My name is John FitzGerald, and I have the pleasure of being your child's choir teacher.  I started my career as an intern at Seymour Middle School in 2016, and I have taught Choir, Band, and Music Production at the High School for the past five years.  This year, Dr. Compton has promoted me to the role of Middle School and High School Choir Teacher.  This year, I am teaching Concert Choir and Music Production 1 at Seymour High School in addition to Choir and Music History at Seymour Middle School.

While a teacher, I continue to work as a professional musician and spent much of my 20s working in the music industry as a bassist, guitarist, and backing vocalist for a pop solo artist, and I still perform at restaurants from time to time.  I've opened up for artists and bands such as Hansen, Sum 41, Aaron Carter, and Jake Miller, to name a few, and I've worked with a few professionals who are now touring with Grammy winners.  All these experiences would not have been possible without a strong foundation in choir.  Aside from my professional life, my hobbies include golf, CrossFit, and watching college football or rugby with my friends and family.

My motto is One Sound, One Team, One Family.  Much of my work this year will be focused on building community amongst all musicians in Seymour.  As a community, we will...

• Develop technically sound, versatile musicians capable of performing a variety of genres.

• Become proficient in music literacy, theory, and ear training and become competent musicians in the process. 

• Perform with enthusiasm and CONFIDENCE.

• Work as a team: We support ourselves and support each other.  Older kids are expected to mentor younger kids.  Everyone brings value to the group.

Please know that change and success will not happen overnight; we have a long process to enjoy.  I look forward to connecting with all of you at upcoming concerts and performances; I'll send out the syllabus next week.   Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Mr. Fitz

SMS/SHS Music Department