MATTHEW
GALLAGHER
Area of Study: B.S. Music Education
Current City: Gilbertsville, PA
Graduation Date: May 1997
Current Occupation: Assistant Professor, The University of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA
Why did you choose WCU and/or the School of Music?
It was an easy choice for me to attend WCU because it was a family tradition! My grandfather
is from the class of 1951 and my mother is from the class of 1970. In regards to the
School of Music, I had a few teachers along the way that were WCU grads from Swope
and I was of course highly influenced by them!
What training or education did the School of Music provide for you that relates to
your current occupation?
Being a Music Education major set me up for a very rewarding career in teaching. I
have taught elementary, middle school, high school, undergraduate, and graduate levels.
WCU set the foundation I needed to be successful at all levels of music education
and I am very grateful for that. I also was inspired on the performance side of music
as well. Some of my professors, such as Frank Kaderabek, Lee Southal, and John Villella
made a huge impact on my motivation to be a great musician first and always keep that
at the core of what I do.
What is a typical day like for you?
I have a very active and thriving career in performing and teaching. I am a full time
professor at UARTS as well as a performing musician. Each day I am constantly trying
to find balance between my gigs, teaching, and family life! However, I will say that
I can't see myself doing anything different than what I am doing today. It is pretty
cool to wake up everyday and do something you love!
What advice would you give to someone who would like to enter your field?
Music is a calling and is at the center of what I do everyday. A career in music will
never be easy and will challenge you everyday of your life. If you are up to that
challenge, you will have a great and happy life ahead of you!
What is your favorite memory of being a student at WCU and/or in the School of Music?
Some of my fondest memories of WCU center around the people and the hang! Being in
the marching band and the Criterions was an amazing collection of people that were
a lot like me. Being around those people that loved and appreciated music like I did
was a lot of fun. The hang with the professors was great too! I always felt welcome
in their offices for a quick question about class or just to say hi, it was always
cool!