Middletown High School - Cauldron Yearbook (Middletown, CT)

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Through the years As high school students, ours was the opportunity to expand our intellectual capa- cities. We learned during the four-year struggle with the books our scholastic strengths and weaknesses, our academic likes and dis- likes. Each year, with the in- creasing workload, we shoul- dered the added responsibil- ity that was required of us as students. We rose to the oc- casion, meeting the challenge of a new class, a new subject, a new assignment. We have come to refine those skills needed to continue our edu- cation, or to become a mem- ber of the work force. 4

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As Chairperson of the Middletown Public Schools Cultural Council since 1979, Fragilio has labored with the Middletown Commission on the Arts to enhance culture and music as a beautiful art in the public schools. Every Christmastime, Fragilio directs the annual city-sponsored “Community Sing” on the South Green. In the summer, Fragilio provides entertainment to the crowds at Harbor Park with the Middletown Symphonic Band — a band he created. Plus, Fragilio devotes time to the Middletown Park and Recreation Department in areas dealing with the arts. His most recent community accomplishment was the founding of the Middletown Foundation for the Arts, which represents 16 Middletown arts organizations. In the past two years, Fragilio has become involved in two more community groups. He recently began chairing the Fine Arts Study Committee, bringing the talent of Wesleyan University performers to the schools. As a member of C.A.U.S.E., Fragilio inputs knowledge of both music and education to advocate continued financial support to the Humanities in the city. The musicmakers of Middletown High have performed in front of world audiences because of Fragilio’s rigorous efforts. In 1972, the band toured Europe, delighting audiences in Italy, Germany and even the renowned Vienna Opera House. Fragilio’s expertly trained students were also honored with the invitation to perform at the 1965 World’s Fair. His professionalism has spread to other schools with numerous exchange concerts throughout New England and New York. Today, Fragilio is credited with involving MHS students in Northern Region and All-State music festivals. Fragilio’s musical prowess was recognized by his fellow colleagues. At a conference in Bennington, Vermont in 1972, the MHS veteran unveiled research on a new approach to teaching music to high school students “Music is a lively art — it can only be learned through hearing and participation,” believes Fragilio. This belief has inspired students of music in Middletown for over three decades. Something has to be right. The reason for Middletown’s very successful music program is because of one man, who started it all four decades ago. Santo Fragilio, as a teacher of music, musician, coordinator, director, and man, a sincere thank you. With love and gratitude, the 132nd graduating class of Middletown High School dedicates the 1983 Cauldron to Santo Fragilio.

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Through the years Upon entering Middletown High, we found an additional benefit of the educational process in sports. By partici- pating in organized athletics, we could develop more fully as persons. On a MHS team, we learned to improve our- selves as individuals, while si- multaneously supporting a group effort. Physically and mentally tested, we gained confidence in ourselves and in our teammates. And whether participant or spec- tator, we triumphed in the victory of a game well- played, proud to demon- strate the talent and sports- manship of our school. 5