Prior to becoming the band director at the Glen Urquhart School (GUS) in Beverly, Ray Novak spent 35 years as the curriculum coordinator of the music department and the band director at Beverly High School. This year, he is celebrating his 40th year of sharing his passion for music with his students.
“I love the kids’ energy, their enthusiasm, and their willingness to learn,” says Novak about his favorite part about leading the band at GUS.
Novak, who plays 11 instruments, left Beverly High School five years ago but he wasn’t ready to retire yet; he wanted to both continue practicing and teaching music, but at his own pace. When he isn’t at GUS, Novak can be found giving private lessons to students ranging in ages from elementary school to college level or directing the band at nearby Endicott College. Additionally, Novak manages and plays in his own band, Horizon & the Horns, which was formed in 1973 and includes former students and Novak’s daughter Kelly.
Over his 40-year career, Novak has been “lauded as an exemplary band director, much admired for his infectious energy,” and many students, including former GUS head of school Raymond Nance, who takes piano lessons with Novak, feel privileged to be learning from one of the best. In honor of this career milestone, GUS has asked Novak to share “a few of his favorite things.”
Favorite musical performances at GUS: “Solstice celebration and May Day, when the band marches through the streets of Beverly while students deliver May Day baskets to neighbors,” Novak says. “I was a marching band director for 35 years and believe me, it’s not easy to march and play music at the same time. I’m amazed by GUS students being able to this at such a young age.”
Favorite instrument: “The accordion, because it was the first instrument I learned to play, but the piano is a close second,” says Novak, who learned to play of the 11 instruments in high school and other six in college.
Starting this January, GUS’ band for beginners, which admits students in fifth through eighth grade, and potentially fourth grade (if the student has had previous lessons), starts up and Novak encourages students to sign up and give it a try!
For more information, contact Ray Novak at rnovak@gus.org