Blue Devil Marching Band Has New Leader

The Huntington Blue Devil marching band has a new director. Andre E. Rizzuto has assumed the baton after longtime leader Brian Stellato assumed additional responsibilities as the district’s K-12 coordinator of art and music education.

Huntington School Board members have appointed Mr. Rizzuto as a high school leave replacement music teacher. In addition to his duties with the Blue Devil marching band, he will be directing the junior symphonic band, teaching small group lessons along with a section of Music Theory I and directing the select wind ensemble.

“I’m so thrilled to have Mr. Rizzuto as a new member of our Huntington art and music family,” Mr. Stellato said. “He’s talented, energetic and passionate about music education and competitive marching band. He’s off to a great start.”

A resident of Brentwood, Mr. Rizzuto is related to New York Yankee Hall of Famer Phil Rizzuto. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in music education from Hofstra University. He was the collegiate president of the New York State Band Directors Association.

Mr. Rizzuto completed his student teaching certification requirement at Harry B. Thompson Middle School and Robbins Lane Elementary School in Syosset. He has worked as a marching hand instructor at Brentwood, Malverne and Floral Park high schools.

Mr. Rizzuto performed on tuba with Hofstra’s wind ensemble, symphonic band, brass ensemble, orchestra and big band and in the chorale.

The district received 45 applications for thee leave replacement teaching position. Officials pre-screened 39 candidates and 14 interviews were held prior to Mr. Rizzuto being recommended for approval by the Huntington School Board.