Dec. 21, 2009

New CCHS band director has Warriors on the march

By Maci Hughes

CENTRE — Cherokee County High School's new band director, Matthew Loyd, is no stranger to the world of marching bands. A former drum major for the Ridgeland High School band in Rossville, Ga., he has also played trombone in the Chattanooga Youth Symphony.
After high school, Loyd spent four years as a member of the Marching Southerners at JSU. Loyd was trombone section leader and played with the university's Chamber Winds. Loyd also played on a regular basis with the Gadsden Symphony Orchestra.

In middle school, Loyd's parents wanted him to participate in an extracurricular activity. Although he initially joined the band because he thought it would be easy, Loyd later admitted it was one of the best decisions of his life.

“Not only did I find my biggest hobby,” Loyd said. “I also found a passion for music.”
The Warrior band sparked Loyd's interest because he could see potential twinkling in the eyes of every member.

“All of my students are smart, and they each have a great personality,” he said. “It is a joy to work with these students every day.”

Perhaps Loyd's strong background is the reason for the band's success since he took over.

In October, the Warrior Marching Band won best in class in the Pride of Hayden Marching Band competition, its first time to receive the award. The newly-formed color guard also won Best in Class.

“As soon as the announcer said 'Best in Class, Cherokee County', the students and parents went crazy.” Loyd said. “Some were at a loss of words, and some were crying.”

At first, Loyd worried his young age was going to be a problem for some of the students. But after the first few days of band camp, the students discovered Loyd's dedication and strong work ethic.

Loyd is especially proud of his students because of their genuine love and support of their state championship-winning football team.
“We have had a wonderful, fun season,” Loyd said. “With an award-winning football team, award-winning cheerleaders, and an award-winning band, what could go wrong?”
During his time at CCHS, Loyd has developed a strong relationship with his band members.
“I have taught my kids that respect goes a long way,” he said. “I respect my students for their talents, and they respect mine. We have a strong family in the band, and I am honored to be a part of it.”

Loyd is also the band director at Centre Middle School, and says he has also received tremendous support from everyone there. He said band parents and the boosters club are very supportive, and Loyd says he is “lucky to work with a faculty that respects the arts.” Recently, he was named Teacher of the Year by the CCHS faculty.

Loyd has set many more goals for the band. He hopes to see membership reach a hundred, for starters. He also wants to renovate the band room and purchase several new instruments.
“With the continued support of the band boosters, school officials, and community, we can reach these goals,” he said.