CMU Alumni named a recipient for the 2025 CMA Music Teacher of Excellence Award

A proud alumnus of CMU (BME 2001, MM 2006), he was honored by the Country Music Association Foundation among 15 national awardees, a recognition aimed at showcasing inspiring music educators who nurture the growth of student musicians, advocate for music education in schools, and make a positive impact in their communities.

Shephard participated in meet and greet sessions at the Country Music Hall of Fame, engaged in workshops led by CMA Foundation featuring industry luminaries, and attended the Awards Ceremony at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center on September 10, where his significant contributions to music education were acknowledged on a national scale.

“The School of Music at CMU is honored to have Matt Shephard as an alumnus.” Said Dr. Robert “Bob” Lindahl, Director of the School of Music. “From the time I first met Matt when he started taking trombone lessons with me while in high school, I have always appreciated his grace and sincerity with all aspects of life.  His intellectual desire to learn from all experiences, his ability to relate to people of all ages, and expertise in his chosen field have all led to his recent well-deserved national awards. I have enjoyed watching Matt work with his students for years, and it is obvious that he has affected thousands of lives in a positive way due to his talent, work ethic and love of his profession.”

During his time in Nashville, Shephard had the chance to engage with country music artists, producers, and members of the CMA Board of Directors, with whom he aims to collaborate to further advance music education throughout the United States.

CMA Foundation Executive Director Tiffany Kerns stated, "Your leadership extends far beyond the classroom, from being a three-time GRAMMY Music Educator Award finalist to advocating for small school music programs and helping your community heal through music after the 500-year flood event. The resilience, passion, and care you model for your students is extraordinary. Through performances like the "Glow Show" halftime event and your dedication to student empowerment, you have created a program where success is measured not just by trophies, but by the strength of character and community spirit you instill."

With the support of a grant from the CMA Foundation, along with additional school grants received as a Grammy Music Educator of the Year Finalist over the past three years, Shephard intends to commission a piece of music for the Meridian Early College High School Symphonic Band, created by Andrew David Perkins. Perkins will instruct the band students in compositional techniques, paving the way for several students interested in pursuing composition after graduation.