We recently caught up with Mr. Anthony Calabrese, who serves as the auditorium manager at Waterloo High School, to learn more about his profession, his appreciation for Waterloo CSD, and so much more. 

What are the responsibilities of your job?

I manage all use of technology in the auditorium, set up for events as any stagehand would, and support audio throughout the district. I also interface with the Music Department regularly as a percussion specialist.

What aspects of the job do you most look forward to each day? 

I definitely enjoy coming to see the students and celebrating their successes.

What characteristics of Waterloo CSD impress you the most? 

Many of the students at Waterloo seem to share the values with which I was raised—values that I honestly didn’t expect to see as often in younger generations.

How have your previous roles helped you in this one?

My background involves a blend of teaching and performing. I’ve worked as a Teaching Assistant for many years and have a vast network of teacher and musician friends across the State. Over the years I've served in many roles with orchestras, youth orchestras, universities like Nazareth and HWS Colleges, so I've developed a great network of friends and colleagues. I'll often reach out to these folks to investigate opportunities for our students. My performing experience allows me to glean production tips and tricks to incorporate here at Waterloo (lighting, for example).  I'm lucky to have enjoyed this balance of activities that continues to feed and inform what I offer WCSD.

Who or what inspired you to pursue your current profession? 

Music is just in me--it's who I am. My work allows me to interface with the arts daily, keep in touch with my colleagues across the region, and encourage students to feel proud of who they are and what they have to offer.

What is your favorite stage performance you’ve been a part of?  

I performed under the batons of the late Pierre Boulez and Lorin Maazel with the Chicago Civic Orchestra. At Northwestern University I worked with Eric Whitacre, and I won an international grand prize in Italy twenty years ago. That is still one of the best weeks of my life.

What is your favorite book?

The Inner Game of Music by Barry Green. The gist: we can be either judgment-oriented, like an adult learner who only sees the negative, OR we can stay process-oriented, aware of how we are performing, but without self-criticism. The goal is a relaxed concentration that keeps us “in the zone”. This applies to all sports as well.

What is your favorite food? 

Whey and lean protein. 

What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time? 

All I want to do is lift weights, play percussion, re-watch Stranger Things, and help people feel good about themselves.

What is the best advice you have ever received? 

The last thing to grow on a fruit tree… is the fruit. Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.