Matt Miller & Lauren Cullen

Staff Writers

Introducing Mr. Arsenault, the new music teacher. He recently transferred from Blanchard Middle School. He will be teaching a myriad of courses this year. This reporter was able to sit down and chat with Mr. Arsenault regarding his teaching career as well as some interests.

Q: What inspired you to become a teacher?

A: I had always liked working as a teacher, even when I was in high school as a musician. I gravitated towards the leadership roles and teaching roles with other students. I always enjoyed working with kids in all different capacities.

Q: Let’s talk about your background. How long were you at Blanchard? What classes did you teach?

A: I was at Blanchard and Stony Brook for six years. I taught all bands, classes and ensembles such as concert band and jazz band.

Q: Why did you leave Blanchard?

A: The superintendent of schools created this position at the high school and they transferred me. But, this was a work order as well.

Q: Is teaching high school music more appealing?

A: Professionally, it had nothing to do with music satisfaction. I had a great amount of satisfaction at the middle school. Many assumed that it was sort of a promotion. But, it is certainly a great honor. But it is more so a part of our departmental growth.

Q: What courses are you teaching this year? Which ones are you excited about? Why?

A: I’m teaching Concert Band, Advanced Songwriting, Songwriting, Introduction to Percussion, Sound System Design, Lyric writing and WA jazz band. I’m excited about all of them. In particular, Lyric Writing and Advanced Songwriting, as it’s been a chance for me to meet students outside of the WA band programs.   

Q: In addition to your interest in music, do you have any other passions or interests?

A: I have two children at home. They do take up a lot of time and I love them. I have a newfound interest in cycling. That’s something new for this year. Mr. Culver inspired me to pursue this. I enjoy playing golf, although I did not play a single hole this year. But regardless, I still enjoy it.

Q: What sort of music do you enjoy in particular?

A: I have a really wide mix of music. I listen to a lot of jazz when I’m on my own. If I have a radio station on, it is usually a classical station. With my kids, we listen to pop music and contemporary. I play in a wedding band, so we play a lot of contemporary music.

Q: Here is sort of a quirky question. What sort of music do you listen to when arriving at WA?

A: Usually, I’m listening to NPR. I don’t know if it’s because I’m listening to music all the time. Almost always NPR. I don’t listen to music in the car due to hearing it all day or the fact that my stereo system being worn out.