Michael Bennett

Performing Arts Department Head

Annie McGarry poses for her headshot during the "Annual Head Tour Guide Photoshoot" outside the Chapel on Sep. 13, 2021. (Photo by Nicholas Pfosi)

How long have you worked at Concord Academy?

I’ve been teaching at CA since 2013.

In what departments do you teach?

I am Head of the Performing Arts Department, conduct the vocal ensembles, advise students, and also teach music history in the History Department.

What other areas of involvement at CA do you have?

I live on campus and work in the Residential Life program as a house affiliate. I also serve as an Admissions interviewer, advisor to the student singing group clubs, and music director for the annual musical.

What is the best part about working and teaching at CA?

The passion, dedication, and love of learning among our faculty and students make this such a rewarding place to be. Of course, I also appreciate the value that is put on the arts as part of the academic program rather than being extracurricular.

If you have taught at other schools, how is teaching at CA different?

CA is uniquely concerned with the success of each and every student, including their social and emotional well-being. The care with which we hold our students and the structures that are put in place to support them are really unparalleled.

What is your favorite CA tradition?

I always love the Holiday Concert each year. It is so wonderful to see the work of our many music ensembles come together in one fabulous evening of performances at a special time of year.

What do you enjoy about living on campus?

I enjoy being a part of the campus community and being able to see and interact with students and colleagues outside of the school day. The Town of Concord is a wonderful place to live, with a wonderful library, coffee shops, restaurants, bookstores, and other shops.

What did you study in your Ph.D. program?

My Ph.D. is in music history, and I primarily studied musical theater. My dissertation is called “The Broadway Musical in the Age of Mass Incarceration” and considers depictions of incarceration in musicals from the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s.

After taking time off from teaching to complete your Ph.D., what drew you back to CA?

What drew me back was the opportunity to lead the department during this incredibly exciting time as we construct the Centennial Arts Center. The new building will have a transformative impact on our programs and I am so excited about the future of the department in this new space.

What is a fun fact about you?

I’m originally from Seattle, and I have a fondness for all things Pacific Northwest and West Coast.