Emily and Matt met while pursuing their Doctorates in music at the University of Alabama — a magical place where rehearsals and horn chaos (and Skip Snead) somehow brought these two people together. What started as a friendship built on horn, sarcastic banter, and picking on each other in Wind Ensemble quickly turned into something deeper. They became inseparable — duet partners, homework buddies, and eventually, life partners (with their cat Figaro keeping a close eye on it all).

Depending on who you ask, the turning point in their relationship varies. Matt swears it was the infamous golf cart accident that started it all when Emily stepped in to care for him, and everything suddenly started to click. Emily, on the other hand, will tell you it was those long Sunday nights in the TA office — her struggling through music theory homework(yuck) while Matt listened(sang loudly) through his favorite playlist. As you would assume, more talking than actual work was achieved on those nights.

Their journey hasn't always been easy, but they always have each other. Together, they worked to become healthier, supporting one another every step of the way — especially after Matt landed his dream job with the Pershing's Own Army Band. Through the challenges of Basic Combat Training, Emily was Matt’s unwavering rock. And, day in and day out, Matt is Emily’s.

Their story is one of friendship turned love, of music and laughter, of strength, patience, and Figaro-approved companionship. And now, they can’t wait to start the next chapter — together — surrounded by the people who’ve supported and loved them along the way.