Brian Coatney, born in Arlington, Texas, began studying the cello privately at a young age of five. He continued his music studies through out high school participating in Orchestra as well as playing percussion in numerous ensembles. After graduating from high school, Coatney pursued his music career at Northwestern State University where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in music education. In 2003, Coatney earned a Masters in Orchestral Conducting at James Madison University where he had the opportunity to study with Dr. Robert McCashin.

Mr. Coatney joined the Klein High School fine arts program in 2003 as the assistant Orchestra Director as well as conducted the Houston Youth Symphony Sinfonietta Orchestra. Mr. Coatney joined the Plano Senior High School fine arts team in 2007 as the Director of Orchestral Studies. During his tenure, the Plano Senior Orchestra continued its long tradition of success earning multiple Sweepstakes awards at UIL, Best in Class awards at national music competitions, and performed at the prestigious Mid-West International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago. The Plano Senior High Symphony Orchestra was chosen as the Honor Full Orchestra three times under Coatney’s direction in 2008, 2011 and most recently, 2014. In 2020, Coatney joined the Wylie ISD fine arts team as the director of orchestras at Wylie High School. The program has only been in existence for three years and Coatney is excited about the program growing and accomplishing performances that inspire audiences. Coatney was recognized in 2008 with the TexASTA Marjorie Keller Young teacher of the Year award. He is a proud member of the Texas Music Educators Association, Mu Omicron, and the professional music fraternity, Phi Mu Alpha.

Class Schedule

1st Period: Off Campus @ McMillan

2nd Period: Off Campus @ McMillan

3rd Period: Off Campus @ McMillan

4th Period: Chamber Orchestra

5th Period: Camerata Orchestra

6th Period: Philharmonic Orchestra

7th Period: Conference