Natalie L. Haslam College of Music

Archives for May 2024

Music Meets Media: UT College of Music and UT College of Communication & Information Partner in Two New BA Programs for Fall 2024 

by

In a groundbreaking collaboration between the UT College of Music (COM) and the UT College of Communication & Information (CCI), two innovative Bachelor of Arts degree concentrations are set to redefine the intersection of creativity and communication.  

Designed to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving arts and entertainment industry, the music advertising & public relations BA program and the music journalism & media BA program offer students a unique opportunity to blend their passion for music with specialized skills in advertising, public relations, journalism, and media. 

“These two BA programs stand out for their precise focus on music advertising and public relations and music journalism and media, distinctions crafted through our partnership with CCI,” said Brendan McConville, COM interim associate dean of academic and faculty affairs. “While music media programs exist elsewhere, our niche lies in the precision and specialization of these concentrations. We’re grateful to CCI for their collaboration in creating these unique offerings.” 

CCI Dean Joseph Mazer emphasized the significance of this collaboration between the two colleges, positioning UT as a leader in the entertainment and media industries with impacts beyond campus.  

“These new, innovative programs speak to the collaborative spirit across UT,” said Dean Joseph Mazer. “Communication skills are vital in the music industry, and with this partnership, we are ensuring students receive a comprehensive education that equips them to excel in this dynamic field.”  

Not only are these types of degree programs unique nationally, but similar programs at other institutions often require an audition as part of the application process. At UT, that barrier is removed, and students are only required to interview as part of the application process.  

“What we found is that many students who are interested in pursuing careers in the entertainment industry may not necessarily be skilled in an instrument or trained in voice. We don’t want to deter students from following their passion and career aspirations because they fear they would not do well during an audition process,” said McConville.  

Though students will take classes in both colleges, their home will be with the COM. The COM has hired a dedicated Director of Music Business and Communications, Juan Carlos “JC” Quintero, to join the ranks of its faculty as a professor of practice in fall 2024. Quintero, a world-renown jazz musician and recording artist, has over 40 years in the entertainment industry working with top-tier music collaborators and music labels.  

The innovative mindset of COM leadership, faculty and campus partners is what Jeffrey Pappas, the COM Natalie L. Haslam Founding Dean, thinks sets UT apart.  

“When our college was established last year, the university acknowledged the significance of music in Tennessee and our potential to enrich music and economy. Through meaningful campus partnerships like this, we aim to make a positive impact in our state,” said Pappas. “We’re poised to contribute significantly to the future of music in Tennessee and beyond.” 

Those interested in learning more about the music BA programs can visit the music in advertising and public relations concentration webpage and the music in journalism and media concentration webpage on the COM website. 

UT Music’s Melinda Crecelius-Lanham and James Fellenbaum Honored at 2024 Honors Banquet

by

Melinda Crecelius-Lanham, Director of Advising, and James Fellenbaum, Associate Professor of Conducting and Director of Orchestras, were celebrated on Wednesday night at the 2024 University of Tennessee’s Honors Banquet.  

Each spring, UT takes the opportunity to acknowledge academic and professional excellence. These awards spotlight individuals who embody the Volunteer spirit through remarkable research and creative endeavors, impactful contributions to campus life, and exemplary leadership and service, both within the university and beyond. 

Crecelius-Lanham was honored for her Excellence in Advising, a distinction bestowed by the Office of the Chancellor and the Teaching Council of the Faculty Senate to honor outstanding advising work. Melina serves as the inaugural Director of Advising for the COM. 

“Being a Volunteer means stretching yourself and stepping beyond the bounds of comfort to gain a deeper understanding of self and the world. In doing so, we are better equipped and ready to support others in doing the same. The breadth and depth of UT’s investment in student success is unlike any other that I’ve seen elsewhere,” said Crecelius-Lanham. 

Fellenbaum, Associate Professor of Conducting and Director of Orchestras, received the Research and Creative Achievement honor. This award recognizes senior faculty members for their excellence in research, scholarship, and creative achievement. Fellenbaum not only oversees and conducts the Orchestra program but is also the Resident Conductor of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, the Music Director of the Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestra, Principal Guest Conductor of Bugs Bunny at the Symphony, and Artistic Director of the Brevard Philharmonic, NC. 

“Since I joined UT, the sense of community, resources, excellent and supportive leadership, and outstanding faculty colleagues have allowed me to flourish as a conductor and develop the UT Orchestra Program to become an example of performance and education excellence. Being a Vol has meant a lot to me – I get to share my love of music, I am blessed with a wonderful family that started here in Knoxville, and I look forward to contributing back to a community that has given me so much,” said Fellenbaum. 

Those interested in learning more about the Academic Honors Banquet and various awards can visit the Academic Honors Banquet website. 

Special mention: We would also like to congratulate Joesph Beller, a UT senior double majoring in Physics and Applied Music, for being honored as the 2024 Undergraduate Researcher of the Year for his work in the UT Physics department.