Manzi Ready for Challenge at EHS

(NEW EFFINGHAM HIGH SCHOOL BAND DIRECTOR PETER MANZI TALKS WITH EHS BAND BOOSTER MITCH HULSKOTTER AT MONZI'S "MEET AND GREET")

Peter Manzi realizes the success seen in the music programs in Unit 40 schools and is ready to contribute toward continuing that success.

Manzi was recently hired as Effingham High School band director, succeeding Brad Wallace who has joined the staff at the University of Illinois.  He appreciates the growth of the instrumental music program, both in ability and in numbers over the past decade.  Manzi said he wants to take the instrumental program to the next level.

He's had success, turning around a program at Central A&M that was experiencing low participation and the prospect of losing many of those remaining before his arrival.  Instead, the program experienced solid growth and the addition of a jazz band during his years there.

His enthusiasm, though, is one thing that has impressed those who've met him.  Manzi said music is a lifelong pursuit, and that's one reason why it's hard not to be excited about those who want to learn music and performance.

Here's our interview with new EHS Band Director Peter Manzi...