University of Southern Maine

Junior Music Academy

Director

George Shabo, Academy director for the Junior Music Academy, was born and raised in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in music education from Rhode Island College in 1982. He is currently enrolled in the educational administration graduate program at the University of Southern Maine. At present, George serves as Assistant Principal of Loranger Middle School of Old Orchard Beach. Before becoming the Assistant Principal, he was the Music Director and his marching, concert, and jazz bands have been recognized for their excellence for the past 23 years. George has been associated with the Southern Maine Junior Music Academy since its beginning 15 years ago. He served as the SMJMA Jazz Band Director for eight years and has served as the camp's director for the past seven years. He was a regional finalist for the 2000 Maine Teacher of the Year and was recently named a finalist for the 2008 MTOY program. George enjoys entertaining throughout New England as the sax player with the professional music group, The High Ryder Golden Oldies Show.

George Shabo resides in Old Orchard Beach with his wife Mary, their children George, Melissa and Jared, and their three Labrador retrievers Bella, Clark, and Lexi.