Our Story

Mr. Brett Farris is a graduate of Western Carolina University where he earned a B.M. and B.S.Ed in Music Education. While at WCU, Mr. Farris studied bass trombone and performed with their Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Trombone Ensemble, Brass Quintet, AIR Orchestra, and has performed with the Brevard Philharmonic. He was also a member of the prestigious “Pride of the Mountains” marching band where he served as the Low Brass Caption TA, and the Drum Corps International group Spirit of Atlanta where he performed on contrabass. Mr. Farris currently serves as the Director of Bands at Porter Ridge High School. Throughout his career he has established successful programs both on marching fields and in concert halls. His ensembles frequently earn high ratings during fall and winter marching competitions, and Superior ratings at MPA. Mr. Farris is a resident of Concord, North Carolina alongside his dogs, miniature dachshunds named Otis and Peppa, and his wife, Mason. Mr. Farris also enjoys spending his free time with his family, playing video games, and disc golfing.

Abigail McAninch is the assistant band director at Porter Ridge High School, embarking on her first year with the Band of Pirates. She holds a degree in music education from Western Carolina University, where she was a member of the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band and served as Vice President of the WCU Flute Society. Abigail was also involved with the WCU Collegiate NAfME Chapter, advocating for music education and promoting its importance within the community. Outside of music, she enjoys baking, crocheting, and spending time with her family pets, Rocky the dog and Mo the cat. Abigail is thrilled to inspire and share her passion for music with her students.

Matthew Dowell is excited to join the Porter Ridge band staff this year as the Director of Bands at Porter Ridge Middle School. He graduated from Appalachian State University in 2009 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and studied trombone with Dr. Harold McKinney and conducting with Dr. John Ross and Dr. Scott Tobias. Throughout his career, Mr. Dowell’s middle and high school ensembles have consistently achieved superior ratings at adjudicated performances and championship titles in marching band. His students have earned placement in District and State Honor Bands, and he was named ‘Teacher of the Year’ in 2018-2019. Outside of the band room, Mr. Dowell enjoys hiking, traveling and spending time with his family and dog, Theo.