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CHS Receives Updates to Band, Orchestra, & Choral Rooms
Band and Orchestra Choral Room Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Clifton, NJ -- Clifton High School’s music department has received a long-overdue upgrade to its Band, Orchestra, and Choral music rooms. Although Clifton High School has been at its Colfax Avenue location since 1962, the music rooms remained unchanged until May 2024, when the school district began renovations using capital reserves—without any increase to taxpayers. The project reached completion in November 2024.
The January 15, 2025, ribbon-cutting celebration began with speeches by Dr. Danny A. Robertozzi, Superintendent of Schools, and Clifton Board of Education President Alan Paris, emphasizing music education's profound impact on students’ lives. Clifton High School Band Director Bryan Stepneski and Choral Director Leo Weismantel then shared the honor of cutting the ribbon to the Orchestra/Choral room.
Renovations included enhanced acoustics—such as new acoustic ceilings—upgraded flooring and risers, the removal of the old stage, new furniture, and improved storage. Weismantel noted that the revamped orchestra room now has enough space for an entire play rehearsal and that each music suite is suitably soundproofed so multiple ensembles can rehearse simultaneously without interfering with one another.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony also featured a special rededication to Robert Morgan, the former Clifton Mustang Band director who led the Showband of the Northeast for 42 years. He continues to direct the Clifton Community Band, which is comprised of musicians of all ages and backgrounds. Mr. Paris rededicated the updated band room to Morgan, unveiling the large plaque mounted outside:
The Robert D. Morgan Band Room
This room is named in honor of Robert D. Morgan, director of the Clifton Mustang band from 1972-2014. For over 40 years, Mr. Morgan devoted his career to the music education of Clifton's children. Through his 4-D's, "Dedication, Desire, Drive, and Discipline" countless students have received more than just music lessons, but life lessons in leadership and success. With its marking style modeled after the "Big Ten" college bands, and its calling card, "Script CHS," The Mustang Band received national and international acclaim under Mr. Morgan's command. His contributions are truly an example of "What I Did for Love."
After the plaque was revealed, Mr. Stepneski cut the ribbon to the newly renovated band room. Attendees were then treated to a performance by the band inside the updated space, with Mr. Morgan stepping in to conduct a few numbers before the evening concluded.
Full Gallery: https://www.clifton.k12.nj.us/Page/5317