Kurn Hattin Home and School for Children bid farewell this spring to longtime Music Director Lisa Bianconi, who retired after 40 years of service and leadership.
Bianconi joined Kurn Hattin in 1985 shortly after graduating from college and went on to build one of the school’s most recognized and enduring programs. Over four decades, she helped generations of students discover confidence, creativity, discipline, and belonging through music.
“Lisa’s impact on Kurn Hattin is immeasurable,” said Executive Director Sue Kessler. “She has touched the lives of thousands of children, helping them discover talents they didn’t know they had and giving them opportunities they never imagined possible. Her legacy will live on in the students she inspired and the program she built.”
When Bianconi arrived at Kurn Hattin, most student performances took place off campus, before the construction of the school’s auditorium and music wing. Over the years, she helped shape both facilities, working closely with architects to create spaces that would support music education and performance for generations to come.
Under her leadership, Kurn Hattin students performed throughout New England and beyond, including appearances at Lincoln Center, the White House lawn, and Fenway Park. The program grew to include choir, band, jazz ensembles, musicals, and other opportunities that allowed every child to participate and succeed.
“One thing that kept me here all these years was that so much music happens at Kurn Hattin,” said Bianconi. “I never had to choose between choir, band, jazz, or theater. We could do it all.”
For Bianconi, however, the true measure of success has always been the students.
“Teaching children is a huge gift and responsibility,” she said. “Many kids arrive at Kurn Hattin without having experienced positive reinforcement in a school setting. It’s been a privilege to work with them and help show them who they can be.”
Throughout her career, Bianconi contributed to many areas of Kurn Hattin in addition to her work as Music Director. She credits her success to the many assistants, volunteers, colleagues, families, and community partners who supported the program over the years. “I am so grateful to everyone who welcomed me, believed in me, and helped make the program what it became,” she said. “You’ve made me better as a teacher and a person.”
Kurn Hattin recognized Bianconi’s retirement during Kurn Hattin Day on May 16, where she led her final student performance on campus. Former Kurn Hattin teacher, Principal, and Executive Director Chris Barry was on hand to pay tribute to Bianconi, saying “At the time [we hired Lisa] I thought, Chris, you better get this right. The Music Director is more important than the Principal. Well, I hit the jackpot.” Bianconi looks forward to spending more time with family, including her new grandchildren, focusing on her health, and traveling. Yet her connection to Kurn Hattin remains strong.
“I went to Kurn Hattin to teach music,” she reflected. “I’m leaving with a family.”