Windham Joins University Faculty

Staff Writer

Photo by Brittany Gilliam Sears

Holding Auditions - Mark Windham (right) talks with Derrick Summer (left), a senior at Watson Chapel High School, before he auditions for a scholarship. Windham joined the University of Arkansas-Monticello faculty as the marching band coordinator and low brass instructor.

   Mark Windham, marching band coordinator/low brass instructor, joins the music program at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, bringing much experience.

   At an early age, Windham said he knew music seemed to touch him more than it did most people.  For 18 years, music has been a part of his life.

   Windham attended Henderson State University as an undergraduate and got his Masters from the University of North Texas. During his time at the UNT, he participated and recorded with a top performing group, the North Texas Wind Symphony.

   Windham said his prayers were answered when he joined Paul Pewitt High School and began directing their band.

   Gary Meggs, director of bands at UAM, judged at a contest Windham's band played at. Meggs was impressed with how far the band had come with Windham as the director.

   Meggs later told Windham about an upcoming job opening at UAM.  Windham applied and got the job. 

   "We handpicked him out of young marching band instructors and low brass teachers all over the country," Meggs said. 

   Meggs said Windham is a high-quality guy and very likeable.

   "I teach and coordinate all aspects of the marching band," Windham said.

   Windham also teaches Music Technology, Music Appreciation, Secondary Instrumental Methods, brass class, and the concert band. In his free time, Windham instructs private lessons for music majors studying trombone, euphonium and tuba. 

   Windham plays all instruments, but said he has mastered the trombone.

   For Windham the love of music not only includes directing and playing instruments, he also enjoys singing.  

   Family is another reason why Windham feels he is a good match for UAM.  Now that he is closer to his family, he said he feels he can devote more time to them. "I feel like God led me here," he said.

   Windham said he loves UAM and loves his new job.

   "To me, (Windham) is the face of the future of the UAM band program," said Meggs.                              

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