Professor and student reunite to benefit guitar students

A special reunion 25 years in the making recently took place at North Syracuse Junior High School, all in the name of music education. NSJH guitar teacher Mark D’Alberto welcomed his former college professor, James Piorkowski, a distinguished professor emeritus from SUNY Fredonia, to work hands-on with students in the school’s growing guitar program. “When I gave my senior recital back in 2000, we never got a photo together,” said D’Alberto. “I’ve looked forward to this moment for 25 years, and I’m so grateful that this guitar program gave us the opportunity to reconnect and bring something truly special to my students.”

The visit marked more than just a reconnection between teacher and mentor, it was also a meaningful educational moment for the junior high musicians. Piorkowski, who retired last year after a celebrated career, spent time taking questions, sharing stories and coaching the young guitarists.

The students’ questions ranged from how Piorkowski deals with burnout to his biggest inspirations (spoiler: it was The Beatles on TV at age 11). He spoke candidly about his musical journey, including a very personal moment when composing music helped him process the loss of his son. “The guitar has always been like an old friend,” he said, “someone you can always go back to.”

Students were also treated to live performances of Piorkowski’s original compositions, including In the Shadows of Winter’s Moon, and participated in a coaching session where they explored musical interpretation, phrasing and technique. He encouraged students to “listen for the notes you want to hear next and make it come to life.”

The visit also honored the people who helped bring D’Alberto’s dream of a school guitar program to life. Special guests included Donna Marie Norton, who first suggested the guitar class idea in 2002, and current Fine Arts Director Daryle Redmond. “I wanted them to see the passion I have for this program and share in what we’ve built together,” D’Alberto said.

The guitar program at NSJH began in 2022 and continues to grow under D’Alberto’s leadership. This year, he even composed an original piece for his students titled Thou Shalt Not Be Boring, a nod to one of Piorkowski’s famous classroom mottos. With guidance, inspiration and a little bit of rock 'n' roll magic, the program is clearly hitting all the right notes.