Retired EPHS Band Director in High School Hall of Fame:

John Pavao is a retired legendary band and choral director for East Providence High School. Pavao was hired to teach classes in Music Theory and Music Harmony and to lead the Sophomore Girls Chorus and male singers. Pavao came to EPHS in 1959, just a few years after the "new" high school opened on Pawtucket Avenue. In a short time, Pavao developed an elite boys' choir called the Crimson Mens Chorus and developed an extensive music program at the high school. For five years the Crimson Men won top prizes in New England Music competitions. Alongside nationally renowned EPHS band director, Dr. Stephen Farnum and Choral Director Richard Fairbanks, Pavao helped to make EPHS a powerhouse for music in New England high schools. When Dr. Farnum retired in 1969, John Pavao was made the full time band director. Pavao still taught the Crimson Men Choir and all instrumentals. The high school music program grew tremendously under Pavao. He founded the Double Brass Choir, the Stage Band, the Dixie Stage Band and a vibrant marching band - the envy of all Rhode Island high school bands. As the marching band delighted Townie crowds at football games, Pavao added flag corps, a rifle guard, baton twirlers and a color guard. Saturday mornings and soon Friday evenings at Pierce Stadium was the place to be. Just as Dr. Farnum's bands did, the Pavao bands competed in and won many all state awards throughout New England. John Pavao was important to the high school through changing times. With double sessions, there were two bands, etc. He actually repaired and built instruments when the city couldn't afford it. Pavao bands at Memorial Day Parades, the city's bicentennial program, new city hall dedication, new school construction and the Townie Pride Parade of 1984. After 28 years at EPHS, Pavao was an alternative career counselor at Bristol County Agricultural High. He was Gender Equity Project Director, Recruiter and Public Relations Director. He also was an interim director for the Cumberland Lincoln Community Chorus and arranged music for Sacred Heart Church in EP and other area churches. "Through Mr. Pavao, came a love for music that stays with me forever," is a sentiment echoed by many of Pavao's former students.

TICKETS:

The 31st annual East Providence High School Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held on Sunday, October 26th, 2014 at the Venus de Milo Restaurant in Swansea, Massachusetts. The event is open to the public and tickets are available at the high school main office. Tickets are $40. each and include a full dinner. Reception is at 12 noon and dinner at 1:00 p.m. Tickets can also be obtained from Don and Linda Carlson by calling 401-433-3693. Tickets can be obtained through Monday, October 17th, 2014. Hall of Fame inductee, Dr. Kenneth R. Walker, EPHS class of 1949, retired East Providence school administrator, Rhode Island College professor and retiring Chairman of the R.I. Parole Board will be Master of Ceremonies.