M U S I C IN THE M O U N TA I N S by Stacey Walters Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian mountains, the University of Pikeville is a destination for the arts, allowing its students an opportunity to thrive, learn and find their passion. In company with long-serving Professor of Music Phillip Todd Westgate, DMA, UPIKE recently named Trevor Bailey as the new director of bands, Mike Bell and Michelle Rutherford as assistant directors of bands, and John Eric Rutherford, DMA as its new associate professor/director of choral and commercial vocal music studies.
This musical team’s collaboration and commitment will be “instrumental” in the fine arts program’s growth at the university. Westgate states that music has been a part of UPIKE for decades and the band and choir student groups have been carefully kept in the institution’s tradition. Early administrations at UPIKE purchased Steinway Model B pianos and a Sabathil and Son harpsichord. A Kilgen pipe organ was installed in the Wickham Chapel in 1927 by Mary Ellen Warren Wickham in her husband Delos’ memory.
“The care that music was given early on by the university reflects the rich musical tapestry of Appalachia,” said Westgate. “One of the ways we see this love and respect for music is by the historical inventory of pianos at the university.”
UPIKE Provost Lori Werth, Ph.D., says she believes Bailey displays extraordinary leadership abilities and a deep desire to engage and positively impact students.
Assisting Bailey is Michelle Rutherford who has 14 years of music teaching experience and holds a bachelor’s in music education from Otterbein University and a master’s in music from Kansas State University. Michelle is excited to join the team and sees endless possibilities for the music programs at UPIKE. Bell has 24 years of music teaching experience and received a bachelor’s in music education and a master’s in secondary education from Morehead State University and holds a master’s in theological studies from Liberty University.
Bailey is honored to serve as the director of bands.
Bell is thankful that UPIKE understands the importance of providing an opportunity for students to continue to pursue their passion for music.
Bailey received his bachelor’s in music performance from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, La., and earned a master’s in music education from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Eric Rutherford has 15 years of teaching experience. He holds a bachelor’s in music education from Otterbein University, a master’s in music from Northwestern
“My goals are to provide a safe learning environment and help students become the best version of themselves,” said Bailey, “and will continue to bring a high level of musical excellence to the campus, community and the Appalachian region.”
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UPIKE MAGAZINE | FALL/WINTER 2020
“I am fortunate to be a part of the UPIKE band program and work with some of the most talented and gifted students,” said Bell. “Music for many Eastern Kentucky kids is much more than just a band or choir class; it is an opportunity for them to be creative and showcase their talents.”
