Robert Van Wyk
Rahway · New Jersey
- Grades:
- 9–12
- Subject(s):
- Music
A note from Robert
For 29 years, I've had the privilege of empowering young people through music at Rahway High School — first as Director of Bands (1997–2014), and since 2014 as Director of Choirs, leading the Choir, Madrigals, and Musical Theatre program. Every student deserves the chance to discover what they're capable of through music — regardless of their zip code, or their family's circumstances. That belief is what drives me. My work is grounded in one belief: every student deserves training, resources, and transformative experiences in a safe, nurturing, and inspirational environment. Too many talented kids face real barriers to quality arts education. My job is to close that gap — to make sure every student who walks through the door gets a genuine shot at excellence, no matter where they started. For 29 years, I've built the kind of program that makes that possible. As Director of Choirs and, before that, Director of Bands at Rahway High School, I've grown ensembles from the ground up — recruiting, fundraising, writing curriculum, and building partnerships with organizations to put real opportunity in front of students who wouldn't otherwise have it. That belief has taken our students to perform across the United States, Lincoln Center (2024), Carnegie Hall (2026), and Broadway stages — alumni have gone on to star on the Broadway stage, TV, and film. Beyond the classroom, I'm an active professional trumpet and piano performer (jazz and classical), a curriculum developer across choral, instrumental, musical theatre, piano, and music technology programs, and I run the social media and arts advocacy presence for Rahway Public Schools' Performing Arts (@wearerahwayarts). In 2026, I was honored to be named a Master Music Teacher by the New Jersey Music Educators Association — a recognition of nearly three decades of building a music program in Rahway, NJ. I'm actively exploring my next chapter in performing arts leadership — whether that's directing a program, running an arts organization, or teaching at the college level. If you're hiring for a role like that, or just want to talk about what it takes to build a program that changes kids' lives, send me a message — I'd genuinely love to connect.
A book Robert recommends
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens - Sean Covey
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