Long-standing music school welcomes all

Music has the power to be both a safe harbor and an encouraging wind.

The Brookhaven Art & Music organization, a 501 (c)(3), and the Brookhaven Youth Orchestra were founded by music teacher and longtime Bellport resident, Phil Gelfer, in 1995.

Offering music and art programs for students in K-12, Gelfer estimates hundreds of students coming to BAM in its 31 years. A local community-based organization servicing students throughout Suffolk County, in addition to Bellport students, BAM has had local members from Bayport and Sayville and as far away as Farmingdale or Sag Harbor.

BAM employs over 20 educators, staff, and assistants who are all NYS-certified K-12, holding both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Over 35 former members are now teaching music on Long Island and throughout the tri-state area. BAM consistently donates instruments and music to students in need, as well as coaching sessions for both county and state competitions.

Currently, BAM is running a four-week music camp consisting of two levels of band and two levels of orchestra, both in the fall/winter and spring/summer season.

“The organization prides itself on providing scholarships, instruments, and professional instruction for all students at all levels ranging in age from 10 through 18, with two years of experience recommended,” said Gelfer.

The proud father of three boys who attended South Country School District, two of who became music teachers in Farmingdale and Syosset, Gelfer said that he was “saddened” by the recent budgetary issues the district faced this year and its impact on the music program.

“I am offering scholarship opportunities for dedicated musicians to continue their studies under the excellent leadership of our dedicated music directors, all of who are New York State-certified music teachers and retired music teachers with impeccable skills and experience. These are difficult times,” said Gelfer.

What started as 10 students in the basement of a church has now grown to over 150 students in one summer program alone.

Students hone their instrumental skills on classics, such as the “William Tell Overture” (more widely known as the theme to the “Lone Ranger”), but also into more contemporary pieces like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

“We also select by popular bands as well as what we think the audience will most enjoy,” said Gelfer.

Two concerts are held in the winter and spring with music competitions typically in the spring. Recently, after an adjudicated performance, the students were treated to an evening at Medieval Times dinner and tournament in Lyndhurst, N.J.

“I hope that our program inspires students enough to continue to love music so they play in high school and college,” said Gelfer.

A music teacher who continued to share the love of music well after retirement, Gelfer’s organization is one that stands on a solid foundation of technique, but was built with devotion to art.

“You just need a love of music; all are welcome,” said Gelfer.