Henley named interim director of athletic bands at WCU
Henley had been the assistant director of athletic bands under director Jack Eaddy Jr. who announced his departure July 5 to take a teaching position at the University of Georgia. Donated photo
Matt Henley has been named interim director of athletic bands at Western Carolina University and will lead the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band this upcoming season while a national search is underway for a permanent director.
Henley had been the assistant director of athletic bands under director Jack Eaddy Jr. who announced his departure July 5 to take a teaching position at the University of Georgia.
“It has been an honor to lead this illustrious organization,” Eaddy said when his departure was made public. “I am fortunate to have helped POTM return from COVID-19 and continue the rich tradition of excellence. We have had many great performances, amazing trips, some life-changing experiences and become better people, and a better organization in the process.”
Eaddy extended his gratitude to the welcoming community to which he and his family became a part of.
“I thank POTM, the university and the community for embracing my family and welcoming us,” he said. “It is hard leaving an organization with such a rich legacy and supportive community. A special thank you to my colleagues who helped me become a part of the Catamount family. POTM members: don’t forget the special entity POTM is. Cherish it and honor the tradition of the Long Purple Line.”
George Brown, dean of the David Orr Belcher College of Fine and Performing Arts was enthusiastic about having Henley take the helm.
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“We are excited and grateful that Matt is stepping into the role of interim director of athletic bands for this next season,” Brown said. “Matt’s experience, professionalism and most importantly, passion for the Long Purple Line of the Pride of the Mountains will ensure the grand traditions of POTM and the high quality of their halftime show will continue to serve our students and Catamount fans.”
Henley earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music at WCU. As the assistant director, his duties included assisting with POTM and the two “Cathouse bands,” which play at all home basketball games, and the dynamic “Purple Thunder” basketball drum line. He also teaches and arranges for the marching percussion program.
In addition to his teaching duties, he composes, arranges, adjudicates and is a prominent percussion clinician across the U.S.
