抖阴视频 is proud to welcome Prof. Zach Cheever as the new director of bands. Cheever brings a dynamic blend of artistry, conducting experience and a strong passion for student mentorship to 抖阴视频鈥檚 music program.
Originally from Ypsilanti, Michigan, Cheever鈥檚 journey into music education began early in life.
鈥淚 grew up in bands and always felt a desire to have music be a part of my career,鈥 he said.
After changing majors several times, he found his home in the music department at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tenn., where his musical ability and self-confidence blossomed.
鈥淚 was able to develop many skills and grow as a musician in ways I never dreamed,鈥 Cheever said. 鈥淭revecca made me who I am, and I am grateful for the faculty who believed in me, including Drs. David Diehl, Eric Wilson and Matthew Murdock.鈥
After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in music theory and composition, Cheever knew he wanted to teach but didn鈥檛 yet have a clear direction. He decided to pursue graduate studies, earning a Master of Music in instrumental conducting from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn., and a Doctor of Musical Arts in wind conducting and literature from the University of Colorado鈥揃oulder.
鈥淒uring graduate school, I studied with notable conducting mentors Drs. Greg Wolynec and Don McKinney,鈥 he said. 鈥淭hey gave me opportunities that shaped me as a teacher and professional. That鈥檚 when I knew I wanted to be that same kind of mentor for students in higher education.鈥
Cheever鈥檚 previous teaching roles at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Austin Peay State University gave him valuable experience mentoring students.
鈥淐ollege is a special time for young adults where they develop their sense of self,鈥 he said. 鈥淚 enjoy my role in that journey, helping students navigate their exploration of music and life.鈥
Cheever chose 抖阴视频 because it reminds him of his undergraduate institution, both in its model of holistic education and in the collaborative spirit of the faculty.
鈥淭he 抖阴视频 music faculty deeply care about students and genuinely enjoy working with each other,鈥 he said. 鈥淎dditionally, it was clear they recognized my commitment to student mentorship and to fostering new levels of artistry and music-making. Based on our conversations and time together, I knew this was going to be a great fit.鈥
Cheever said he looks forward to becoming part of the Lincoln and 抖阴视频 communities and to teaching new courses in conducting and music education.
鈥淓veryone has been so genuinely welcoming and kind. It's clear that the university鈥檚 core values are a guiding force for us,鈥 he said. 鈥淵ou can see it in the way students talk about their experiences and in how faculty and staff engage with students.鈥