North Valley Music School appoints new program director

North Valley Music School (NVMS) is proud to announce that Taylor Ackley, PhD, as its new program director. Dr. Ackley, a distinguished scholar, composer, and multi-instrumentalist, joins the NVMS leadership team at a pivotal time as the school celebrates its first year on its new campus at Smith Fields. 

Dr. Ackley brings an extraordinary depth of expertise to NVMS, holding a PhD in composition and a master's degree in ethnomusicology from Stony Brook University. A specialist in American Roots music, his work focuses on the intersections of folk music traditions, community music-making, and classical composition. He is the founder and director of the Deep Roots Ensemble and has previously served on the faculty at Brandeis University, where he was celebrated for his ability to build community through music and his "wildly popular" courses in American folk traditions. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Taylor to the NVMS family," said Deidre Corson, executive director of North Valley Music School. "His vision for music as a tool for community building perfectly aligns with our mission. As we expand into our new facility, Taylor’s unique ability to bridge the gap between classical excellence and accessible folk traditions will ensure our programming remains vibrant and inclusive for students of all ages." 

In his new role, Dr. Ackley will oversee the school’s diverse curriculum, faculty development, and community outreach initiatives. His arrival coincides with a period of historic growth for the school, following the successful completion of the $7.5 million "Be Instrumental" capital campaign. 

“As a person born and raised in the Flathead Valley, having a place like North Valley Music School that brings together artistic excellence and accessibility for our community is quite literally a dream come true,” Ackley said. “This corner of Northwestern Montana has long inspired incredible art and music, and I believe that North Valley Music School is leading the way in ensuring that legacy continues. My career has taken me all across the United States, but I have always been drawn back to the valley. To be able to return here and step into this role is such an honor.” 

The community is invited to welcome Dr. Ackley at the NVMS Spring Concert and Annual Meeting on May 18, where he will be introduced to the families, supporters and friends of the school.