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Matthew W. Shephard is in his 23rd year as the Director of Bands at Meridian Public Schools. He attended Central Michigan University, where he earned both his Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music in Conducting degrees. While at CMU, he also served as Drum Major of the Marching Chippewas for four years. Mr. Shephard has led his Jr. High and High School ensembles to consistent superior ratings at both Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association (MSBOA) District and State Festivals. Under his leadership, the Class C high school band has grown to well over 120 musicians which represents over one-third of the student population. The Symphonic Band performed at the 2011, 2016 and 2020 Michigan Music Conferences, and his jazz bands have been featured annually at the Detroit Jazz Festival since 2012.
Mr. Shephard was named the 2015 MSBOA District V Teacher of the Year and was a finalist for the 2016 MSBOA State Teacher of the Year. Mr. Shephard was honored in 2018, 2019 & 2024 as a GRAMMY Music Educator of the Year quarterfinalist, a 2022 GRAMMY Music Educator of the Year Semifinalist, and was a 2023 GRAMMY Music Educator of the Year Finalist (Top 10).
Mr. Shephard conducts Middle School and High School Honors Bands across the state and is in demand as a clinician and adjudicator for concert and jazz festivals. He is a member of ASBDA and currently serves as the State President of the MSBOA. In addition, Mr. Shephard published a comprehensive beginning method book for adults titled, “Do-It-Yourself Trombone” through Hal Leonard Publishing.
In his free time, Mr. Shephard is an avid distance runner and is a Jr. High Cross Country coach. He and his wife Abby have three boys, Aiden, Jonah and Keegan and their rescue dog, Tater.
Learn more about the services Mr. Shephard provides at: www.mwshephard.com
Jim O'Connell bio coming soon!
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