“Music is a more potent instrument for education than any other.”
MUSIC
PLATO
Listen to recent beats from Music Productions students!
Music Curriculum
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Classical and contemporary repertoire development with opportunities for solo performances, regional competitions, and collaborative concerts with community musicians.
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Dynamic program combining musical excellence with precision drill, competing at state and regional levels while building school spirit and community pride.
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Comprehensive program covering traditional and contemporary jazz styles, improvisation, ensemble performance, and music theory.
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George Stevens Academy has been the hub of steelband activity in coastal Maine since 1994, when Carl Chase started the first steelband class. Since then, the program has grown: high school students take steelband classes during the day and can also participate in the after school program, Steel Revolution. Youngsters grades 3-8 can join Soul Surfers, a youth program. Adults can take a beginner class through GSA, which will get them ready to join the iconic "pandance" band Flash!, who also practice on campus. This network of bands sends GSA students out on the road, performing in schools, opera houses, festivals, and dances near and far.
Whether it's the big "panorama" stage of New York City, or our local town park for a Monday night dance, this infectious music touches everyone who hears it. GSA's steelband program is one of the most distinguished of its kind, and recognized globally for its caliber, commitment to community, and fun!
The program is directed by Martin Conte, an English teacher and GSA graduate.
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Hands-on training in recording techniques, mixing, mastering, and sound engineering using professional-grade equipment and industry-standard software.
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Creative storytelling through film, including music video production, documentary work, and multimedia projects that combine visual and audio elements.
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Digital music creation, songwriting, and arrangement using modern software platforms and electronic instruments.
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Regular recitals, concerts, and community performances that showcase student growth and provide real-world experience in professional settings.
2024/2025 Music Events
The GSA Marching Band leads the Annual Blue Hill Memorial Parade. (2025)
GSA musicians perform outside of the Academy House, including a drummer, a violinist, a double bass player, and a guitarist.
Steel Revolution, the GSA after-school pan group, performs at Blue Hill Consolidated's Winter Carnival in 2025.
Members of the GSA Marching Band in he 2025 Memorial Day Parade.
Martin Conte, Director of Steel Band Programs, shows future students a steel pan drum.
Eddie Crownover, GSA Honors Jazz Combo member & drummer, stands next to Grammy winner and drummer, Quentin Baxter, after performing at the Deer Isle Jazz Fest. (2025)
The GSA Jazz Honors Combo performs at the 2025 Deer Isle Jazz Festival.
Martin Conte, Director of Steel Pan Programs, inspires a future pan player.
Members of the GSA Jazz Honors Combo pose with performers from the Deer Isle Jazz Festival. (2025)
Steel Revolution, the after-school pan group at GSA, performs for middle school students at the Middle School Open House in 2025.
Chef Lu performs at the 2025 Annual GSA Spring Concert in an authentic costume.
Steel Revolution, the GSA after-school pan group, performs at Stonington Opera House.
Band Director, Phelan Gallagher, directs the GSA Band in the 2025 Spring Concert.
Musicians at the 2025 Maine State Jazz Competition with Director, Phelan Gallagher.