Mr. Giannopolo grew up in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, where he began playing saxophone at age nine.  He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Westfield State College and a Master of Music Education degree from Boston University.  Mr. G has studied saxophone with Charlie Tokarz, Ted Levine, and Lynn Klock, and conducting with Dr. Karen Lavoie.  Since beginning his teaching career in 2002, Mr. G has served as General Music Teacher and Band Director at Westport Middle School in Westport, Massachusetts; Elementary Band Director for the City of Peabody; and Band Director at the Higgins Middle School.  He is proud to have instituted the city's first Elementary Honors Band, and of his work with the Higgins Bands and Jazz Ensemble, which have earned Silver, Gold, and Platinum ratings in recent years.  Mr. Giannopolo is an active member in the Northeastern District of the Massachusetts Music Educators Association, having served as Band Manager at the Senior District Festival and Coordinator at the Junior District Festival.  An avid performer in both jazz and classical realms, Mr. G is most at home conducting the Higgins Bands and is grateful for the opportunity to work with such talented students as those in Peabody.  Mr. G lives in Swampscott with his daughter Liza Jane, and two cats, Ron and Minerva.  Contact Mr. Giannopolo with any questions about the Higgins Band program. 

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