About Us

The history of the New Britain High School Music Department is both rich and vibrant. The instrumental and vocal departments value traditions while upholding the highest of standards.

One of the most recognizable ensembles from the music department is the award winning ‘Golden Hurricane’ Marching Band. Currently celebrating its 89th season, the band first took the field in 1935, and switched to its high-step marching—modeled after the University of Michigan—in 1955. Several of the ‘Golden Hurricane’s’ most notable performances include: Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Carter, as well as First Lady Laura Bush’s visits to CT, several New York Giants’ games; and in Washington D.C. on the steps of the Capitol Building, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Green of the White House. In 1987 Disney named the band one of the top 10 high school bands in the United States and gave the band an open invitation to perform any time in the future at the Magic Kingdom.

The advanced orchestra performs at numerous in-school-events, out-of-district and out-of-state festivals, as well as frequently participating in CCSU’s Lydian Festival. The orchestra program celebrates a long tradition of excellence. It continues to draw crowds and participation through its performance of a wide-range of literature from the classics to modern popular styles, serving as an important link to NBHS’ cultural diversity.

Norman Elia established the Madrigal Singers—the vocal department’s premier ensemble—in the mid-1970’s. For over 40 years, this select group continues to perform for numerous events and organizations across Connecticut during the Holiday Season. In addition to local performances, the group routinely receives recognition and awards from competitions and festivals in Myrtle Beach, Toronto, Philadelphia, Anaheim, and Virginia Beach. International recognitions include Choral Festivals in England, Germany and Poland.