Corey Pompey
UW Marching Band, Mead Witter School of Music

It may have been the exceedingly rare opportunity to lead the legendary University of Wisconsin Marching Band that brought Corey Pompey to Madison, but he’s embraced numerous other roles including Associate Director of Bands, Concert Band conductor, and instructor to aspiring music education majors. “I wear a few hats, so there is always something happening,” says Pompey, who’s looking forward to celebrating the Mead Witter School of Music’s 130th anniversary all year — particularly with the Panorama Concert, three Concert Band performances, and the 50th Spring Varsity Band Concert. “I don’t think most people realize the breadth of arts offerings here,” Pompey says, noting that more than half of Mead Witter students are double majors, enhancing their studies with a variety of arts and non-arts opportunities. “They are deeply engaged with the world and strive to make art that contributes to the betterment of society. There is truly a place for anyone who wants to engage meaningfully with the arts.”

This profile was pulled from a Why Wisconsin? article by Maggie Ginsberg that was originally posted on January 29, 2026.