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“It’s a blessing. I think they should have done it, they finally did it and I am thrilled,” said Rob Mathes.
Ahead of the opening of Greenwich High School’s brand new Music Instructional Space and Auditorium (MISA), GHS Alumni and composer Rob Mathes talked about how the space is truly a sight to be seen.
“It looks like a world class, New York arts hall! You walk in and you will not believe it,” said Mathes.
Mathes recently arranged and conducted the music for the concert at Madison Square Garden honoring Pope Francis.
Mr. Mathes was also the orchestrator and conductor of the Broadway production of The Last Ship composed by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sting.
Maths has been involved with the MISA space since the beginning.
“I think I got a call from the head of the group of women who were really saying we have to have a facility. They have a science wing now and the sports are thriving but the kids in the music department need to have a facility. I think it is almost going on 20 years. I remember giving a speech at Town Hall about it in 2000 and then I talked to the RTM a couple of times. But I was one of many people who did this and then it was passed! But then there was the problem with the possible toxic soil and then we thought, “Oh gosh. This is never going to happen.” So the fact that tomorrow it is opening is astonishing. It is incredibly exciting”
The Wind Ensemble, Orchestra and Combined Choruses will perform the finale of the inaugural concert, which was composed by Mathes.
“The name of the song is “Can You Hear Me?” and the idea is that finally they [the students] can be heard, the way they are supposed to be. I’m excited to just enjoy the effort of these wonderful kids,” said Mathes.
“I think we are going to really learn about the beauty of that space for the next 20 years. I hope they take care of it. It is built so beautifully you would think this hall will be standing in 75 years.”
The Greenwich High School Music Instructional Space and Auditorium (MISA) Ribbon Cutting will take place on Wednesday, October 7th, beginning at 7:30 pm.
