BHHS

At Byram Hills High School, music is much more than an elective class, it is an opportunity for self-expression, collaboration, and creativity. From traditional performance ensembles to music production and theory classes, the music program offers students countless ways to explore who they are and how they communicate through sound.

For many students, music became a defining part of the high school experience. As a junior enrolled in Music Theory, I discovered how understanding structure, harmony, and composition could deepen my appreciation for music and fuel a growing passion for music production. Now, as a senior, I have the opportunity to take more advanced music courses that continue to shape me into a more well-rounded student while allowing me to focus on a specialized area I love.

Leading this inventive and expanding program is Mr. Marc Beja, Director of the Fine Arts Department at Byram Hills. His vision reflects the district’s commitment to the “five Cs” of learning: community, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity. According to Mr. Beja, “The Byram Hills music program so beautifully encompasses the “five Cs” of learning that the District prioritizes: community, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity. Our music students engage in authentic and meaningful musical experiences to create and present work, and to explore themselves, their communities, and the world through creativity, reflection, critical thinking, and collaboration. When students graduate from Byram Hills and our music program, we know they are prepared to continue to use these skills for the rest of their lives in musical and non-musical settings.”

Byram Hills music program sets itself apart with its depth and variety, both during the school day and after the final bell rings. Students can participate in band, orchestra, and chorus, while also exploring classes such as studio music production and composition, music theory, guitar workshop, and theater technology. Beyond coursework, the department supports a wide range of faculty-led and student-led opportunities, including jazz band, jazz choir, a cappella, music tech club, and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. This expansive and inclusive program was recently recognized when Byram Hills was named a 2025 “Best Community for Music Education” by the NAMM Foundation.

Performance and production classes work hand in hand to give students a well-rounded musical education. While many students express themselves through live performance, others thrive behind the scenes–composing, producing, mixing, and capturing sound. Studio music students regularly contribute to live performances and theatrical productions, gaining hands-on experience with real-world applications of music technology. Theater tech students, meanwhile, work with professional-grade lighting and sound equipment, as well as new projection technology made possible through a grant from the Byram Hills Education Foundation.

Throughout the year, students have numerous opportunities to share their work with both the school community and the public. Performances range from Pep Band at football games and Choir Cabaret in the fall to winter concerts, jazz events, and theatrical productions. A highlight of the year is the Districtwide Music Festival, which brings together fifth graders, eighth graders, and high school students for a day of collaboration and performance. Spring events include the annual musical, concerts, jazz showcases, and community performances, culminating with ensemble performances at graduation. Students also participate in NYSSMA festivals and All-State ensembles, and last year, Byram Hills musicians had the unforgettable opportunity to perform publicly at Walt Disney World.

One of the most memorable and exciting opportunities is the Disney trip that occurs every other year. According to Mr. Beja, “The high school music department’s trip last March to Walt Disney World was certainly a highlight for the students and teachers. From last March to the beginning of the school year, the ensembles were working on special repertoire that they got to perform for the public at Disney Springs.

What was so exciting about those performances was that they weren’t just for audiences of our students’ families, friends, and teachers – hundreds of strangers heard the fantastic music our students were making and chose to stop what they were doing to sit in the hot sun and enjoy those performances. The audience responses were so enthusiastic and positive! All three ensembles also got to attend music workshops with Disney teaching artists behind the scenes, learning and recording new arrangements of Disney songs, and collaborating in a shortened period to create something special.”

One of the program’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Music education at Byram Hills begins as early as fifth grade, with all students participating in music through at least eighth grade. Because high school ensembles and extracurricular groups include students from grades nine through twelve, newcomers with varying levels of experience are welcomed and supported. This structure naturally fosters leadership, mentorship, and growth, reinforcing the idea that there is a place for everyone in the Fine Arts- regardless of background or skill level.

According to Mr. Beja, the personal growth students experience through music is just as important as their musical development. Being part of an ensemble or production requires teamwork, focus, problem-solving, and dedication. Each student plays a vital role, and together they create something meaningful for an audience. Music classes also provide an essential outlet which can create a space for creativity, stress relief, self-expression, and belonging during the school day.

Looking ahead, the future of the Byram Hills music program is bright. Participation continues to grow, allowing the department to expand offerings and add additional ensemble periods. With increasing enthusiasm and ongoing support, the Fine Arts at Byram Hills remain a thriving and integral part of the school community.

The Byram Hills music program stands as a cornerstone of creativity, collaboration, and community within the district. Through its diverse offerings, it empowers students to grow not only as musicians, but as confident, thoughtful individuals–prepared to carry these skills with them long after graduation. To learn more about Marc Beja watch this short video on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KX0cpWej0gs