Carl McCraney
Award-winning music educator Carl McCraney has joined the Henderson State University music faculty as an adjunct professor of trumpet. McCraney, a Henderson alumnus, just started his 30th year of teaching. He is currently the junior high band director at Lakeside Public Schools, where he also conducts the high school jazz band.
As a member of the Arkansas Bandmasters Association, McCraney was just honored as the 2025 Arkansas Bandmaster of the Year, and will serve as the ABA president for 2025-26.
McCraney received his Bachelor of Music Education from Henderson in 1996, and his Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. Before teaching at Lakeside Junior High School, he directed the Prescott High School Band where it earned the 2016 state marching band title.
“Henderson State University is a very special place that holds so many great memories,” McCraney said. “This is where I met my wife, and where my oldest daughter attended and received her bachelor’s degree.”
“The education I received from Henderson State prepared me for a successful career as a band director. It is very rewarding to be able to give back to a place that has given my wife and me so much.”
“We are delighted to welcome Carl McCraney back to Henderson State University,” said Dr. Trey Berry, Henderson State chancellor. “As an accomplished educator and respected leader in Arkansas music education, Carl brings not only exceptional expertise in trumpet performance, but also a deep understanding of what it takes to inspire and train the next generation of music educators. His presence on our faculty will greatly enrich our music program and strengthen our commitment to excellence in the arts.”
Nevada Mills, director of bands at Henderson, said, “Carl will bring the knowledge of not only the trumpet, but also as a band director in general. A lot of our lessons are aimed at prepping students to be good players, along with prepping them to teach and create good young musicians. Carl will provide both of those aspects. We look forward to having him join the music faculty.”
McCraney is a member of the 106th Army Band where he plays trumpet and string bass and conducts the Ceremonial Band. He is also a member of the Arkansas School Band and Orchestra Association, Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, and a past member of the National Band Association.
Henderson State University offers the Bachelor of Music degree in instrumental, keyboard, or vocal education as well as a general Bachelor of Arts degree in music. Performance scholarships are available. For information, please visit hsu.edu/music.
