UPIKE Newsroom

The University of Pikeville is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Phillips, Ph.D., who will direct and manage the new marching and concert band programs.

A native of upstate New York, Phillips has 26 years of teaching experience in Alabama, Georgia, Florida and New York, as well as management experience in the music industry. He received a bachelor’s degree from the Crane School of Music, State University of New York at Potsdam, a master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Champaign/Urbana, and a Ph.D. from the University of Florida.

The University of Pikeville’s Board of Trustees voted to approve the marching and concert band programs last October and began the search for a finalist.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Phillips to the UPIKE family. His background, expertise and passion for music and band are exactly what UPIKE was looking for as we launch our band programs,” said Provost Dr. Lori Werth.

Phillips has directed and performed in multiple musical pit orchestras and been a guest conductor of multiple honor wind band, youth orchestra and jazz ensembles. He has served on the executive board of the New York State Band Directors Association and the staff of the International Bands of America Tour in Europe, managed the University of Florida Wind Symphony performance to Carnegie Hall and was on the University of Florida marching band instructional staff that performed at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, England.

Phillips and his wife, Jessica, have a son, Aidan. The family enjoys exploring with their rescue dog, Captain.