Most band teachers instruct students to lead great performances, but few do this like Zachary Rifkind. His upbeat, persistent nature is why many students love having him as their band teacher; he connects with students on a personal level, working with all members of the symphonic band and the wind ensemble to ensure they become the best musicians they can be.
Rifkind has been working as a band teacher for 16 years. He began working at schools in New York City before he arrived at Lynbrook North Middle School. From there, he transferred to LHS two years ago. Rifkind attended Hofstra University Honors College and majored in music education with a focus on saxophone and clarinet. Rifkind lives with his wife, Brittney, and his children, Eva and James.
At LHS, Rifkind goes above and beyond as a band teacher. He shows his persistence and diligence to educate young minds in the world of music. According to Rifkind, “Being a teacher is so much more than showing up at 7:30 and leaving at 3:00.” Rifkind gives his “all to direct the marching band,” ensuring that school spirit could be seen from the marching band at every sports game it attends. In addition, Rifkind directs extracurriculars such as Jazz Ensemble and Brass Ensemble, along with being advisor to the National Thespian Honors Society. He is beloved by students such as freshman Addison Master who describes him as a “great person who is so down to earth, chill, and funny.”
In order to assist each student in his/her musical journey, Rifkind works with his students individually and with the entire band as a whole. “Every lesson I’ve had, I learn something new. [Rifkind] has taught me a lot,” junior Connor Buxton explained. Rifkind is determined to push students to their limits without adding too much pressure. “He is just so willing to help people improve, and he doesn’t [put] people down; he brings people up,” added Master. Rifkind remains calm and cohesive while teaching, and he even “picks great music” for performances, Buxton remarked.
Rifkind keeps the LHS band community close to heart. “When I saw the sense of community, pride, and belonging that came with being in the band room, I knew that that was my calling in life,” recalled Rifkind. Rifkind says that he has formed “a safe, loving, caring environment” at LHS, guaranteeing that each student feels “content and empowered” after class.
