Steven E. Schopp

Dr. Steven E. Schopp is one of the most influential people in the field of music education across Long Island. His contributions to music education began with his position as an elementary band director in the Syosset School District in the late 1960s and later as the district’s chairperson for music, a position he held from the early 1980s until his retirement in 2004.

Throughout his career, Schopp has donated many hours of service to his profession. He was president of the Nassau Music Educators Association (1978-79) and during that time made significant contributions to the All-County Festivals. He held many positions with NYSSMA, including president (1988-89) and advisor.  He was elected to serve as the Eastern Division president of the Music Educators National Conference (1994-95). In this capacity, he served as a member of the association’s National Executive Board. During his time on the board, he established himself as one of the leading voices for music education in the country through his contributions to the development of National Standards for Arts Education.

After his retirement from the Syosset Schools, Schopp completed a Doctorate in Music Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and he took a faculty position at his alma mater, Ithaca College, where he supervises student teachers on Long Island.