Frank Arcari
ArcariFrank@gmail.com
Education
Westminster Choir College of Rider University Princeton, NJ
Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Education
Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Master of Science in Brain Research
- Concentration: Learning and Teaching
Teaching Experience
2003 - 2021 High School Choral Director, Norwalk Public Schools, Norwalk, CT
- Built a choral program to encompass a wide variety of Choral literature for five different performing groups (232 students) with emphasis on vocal pedagogy, music reading, musical line and structure, creative and high level thinking, 4MAT learning styles, listening, compare/contrast and periods of music.
- Implemented Group Vocal Technique (G.V.T.) system throughout warm-ups and rehearsal practice.
- Created lesson plans addressing students’ Personal Learning Profile (P.L.P), focused on Metacognition and both input and output cognitive assets.
- Participated and contributed in Regional, State and National music festivals.
- Established and taught AP Music Theory.
- Created, directed and put into operation a successful and robust Drama club and Music Theater program.
- Wrote the Curriculum and implemented the IB Music program.
2002 - 2003 Music Teacher: Thomaston High School & Center School, Thomaston, CT
- Prepared and conducted three choirs.
- Organized and led the High School and Jr. High chorus trip to Philadelphia.
- Advised and helped establish a “Music Booster” club.
- Created and taught lesson plans for grades 4-12 with a focus on creative and higher level thinking, solfeggio ear training, movement, and guided listening.
1999 - 2002 Music Teacher: Dickerson Elementary, Chester, NJ
- Created and put into operation a K-8 music curriculum.
- Taught lesson plans including exercises in improvisation, listening, composing, music reading, Orff instruments and singing.
- Applied elements of Kodaly, Dalcroze, and Orff lessons.
- Prepared and conducted school concerts.
Certifications
- Connecticut Professional Educator Certificate
- IB Level One certification
- New Jersey Professional Educator Certificate
- Bernice McCarthy’s 4MAT learning styles system
Awards/ Organizations
- Norwalk B.O.E. Certificate of Excellence
- NAfME finalist for Music Educator of the year (2019)
- Who’s Who among Educators in America
- Tenure in Norwalk Public Schools
- Tenure in Chester Public Schools
- Who’s Who among College Students in America
- 1994 - present NEfMA (MENC)
- 1994 - present ACDA
- 2004 - present NEMFA
Positions Held
- Drama Club Director and Adviser (Brien McMahon High School)
- TriM Honor Society Adviser
- Host of the New England Music Festival 2017
- CMEA All State Chorus Chair
- CMEA Western Region Chorus Chair
- CT ACDA Board Member (R&S Men and Boy Choir Chair)
- President of Westminster Choir College Class of 1998