Hopkins Students Listen and Learn from Grammy-Winning Musician

On Friday, December 6, thirty Hopkins music students attended a performance at Woolsey Hall in New Haven featuring Joe McCarthy's Latin Grammy-winning New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band (NYABABB) alongside Yale's Concert Band. McCarthy, a Madison, CT native and childhood friend of Hopkins English teacher Brad Czepiel, has built a distinguished career as a drummer, percussionist, bandleader, producer, and educator. He excels in a wide range of musical styles, including symphony orchestra, bebop, big band, Afro-Cuban, and theater.

The following week, members of the Hopkins Concert and Jazz Bands participated in an exclusive workshop with McCarthy. During his visit, McCarthy shared personal stories and insights from his career as a touring musician, bandleader, and educator. He also offered advice on listening, rhythm, practice techniques, and succeeding as a modern musician. Students had the opportunity to ask questions and rehearse selections from their upcoming Winter Concert under his guidance. McCarthy also joined the jazz ensemble on congas, illustrating concepts such as subdivision and how to feel and perform rhythms on a deeper level.

“We hope to welcome Mr. McCarthy back to campus in the future,” said music teacher Erik Elligers, whose Concert and Jazz band classes were part of Mr. McCarthy’s workshop. “Perhaps with members of his band for a special performance with students in the new Performing Arts Center once the building opens in 2025,” Elligers added.