March, 1997 Central Community Debates Issue of Ebonics
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Ruggiero Leads Band with Toughness in Love
By Michael Kelly
Band director Mr. Gary Ruggiero is not the type of teacher who fools around. He has a sensitive side, but he's tough as nails. He doesn't fall for corny excuses, although he's presented with many. He breaks up bickering between students, and helps them solve their problems. But the most important thing is that he gets the job done, by getting the band to perform brilliantly.
The success of the Central band includes topping all Connecticut bands in its division in a recent Tri-State competition.
Mr. Ruggiero began playing the clarinet in the fourth grade and has been a musician ever since. A graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, he has performed at events such as the Barnum and Bailey Circus, and the last two presidential inaugurals. He has been a teacher in Bridgeport for eighteen years, and has taught at Central for the past four years.
Mr. Ruggiero is loved and admired by his students. When asked how he related so well to kids he said, "I genuinely like teenagers, I find them to be energetic, creative, interesting and challenging. I believe the students know that I really care about them and their future."
When asked why he chose teaching as a career he explained, "Teaching music allows for creative expression while offering stability and security. With my summers free, I am able to pursue other aspects of the music profession such as shows and concerts."
Mr. Ruggiero is very enthusiastic about this year's band. "This is the best band in eleven years. The students and staff have worked well together, remaining focused on improving the performance on a weekly basis. In the seven week season traveling with eighty students, there was never a problem with behavior or discipline," he said.
Mr. Ruggiero doesn't give in easily. His class is no joke, and you can't take it just to get a passing grade. Another thing to keep in mind about Mr. Ruggiero is that he's a man of his word. When he promises, he delivers.
At the end of our interview I asked him, "If you could have anything for the band right now what would it be?" Mr. Ruggiero replied, "New band uniforms, more parental support at competitions, and a window in the band room."
