CJ Markow’s Journey from St. Benedict’s to Carnegie Hall

When CJ Markow learned that Tara Winds, the concert band of which he is a proud member, was applying for the chance to perform at Carnegie Hall, his excitement was immediate. But when the group was actually selected to perform? CJ says the feeling was pure, overwhelming joy.

“Looking back, I still can’t believe I had the opportunity to do this,” he reflects. For CJ, this wasn’t just any performance—it was a personal and professional milestone. As the middle school band director at St. Benedict’s Episcopal School, sharing the stage with fellow educators who share his passion is invaluable. “We all get to transfer what we learn back to our own band programs,” he explains, “like ours here at St. B’s.”

CJ’s journey with Tara Winds began in the spring of 2020 when he auditioned for the ensemble by playing two pieces of music. Unfortunately, the pandemic shut down many opportunities just as he was accepted. But his acceptance carried over to 2022 when the ensemble resumed, and CJ has been playing with them ever since. Over the past three years, Tara Winds has performed in the south of France, various festivals, music educator conferences—and now, the iconic Carnegie Hall.

The May performance was especially poignant. The program celebrated America, featuring four patriotic pieces, including “The Star-Spangled Banner.” It was a fitting tribute to perform these selections just before Memorial Day during their Carnegie Hall debut.

CJ credits much of his musical growth to his time at St. Benedict’s. “I’m a growing musician, just like our band program here,” he says. The support from colleagues, parents, and students at the school has been overwhelming and motivating.

To young musicians at St. Benedict’s aspiring to reach similar heights, CJ offers simple but powerful advice: “Keep playing. Opportunities like this will come your way! Music is a lifelong journey.”

He also expresses deep gratitude for Tara Winds’ director, Dr. Andrea Strauss, whose leadership helped them reach such incredible heights.

Looking ahead, CJ is excited to continue playing with Tara Winds, which will be performing next year in Tampa, Florida, for a College Band Directors conference. Closer to home, he’s eager for the St. Benedict’s band to continue growing and is excited about their upcoming performance in Orlando in March 2026.

Reflecting on his time at St. Benedict’s, CJ is proud of how far the band program has come and looks forward to the future. “It’s been so rewarding to see our growth over the past two years, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.

Fine Arts at St. Benedict’s

At St. Benedict’s, fine arts are an essential part of the student experience. From 5th to 8th grade, students engage in a comprehensive and integrated fine arts program that fosters creativity, cultural appreciation, and personal expression. We believe the arts provide invaluable benefits beyond the classroom, including enhanced self-esteem, motivation, emotional expression, and social connection. In 5th grade, students choose to explore Band, Drama, or Art & Design. As they progress to 6th-8th grade, they can continue with Band or Design Studio and participate in fine arts-focused clubs during the school day.