BIO
Rocco Oppedisano (Mr. O) is the lower grade/vocal music teacher at Public School 261 in the Boerum Hill section of Brooklyn, New York. He started there in September 2007 but has been working for the Department of Education since 2006. Rocco is also an Adjunct Faculty member of the Conservatory of Music at Brooklyn College (CUNY).
As a child, Rocco always had a passion for music but it wasn't until middle school when he started taking piano lessons that his real love of the art form took shape. He has a B.A. in Music from the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College (CUNY) and an M.A. in Music Education from Brooklyn College (CUNY). In September 2023, he is beginning his doctoral studies at Boston University, under their online DMA program.
Rocco is trained in the Kodály method, receiving his training from New York University and from the Kodály Institute in Kecskemet, Hungary. Rocco also has Level 1 Orff training from NYCCAOSA. In addition, he also has served on the local boards of the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) and the Kodály Organization of New York (KONY).
When not teaching, Rocco enjoys traveling, exercise, the outdoors and being in the company of friends and family. Oh yes, and good food too.
THE ARTS AT P.S. 261
The arts are alive at P.S. 261!
I am extremely grateful to be working at this school. The administration is extremely supportive and understands the importance of arts education in our school. There is also a wonderful PTA that supports all of our teachers. Specifically, the PTA has helped the music program with the purchase of instruments, classroom furniture, supplies, and the opportunity to attend music workshops and conferences for professional development. Parents frequently donate their time to help out at school fundraisers and events. It is this "community" feeling at 261 that has allowed the arts programs to continue to thrive.
In addition to my music program, we also have Ms. Christa who is our schools' other full-time music teacher. P.S. 261 also has two full time art teachers. There are plenty of opportunities for students to showcase their talents whether it is at the Talent Show, the AfterSchool Musical, or at performances connected to annual 261 events.