Matthew R. Conaway appointed director of ‘All-American’ Marching Band
Professor Matthew Conaway poses for a photo before conducting a halftime show performance with the Purdue "All-American" Marching Band.
Purdue Bands & Orchestras is thrilled to announce that professor Matthew R. Conaway has been named the sixth director of the iconic “All-American” Marching Band.
Conaway’s journey with Purdue Bands & Orchestras began in 2001 as a graduate assistant. He went on to serve as director of bands for the West Lafayette Community School Corporation for a decade before returning to Purdue as a faculty member in 2012. Since then, Conaway has contributed extensively to the program — spending 12 seasons as associate director, one season as co-director during the pandemic and one season as interim director of the “All-American” Marching Band. He also leads Boiler Brass, the men’s basketball pep band, and conducts a variety of indoor concert ensembles.
Beyond his dedication to Purdue Bands & Orchestras, Conaway plays an active role in university governance. He serves on several key committees, including the Advisory Committee on Equity; the Primary Promotions Committee for the Patti and Rusty Rueff School of Design, Art, and Performance; the Area Promotions Committee for the College of Liberal Arts; and the Campus Promotions Committee. He currently chairs the Athletic Affairs Committee.
Conaway’s commitment to student success is evident through his seven years of service on the Purdue University Senate, where he contributed to both the Student Affairs Committee and the Steering Committee. In addition, his passion for working with students shines through his advisory roles with various student organizations.
There is something really special about the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band. The students are fantastic, the faculty and staff are top-tier, and the alumni have never lost their love for this organization. I am inspired every day by everyone’s commitment to this program and look forward to many years of collaborating for the good of our students and Purdue community
Matthew R. Conaway
Professor and 6th Director of the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band
He added, “I am ready to meet this challenge, beyond excited to take on this new role and ever grateful to Purdue University for entrusting me with this treasured, iconic organization.”
The Purdue Bands & Orchestras family is excited to welcome Professor Conaway as director and looks forward to the next chapter of excellence for the “All-American” Marching Band under his leadership.
Learn more about the Purdue “All-American” Marching Band.
