George Beratis, Band Director

George Beratis, who is also known by his students as “Mr. B” has been a musician since he was 14 years old where he began playing the alto saxophone in his high school band. It didn’t take long before he fell in love with music, how it made him feel and the purpose it serves in our lives. 

After high school Mr. Beratis attended Western Connecticut State University where he received a BM in Jazz Studies with a concentration in jazz saxophone. Upon graduating, he spent the next year practicing and gigging around the country. At that point, he decided to go back to school and pursue his other passion which is teaching music to kids, so he went to get his masters degree in music education from the University of Bridgeport while simultaneously interning and earning his music teaching certification. 

Mr. Beratis’ teaching career began in 2008 where he had brief year-long stints teaching elementary/middle school band, chorus and general music in Bridgeport and Stratford. He then transitioned to teaching high school music at his alma mater Stamford High School for nine years. During his tenure in Stamford, Mr. Beratis was named the first finalist for “Teacher of the Year,”  went back to the University of Bridgeport to earn his second masters degree (sixth year) in educational leadership and administration, and was chosen for the position of music content leader where he created monthly professional development opportunities for all music teachers in the district. 

In 2019 Mr. Beratis moved to Ridgefield High School where he was named the music programs new band director. He runs the wind ensemble, concert band, jazz band, percussion ensemble and pep-band. During his time here the band program has continued to grow both in size and musical ability. His ensembles regularly perform upper level music that inspires and challenges his students to be their best selves. As Mr. Beratis continues his tenure here in Ridgefield, he will work closely with his colleagues and the community to reach new levels of proficiency and success. 

As a musician Mr. Beratis is an active performer. He can be found playing in shows at local community theaters, headlining his own jazz quartet, being a side man and playing with the “Mixtape Orchestra” wedding band. He formerly played baritone sax with “The Saxtet” from 2011-2015. 

Contact Info: Email: gberatis@ridgefieldps.net Phone: 203-894-5750 X2593