was a song that didn't appear on the evening's program. A group of Rutgers Prep alumni returned to campus for a surprise performance in honor of Lisa Peterson, our Director of Bands, ahead of her retirement at the end of the school year.

For their tribute to Mrs. Peterson at her final concert at RPS, the group played a cover of Aerosmith's "Dream On," an apt choice for a teacher who has helped countless young musicians at our School "dream until their dreams come true." 

We are so thankful for everything Mrs. Peterson has done for our School for nearly thirty-five years, and she will be greatly missed. 

Please enjoy video and photo highlights from the night.