Chad grew up in Russellville, Arkansas playing trumpet in the school band. He also played drums in a rock band, which he continues to perform with today. He graduated from Russellville High School and began working in his family’s trucking business; however, his love of music drew him towards a different profession. His life long friendship with Hal opened the door as an Apprentice Repairman over twenty years ago. He honed his skills and ultimately became a Master Brass Repairman. In 2005, he was named the Shop Foreman, where he oversees all activities in the shop and provides the ultimate in customer service.

Clay brings an incredible work ethic and warm personality to our staff, after three decades of serving as a dedicated band director. He received his BME from Arkansas Tech University and MME with an emphasis in conducting from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music. Clay has served as a major role in the band community, being an active adjudicator and clinician throughout Arkansas, past president of The Arkansas International Association for Jazz Education, and having helped form the new chapter of Arkansas Jazz Educators. In Clay’s spare time, he loves to hike, cook, and smoke cigars with his wife, Julie. He also has five daughters, a grandson, and two dogs.

Kelsey is a graduate of University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Arkansas, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in Strategic Communication. Before finding a home at Cooper Music, she worked as a communications assistant at Ozarks Outdoors and an English tutor for Student Support Services at her university; both positions helped her develop important skills in the customer service and marketing fields. Kelsey also designs and maintains our website, a skill and passion she has had since she was 8 years old. In her down time, she enjoys playing video games, studying languages, and playing piano.