Mr. Whaley was awarded the Bachelor of Music degree with honors from East Carolina University in 1986. Following 3 years as Director of Bands at Gates County High School, he attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania. While at IUP, he served as the Graduate Conducting Associate, studying with Dr. Jack Stamp. During his time in Pennsylvania he also served as Director of the Johnstown Youth Symphony. Indiana University of Pennsylvania awarded him the Master of Music degree in 1991. His additional studies include participation in master classes lead by Eugene Migliaro Corporon, Donald Hunsberger, Craig Kirchoff and Allan McMurray.
As a performer, on French horn, Mr. Whaley can be heard on all compact disc recordings of the Keystone Wind Ensemble, and in his regular performances with the Wilmington, NC Symphony and other smaller regional ensembles.
As a writer, Mr. Whaley has written professional articles that have been published in both Band Directors’ Guide and Young Band Directors’ Guide.
As a composer, Mr. Whaley has composed and arranged a number of works that have been performed by ensembles throughout the mid-Atlantic region.
Since 1992 Mr. Whaley has been Director of Bands at Trexler Middle School in Richlands, North Carolina. Under his leadership, Trexler bands have consistently received Excellent and Superior ratings at contest and festival events. In 1995, he was selected as Trexler’s Teacher of the Year. In 2007 one of the Trexler bands was selected to perform for the Commander’s College Graduate Recognition Ceremony aboard Camp Lejeune, as a substitute for the 2nd Marine Division Band, as they were forward deployed to Iraq. The Trexler Band received a letter of commendation from the Base commander for their performance at this event.
Mr. Whaley truly enjoys sharing his love of music, and regularly participates in presentations and panel discussions as well as, guest conducting with his musical colleagues across North Carolina.
Mr. Whaley is married to Teresa Whaley and has two children Ian and Claire.
