Excellence Since 1938

With outstanding faculty members, professional administration, and an active Board of Trustees dedicated to serving the school and community, the Westport School of Music continues to serve children, youth, and adults of all ages and abilities, from all parts of Fairfield County and Westport, Connecticut.

Sarah Miller

Director
Director Sarah Miller began piano, flute and voice lessons as a child and knew by eighth grade that she wanted to pursue a career in music. She received a Bachelor's degree in music therapy from Ohio University and a Master's degree in arts administration from the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. 

Sarah previously served as executive director for the Richmond (IN) Symphony Orchestra and the Ridgefield (CT) Symphony Orchestra and was the operations manager for the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra in Bellingham, WA. Before becoming WSM Director in August of 2017, she served as education and donor relations manager for the Waterbury (CT) Symphony Orchestra. 

As a registered music therapist, Sarah has also worked in nursing facilities and state hospitals in Ohio and California and most recently at Greenwich Woods Rehabilitation and Care Center in Greenwich, CT. She continues to perform as a flutist and soprano in the Chancel Choir and Orchestra at Jesse Lee United Methodist Church in Ridgefield, CT and for other community events. 

Martha Hisey

Former Director
Martha Hisey, Instructor of Piano, retired in 2017 as Director of the Westport School of Music. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Hiram College, and her Master of Music degree in piano performance from Indiana University. She joined the WSM faculty in 1971 as a member of the piano faculty, became Associate Director in 1974 and was named Director in 1987. Through her leadership, funds were raised in 1995 from Newman's Own Foundation, Near And Far Aid Organization, The Fairfield County Foundation, and generous parents and donors to begin the WSM MusicWorks! music therapy program for students with special needs. Mrs. Hisey's passion for chamber music as a teaching tool for students led to the initiation of student Chamber Music Concerts which are presented in alternate years. Her pride in the WSM faculty led to a Faculty Chamber Music concert series that began in 2000, and continues with concerts scheduled each year in the Fall.

Richard Gregor

Former Director
Concert pianist Richard Gregor joined the faculty as Artist-Teacher in 1958, and quickly became involved in and committed to the School. His concept of a Scholarship Fund to assist families with tuition led to the first Scholarship Fund Benefit Concert in the spring of 1960. Since that time, more than 500 students have been granted over $140, 000 in aid. Richard Gregor became Associate Director in 1960, and was named Director in 1972 following Mrs. Maxwell’s death. As teacher, administrator, and performer, he left his mark on the School.

Marguerite Maxwell

Founder

Marguerite Maxwell envisioned a unique method of providing musical training for youngsters in the community. The Westport School of Music opened in 1938 on Hillspoint Road with two teachers and approximately 40 students. When Mrs. Maxwell purchased the Woods Grove Road prperty in 1946, there were nine faculty and over 100 students. Mrs. Maxwell’s special rapport with children, her organizational skills and administrative ability had all combined to establish the School as an important cultural and educational asset in the community.​

The Board of Trustees are all unpaid volunteers who come from varied backgrounds, but share a common passion for music education. The Board also solicits input and insight from various individuals and business community members in Fairfield County. Board nominations may be made by anyone, including existing Board members, parents of students, alumni, and the general public.

B O A R D of T R U S T E E S

Ryan Kopreski, Chair

Tessa Bachmann, Vice-Chair

HQ Nguyen, Treasurer

Nancy Gallagher, Secretary

Nilajan Bhowmik

Sarah Miller, President (ex-officio)