Music Unites the Neely’s Bend Community
The Neely’s Bend Music Program is comprised of courses and ensemble offerings in the areas of Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, Music Production & Recording, and Music Theory. Our music program unites our students, parents, staff, and community utilizing music as our medium. We believe that through music, students develop self-discipline, organization, time management, confidence, attention to detail, and pedagogical skills in musicianship.
At Neely’s Bend, music is valued as a universal language that sparks student interest and brings people together. Please visit our “Music Events” tab to learn about the life-changing experiences our students are having with music here at Neely’s Bend!
We Offer:
Mighty Bend Band
The Neely’s Bend Band consists of woodwind, brass, and percussion students who unite to learn a musical instrument and perform beautiful music for their community.
Genres of music the band performs include:
- Hip Hop
- Pop
- Country
- Folk
- Pep Band (football and basketball game style).
The Neely’s Bend Band performs a Fall Concert, Winter Concert, and Spring Concert. The band also makes public appearances throughout the Nashville, Tennessee area at numerous school sports events and local festivals. The Neely’s “Mighty Bend Band” is directed by Mr. Chris Mudd.
Drums & Percussion
This group learns aspects of drum line performance on snare drum and bass drum. Students learn to read music, notate rhythms, and perform cohesively as a united ensemble. Students in this group are also members of the Neely’s Bend Band Program and perform at all concerts with the woodwind and brass students throughout the Fall, Winter, and Spring. The drum line may also be spotted at numerous football or basketball games throughout the season!
Edit and Record Your Own Music
Students involved in the Music Production and Recording courses learn about the technology, music notation, and business aspects of creating music. Students will edit, record, notate, and create their own digital and live music projects. These projects are showcased throughout the school year, and will be featured at Neely’s Bend sporting events, community events, and school functions.
Meet Mr. Mudd!
Chris Mudd is proud to serve as the Music Teacher and Band Director for Neely’s Bend Middle School. He earned his degree in Music Education from the University of Louisville, and has since taught numerous high school and middle school band and music programs across the state of Kentucky, including Casey County High School (2019-2021), Nelson County High School (2018-2019), Stuart Middle School (2017-2018), Pleasure Ridge Park High School (2017-2018), Adair County High School (2013-2017), Glasgow High School (2014-2015), Barren County High School (2012-2014), and Ballard High School (2012-2014).
Mr. Mudd’s students have achieved such accolades as 3-time Bands of America Class A National Champion (2014, 2015, 2016), Kentucky State Champion (2015 Governor’s Cup), Kentucky State Finalist (2013-2017), and Bands of America Regional Champion. His percussion ensembles consistently receive distinguished ratings and “Best in Class” awards. Mr. Mudd’s professional affiliations include the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), National Education Association (NEA), Kentucky Educators Association (KEA), Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA), and he is a member of Music for All.
Above all, Mr. Mudd finds fulfillment in knowing that his students will go on to be lifelong learners and leaders in the adult world.
