For a long time, one of the strengths of Middlesex has been the music department, which definitely includes the choruses. This school has seen many fantastic choral teachers cross its path. But Mr. O'Donnell has to be one of the strongest music teachers Middlesex has seen. For this reason and partially because music is a big hobby of mine, I thought it would be great to sit down and talk with my chorus teacher, Mr. O'Donnell.

Charlie: Mr. O'Donnell, how long have you been teaching for? How many of those years have been at Middlesex?

Mr. O'Donnell: I have been teaching for 29 years, and it is my 28 th year at Middlesex.

Ch: When did you first start singing?

Mr. O'Donnell: I really first started singing when I was about seven in a church choir. That year was a big year for me because it was when I first started to really enjoy singing and get into life musically. At Christmas that year, I sang my first solo ever, and it was “Silent Night.”

Ch: During your childhood, did you see yourself doing something musical as an adult?

Mr. O'Donnell: That's a very interesting question. As a kid, music and sports were two of the most important things in my life, so it seemed logical to do one of those as an adult. But my father was a big businessman, so I seemed destined to follow in his footsteps. So, around college time, I was all set to major in business administration. However, at the last minute, a close friend made me realize that I should be doing what I had loved to do when I was younger, which was music and sports. Because of this, with less than a week before I was going to head off to college, I met with my music teacher's teacher, auditioned on the spot, and ended up majoring in music.

Ch: Who is your favorite band/artist?

Mr. O'Donnell: The answer would have to be Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. I just love the excitement and relevancy of his music.

Ch: Are you enjoying the chance to have your students sing and learn about patriotic music?

Mr. O'Donnell: Yes I am. It's very important and relevant to what's going on today, and it reminds us to never take our freedom for granted.

Ch: What has been your favorite part of teaching middle school chorus?

Mr. O'Donnell: Definitely the concerts. There's nothing like the excitement of performing live!