Music

Vision Statement

The Music Department’s philosophy centers on five core areas—creativity, choice, career/college readiness, technology, and community involvement. We inspire imagination and artistic expression while building essential musicianship skills, offering diverse ensembles, activities, and courses that let students pursue their musical interests. Our program develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and perspective-taking to prepare students for future success, and integrates current technology to enrich learning in a dynamic environment. Beginning in elementary school, students share their music at community events, fostering connections, social awareness, and experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

MEET OUR FACULTY

Mr. Michael Barbieri (wRMS)

Mr. Barbieri is a music teacher at the Westwood Regional Middle School, where he teaches band and choir to students in grades six through eight. He earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from The College of New Jersey and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University. With over a decade of experience teaching band, choir, and general music in public schools, Mr. Barbieri is dedicated to helping students develop their musical skills and confidence. His goal is to equip students with the tools to play instruments, sing, read music, and perform with pride. Mr. Barbieri strives to create a classroom environment where all students feel supported as they learn and grow through music. In his free time, he enjoys traveling with his wife, trail running in the woods, and reading a good book. Now entering his eighth year in the Westwood Regional School District, Mr. Barbieri is excited to continue sharing his passion for music with the students and community of Westwood Regional Middle School.

Mr. Alexander DouthaT (Berkeley & brookside)

Mr. Alex Douthat is excited to be returning to Westwood for his third year teaching Instrumental Music at Berkeley and Brookside elementary schools! Mr. Douthat holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Rutgers University, where he graduated in 2019. Before coming to Westwood, he worked as a music teacher in Franklin Township, and in Norwood. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Douthat is an active music educator and performing musician. He plays locally in musicals and parades, is the drummer for the Anna Felice band, and has been a performer on the NY Giants Drumline since their 2019 season. Mr. Douthat is also a drumline instructor with the Fair Lawn HS marching band, and with the 7th Regiment Drum & Bugle corps from Connecticut. Mr. Douthat lives in Maywood, NJ with his fiancee Jackie and his dog Remo. When he’s not teaching or drumming, he enjoys gaming on his Switch and PS5, cooking (tacos are his favorite), and traveling to new places with friends and family.

Mr. Joseph Fritz (WRHS)

Mr. Fritz is the High School Choral Director at Westwood Regional High School. He teaches Concert Choir, and Chamber Singers. He also serves as the Vocal Director for the Spring Musical, the Advisor for the Tri-M Honor Society, and is the Assistant Director for the Marching Band. Click here to view his faculty website.

Ms. Hannah Kim (GEORGE & WASHINGTON)

Ms. Kim teaches Vocal & General Music at George and Washington Elementary Schools. Bio and photo coming soon!

Mr. Michael Lipnick (GEORGE & WASHINGTON)

Mr. Lipnick is an Elementary Music Teacher at Washington and Jessie F George School, instructing 4th and 5th grade instrumental music, as well as 3rd grade recorders. Mr. Lipnick graduated from Virginia Tech where he studied Music Education as well as Music Technology/Production. GO HOKIES!!! Mr. Lipnick was the principal euphonium player of the Symphonic Wind Ensemble for 2 years at Virginia Tech. The ensemble has played at many prestigious locations including that of the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall. Mr. Lipnick also spent time working at the School of Rock in Chatham as an instructor and show director. Outside of teaching, Mr. Lipnick is a father of two beautiful children, Marley and Miles. He loves soccer, being outdoors with his family, and animals.

Ms. Bridget Maresca (BERKELEY & BROOKSIDE)

Bridget Maresca teaches K–5 General Music and directs the 4th and 5th Grade Choirs at Berkeley and Brookside Elementary Schools. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a concentration in classical voice from William Paterson University. From an early age, she has been immersed in choirs and theatre, which shaped her passion for performance and inspired her career in music education. In addition to teaching, Bridget has performed extensively as a classical and musical theatre vocalist and continues to share her love of singing through both solo and ensemble work. Her teaching philosophy centers on creating a joyful, inclusive environment where students can explore music through singing, rhythm, and movement while making connections to other subjects and the world around them. She hopes to instill in her students a lifelong love and appreciation of music.

Mr. Daniel Pena (WRHS)

Mr. Pena the Band Director at Westwood High School. He teaches Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Music Theory, and Music Technology. He directs the Marching Band, the Pit Orchestra for the Spring Musical, and also serves as the Audio/Visual Coordinator at the high school Click here to view his faculty website.

Mrs. Amy Peterson (WRMS)

Mrs. Peterson teaches General Music and Band at Westwood Regional Middle School. Bio and photo coming soon!

Mrs. Jasmin Yoo (WRMS)

Ms. Jasmin Yoo is the Choir Director and General Music teacher at Westwood Regional Middle School. She also conducts the select choir, Cardinal Chorus, and is the Vocal Director for JPAC's Spring Musical. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University, and her Master of Arts from Teachers College - Columbia University. For Ms. Yoo, teaching music is a lifelong passion rooted in the belief that music has the power to change lives!

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