The Alabama Music Educators Association (AMEA) is proud to announce Stuart Tankesley as the new President-Elect of the organization.
Stuart brings 18 years of outstanding service as a music educator, band director, clinician, and leader in music education across Alabama. His deep commitment to students, teachers, and the profession, combined with his strong record of leadership, makes him an excellent choice to serve AMEA in this important role.
Dedicated Music Educator and Leader
Since 2017, Stuart Tankesley has served as Director of Bands at Huntsville High School. Prior to this position, he was the Assistant Band Director and Choir Director at Discovery Middle School and the first Assistant Band Director and Choir Director at James Clemens High School when it opened in 2012. He also taught general music at Faucett Vestavia Elementary School and has served as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
Tankesley earned both his Bachelor of Science (2006) and Master of Arts (2008) degrees from the University of Alabama.
He is the founder of Madison Music Camp, a popular summer program serving over 200 middle school students in the Huntsville area. Under his leadership, students have had exceptional opportunities, including performing in the London New Year’s Day Parade (twice), appearing at the CBDNA Southern Division Conference, Music for All Concert Festival, and AMEA Conference. He also served as an instructor on a month-long performing tour of China with Madison Jazz.
In addition to his work with school bands, Stuart has conducted orchestras, served as music director for numerous community musicals in the Huntsville area, and worked as a fill-in conductor for the Huntsville Youth Orchestra. He is an alumnus of the Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps.
Leadership and Service
Stuart has been actively involved in state music organizations. He recently served as Alabama Bandmasters Association District Chairman for District One and is currently the Alabama Orchestra Association North District Chair. In 2024, he was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity.
His passion for music education and proven leadership will serve AMEA well as he prepares to guide the organization as President.
AMEA warmly congratulates Stuart Tankesley on his election as President-Elect. We look forward to his continued leadership and the positive impact he will have on music education throughout Alabama.