Music at Fairfield Prep
The Fairfield Prep Music Program offers a robust selection of courses and clubs for every musician — from the violinist looking to hone his skill in the Orchestra to the drummer who just wants to jam with the Blues Band.
Led by Mr. Dan Horstmann, Prep offers five musical ensembles: Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, String Orchestra, Select Choir, and General Music. These are academic courses where students are in class every day working on techniques and skills required to perform at high level. Their efforts culminate in annual concerts at the Quick Center for the Arts.
Prep students are required to take one year of fine arts, and the vast majority of those who start in the Music Program continue their studies all four years.
Music Competition
Advanced musicians have opportunities to excel beyond the classroom at Fairfield Prep. Prep musicians participate in regional auditions and perform in ensembles at the Connecticut Music Association Western Regional Festivals.
Image: Participants in the Western Regionals Competition in early 2019.
Flexibility
At Prep, students don't have to choose between doing sports, clubs and music. The majority of Prep musicians participate in sports in addition to either an ensemble or a club. Teachers and coaches work with the students so they can participate in all activities that interest them, regardless of schedules.
Image: Select Choir member and football player Spencer Spellane '21 sings the National Anthem in the fall of 2019.
Community Engagement
The Music Program continues the Fairfield Prep tradition of community outreach by participating in a number of annual events. The Jazzuits and Select Choir perform during the annual Shop & Stroll in downtown Fairfield, and since 2018 Fairfield Prep has participated in the annual Anti-Defamation League Concert at the Klein Memorial Auditorium.
Performing at the Quick
Fairfield Prep students perform twice a year at the Quick Center for the Arts, a state-of-the-art concert facility on the Fairfield University campus.