A celebration and dedication of the Dr. Gary Chesley Music Wing took place amidst rousing jazz music, sweet song, and an appreciative staff and crowd. (View the video to see student performances.)
Describing the music department when he arrived in Bethel, Chesley said that before Dr. Ciacchi, Mr. Coachman and Karen Neville, there was nothing. “There was a dispirited group of kids and not much talent.”
Maureen DeBlois, Bethel Schools music supervisor, said through Chesley's efforts, BHS has been noted as among the 100 best music communities in the last six years. “He has provided the students with the opportunity to perform, the opportunity for the pride and joy and self esteem of performing with a music group, and the opportunity to develop musical skills and life long careers.”
Chesley said he never played an instrument in his life, but believes this music department is special. "Everybody has a role that they play, and they understand what that role is. How many days I went to the music program and learned something.”
There was no shortage of humor at the dedication. Karen Neville, who Chesley referred to as K-Nev, remembered the days before the new music rooms, “I remember choral boxes perched precariously over the seats. The floor with separate levels that made people fall off the edge almost a daily occurrence, the tiny window window labeled Emergency Use only, that was two floors up.” Shaking her head, Neville smiled, “ Not going out that way.”
Neville recalled the music department had suffered a tragic lack of space for students, but said that now, “I am thankful every day.”
Patricia Cosentino, Ph.D., principal of BHS, said, “Our kids have grown up playing music, singing, and dancing and that is all due to Dr. Chesely. The school will never forget you, now that your name is engraved in our wall.”
Selectman Richard Straiton said, “Thank you for what you have given to this community.”
