me arts ed

New York Music Magazine Review

South Portland High School music teacher Craig Skeffington has been noted this month for his piece “Reverse of the Curse”. This month’s New York Music Magazine includes a rave review, by Jazz Reveiw Editor Daniel Fabricius.

“Reverse of the Curse” is dedicated to the World Series victories by the Boston Red Sox, and is a very clever minor blues that features interesting harmonies.  The 1st tenor, 4th trumpet, 1st trombone and guitar are featured in a solo section. Chord changes (with scales included) are on the 1st alto sax part.  A driving a cappella section will challenge the horn players. Articulations are very clearly marked and the rhythm section parts are fully notated.”

Craig on his trumpet

Craig has been the band director in South Portland since 1994. His performing groups have won numerous honors, including the Maine State Jazz Festival ten times; the Berklee College of Music Festival three times and MusicFest Orlando in 2001.

In 2003 the Maine Music Educators Association named Craig the Music Educator of the Year. He is currently the Maine’s Jazz Activities Vice-President as well as a former Instrumental Jazz Chair. Craig has served as the President of the Maine Band Director’s Association. In 2007 Craig was recognized by the national magazine School Band and Orchestra as one of the “50 band directors that make a difference”.

Craig is a trumpet player and has composed, arranged and published several pieces. Craig lives in South Portland with his wife Carrie and two daughters, Hannah and Molly. You can learn more about Craig at his website and listen to his music. Please join me in CONGRATULATING Craig!