DAN HAWES
Elementary Band
I am originally from Smithtown, New
York. I began playing the saxophone in 4th grade and
studied the other band and orchestra instruments as a college
student. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in music education and
graduated Cum Laude from the Crane School of Music at Potsdam
University in New York. I attended the Manhattan School of Music on
a full scholarship, earning my Master’s Degree in performance.
While living and performing in Manhattan, I had the opportunity to
play in such venues as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and Symphony
Space.
After college, I
auditioned for and was accepted into the 590th Air Force
Band of the East. I was stationed at McGuire Air Force Base in New
Jersey and had the opportunity to perform all around the world – the
United States, Canada and Europe – as a member of the Concert Band,
Saxophone Quartet, Jazz Band and Rock Band. I recorded with the
band as both a soloist and ensemble member. We performed for quite a
few Presidents, such as Ronald Reagan, George Bush Sr. and Bill
Clinton. I also served during Operation Desert Storm.
During my time as a musician in
the Air Force, I married my college sweetheart, Jen. When my time was up
in the Air Force, I settled down on Long Island, where I taught as an elementary
band director for 15 years in the Lynbrook School District. My West End
Elementary Band performed for various rated competitions. We also recorded
a charity CD for families who were affected by the 9/11 tragedy and were invited
to perform at Lincoln Center and Nassau Coliseum. During that time, my wife
and I began to hike, ice climb and rock climb in New Hampshire’s White
Mountains. We both fell in love with the beauty of New England and decided
to make a move! This is my 4th
year teaching in Pembroke. Over the past two years, my students and
I have thoroughly enjoyed giving concerts and performing at The
Hanover and Independence Malls! I am currently planning more
musical activities to showcase our bands in the surrounding
community. I live in Hanson, with my wife, Jen, and our dog, Max.