About Matt Conaway
Matt Conaway (b. 1979) is a distinguished American composer, arranger, and educator, widely celebrated for his significant contributions to wind band literature and collegiate athletic band programs. His primary musical style encompasses vibrant and accessible contemporary concert band pieces, alongside prolific arrangements for marching and pep bands. Conaway's impact is evident in his extensive catalog of published works, which are performed by ensembles across various skill levels, establishing him as a prominent voice in modern band music education and performance.
- Matt Conaway has served as Associate Director of Bands at Purdue University, where he works with the "All-American" Marching Band, concert bands, and pep bands, and was promoted to Full Professor in July 2024.
- He made his Carnegie Hall debut in March 2016 with the world premiere performance of his work "Firing on All Cylinders" by the Purdue Wind Ensemble.
- Conaway is an award-winning, internationally-known composer for concert bands, with over fifty original works and over one hundred published marching and concert band arrangements.
- Millions of people annually hear his arrangement of "Back Home Again In Indiana" during the pre-race ceremony of the Indianapolis 500.
Matt Conaway's sheet music offers a rewarding experience for a wide range of musicians, from very beginning to advanced performers. His concert band compositions are known for their engaging melodies, thoughtful orchestration, and pedagogical value, making them ideal for school bands in grades 5-12, as well as collegiate and professional ensembles. Arrangers and directors will also find his athletic band charts particularly useful for their vibrant energy and effectiveness. Performing Conaway's music provides an opportunity to explore contemporary band repertoire that is both musically stimulating and technically approachable, allowing musicians to develop their skills while enjoying captivating and well-crafted pieces.