The Dunellen High School music department welcomes its newest director, Mr. Shah. As a newly hired teacher, he expressed that he is excited to work with his new students and is hoping to have a fun educational experience with both his students and his co workers.

Mr. Minesh A. Shah attended Linden High School before he attended the University of Massachusetts in Amherst to obtain his bachelor’s degree in Music. Mr. Shah explains that his time at UMASS LOWELL molded him to become a better teacher, and taught him how to work harder, while still working smarter. As far his education goes, he is currently attending Montclair State University in hopes of getting his master’s degree in Performance.

After college, Mr. Shah began working at Elizabeth High School, where he was the choir director, and the music caption supervisor for the marching band. Under his guidance, he and his students accomplished a few feats, such as performing at Metlife Stadium, the Super-bowl, and obtaining a 5 year winning streak including 3 consecutive State and National titles.

With all the instruments he has taught and played, Mr. Shah explains that it is hard coming down to a particular one that he favors over others. However, he does mention that there are instruments he still wants to learn how to play, such as guitar and bass guitar. Mr. Shah went on to say, "I’ve had trouble learning how to play the piano, because it requires you to be dual handed.”

Besides music, Mr. Shah also enjoys history. One of his favorite historical moments was the celebration that followed the victory of World War Two. He explained that this time period was his favorite because it showed the coming together and celebration of a nation. He also explained that he enjoyed the music that was produced during that time period.

Mr. Shah also says he enjoys sixties and seventies R&B Funk and Soul music. A particular music group that he favors that produces this music is called Tower of Power. “It’s the best of everything you want to hear in music,” he says. “It has good singers, and groove, and a new brass scene.”

He also enjoys playing old school video games such as Donkey Kong and Mario. But next to his passion for music, Mr. Shah enjoys collecting sneakers. He mentioned that he has over 250 pairs of sneakers, some he hasn’t even worn yet! When Mr. Shah has time, he also enjoys traveling with his wife. He explained that one of his most memorable journeys was when he and his wife went to Alaska to visit the glaciers.

Mr. Shah is looking forward to a successful and productive year here at DHS, and he is eager to engage in music theory with his classes.