Natalie L. Haslam College of Music

Professor Hillary Herndon Honored with UT’s Thomas Jefferson Prize 

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Hillary Herndon, professor of viola at the University of Tennessee Natalie L. Haslam College of Music, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Thomas Jefferson Prize, one of the highest faculty honors bestowed by the university. 

Presented during last week’s Academic Honors Banquet, the Thomas Jefferson Prize recognizes tenured or tenure-track faculty members for distinguished achievement in research and creative activity, especially in disciplines where securing external funding is limited. The award includes a $6,000 annual stipend for up to three years.  

The Academic Honors Banquet, established in 2021, celebrates the achievements of UT Knoxville’s faculty, staff, and students. The awards highlight those who embody the Volunteer spirit through excellence in research, creative activity, leadership, and service to the campus community. 

Herndon, an internationally recognized violist, has built a reputation for her expressive artistry, insightful pedagogy, and advocacy for underrepresented voices in classical music. Time Out New York has praised her “sweetly soaring tone,” and she has performed with world-renowned artists including Itzhak Perlman, who once described her as “having it all… a gifted teacher and an excellent musician.” 

In addition to her three acclaimed solo recordings on MSR Classics—La Viola, American Voices, and 1919: Hidden Treasures from an Epoch Year—Herndon has appeared on NPR and PBS and led master classes around the world, including at Carnegie Hall, Juilliard, and the Sibelius Academy in Finland. 

Herndon joined the UT faculty in 2003 and has been a driving force behind new initiatives within the college. She is the founder of the annual Viola Celebration and co-founder of Mosaic Music Publications, which curate’s anthologies for string students featuring composers from historically underrepresented communities. In 2023, Mosaic released The Beginning series for solo and ensemble strings featuring works by Black and Latino composers. 

“Being a Volunteer means asking how we can help when we see an area of need,” Herndon said. “One of the things I appreciate most about being at the UT College of Music is the support to help tackle new projects, no matter how far outside the ‘traditional way of doing things’ they may be.”

In recent years, Herndon’s leadership and service have extended beyond campus. She served as president of the American Viola Society from 2020 to 2023, receiving the organization’s Distinguished Service Award in 2024. That same year, she was named an Individual Artist Fellow by the Tennessee Arts Commission and received the Creative/Scholarly Achievement Award from the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music. She now serves as executive director of the Sewanee Summer Music Festival. 

For more information about the Thomas Jefferson Prize and the Academic Honors Banquet, please visit https://liveutk.sharepoint.com/sites/provost/SitePages/Thomas-Jefferson-Prize-winner.aspx. 

UT Music Student Avery Noe named recipient of the Presser Foundation’s Undergraduate Scholar Award 

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The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is proud to announce that Avery Noe, a senior double majoring in musicology and history with minors in music theory and applied music, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Presser Foundation’s Undergraduate Scholar Award for 2025. 

The Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award is presented annually by the Presser Foundation to a select student with exceptional academic and musical achievement. To further the Presser Foundation’s mission to provide philanthropic support for music and music education, its Undergraduate Scholar Award provides financial support to help foster the recipient’s continued studies and growth in the field of music. It recognizes musical excellence, leadership, and academic performance. The funds can be used for degree-related expenses or additional musical opportunities. 

Noe, who has been playing double bass since the age of 10, has made significant contributions to the UT music community during her time as a student. Originally a double major in geology and applied music, Noe discovered her true passion for music history and pivoted to pursue a career in the field. She has since excelled in her academic and musical pursuits, including presenting research on Frédéric Chopin at the 2024 Harvard Graduate Music Conference and gaining valuable performance experience in diverse musical genres. 

“It’s a huge honor to be named the Presser Scholar,” Noe said. “When I got the announcement, I immediately called my mom to celebrate! It’s been an amazing experience studying music at UT, and I’m grateful for the mentorship I’ve received along the way.” 

Throughout her undergraduate studies, Noe has also been involved in the Appalachian String Band, a group that has shaped her growth as a musician. Her work with the ensemble, including performances at notable events like the 2024 Pellissippi Bluegrass Showcase and the 2025 Jubilee Festival, has deepened her appreciation for the cultural significance of bluegrass music. 

Reflecting on her time with the Appalachian String Band, Noe said, “Being in the ensemble for three years after having no background in bluegrass or folk was such a rewarding experience. It completely changed how I think about music and how it’s made. It’s also been a special way for me to connect with my family’s roots in Tennessee. My Papaw used to tell me stories about his father being a fiddler, and now I get to carry that tradition forward.” 

Noe credits her success to the mentorship she’s received from faculty members such as Professors Mary Campbell, David Salkowski, Jon Hamar, and Beau Gaitors, who have guided her in research, performance, and historical writing. “Each of them has shaped my academic journey in such a meaningful way,” Noe said. “Professor Salkowski, in particular, helped me refine my research on Chopin, teaching me how to frame historical stories better and approach my work with an open mind. The research I did for my honors thesis has really shaped how I approach history now.” 

Additionally, Noe is passionate about using music as a tool for building community and documenting history. “Music is a way we can document the experiences of marginalized people in more personal and humanistic ways. Art has been an outlet for the voices that history sometimes overlooks, and music plays an essential role in preserving those stories.” 

After graduation, Noe will be leaving Tennessee to embark on the next chapter of her academic journey in California. She has recently accepted an offer to join Stanford University’s PhD program in Musicology. With aspirations to both teach and conduct research after earning her PhD, Noe’s deep commitment to music and academic excellence has laid a solid foundation for her future success. The recognition she has received from the Presser Foundation further highlights her outstanding achievements and marks a significant milestone in her promising career. 

For more information about the Presser Foundation’s Undergraduate Scholar Award, visit The Presser Foundation’s website. 

Professor Hillary Herndon Appointed as Director of Sewanee Summer Music Festival 

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The University of Tennessee’s Natalie L. Haslam College of Music is proud to announce that Professor Hillary Herndon, professor of viola, has been appointed as the new director of the Sewanee Summer Music Festival. Herndon will assume the role following a successful tenure as the festival’s associate director from 2018 to 2024. 

The Sewanee Summer Music Festival, renowned for its commitment to artistic excellence and nurturing the next generation of musicians, is excited to welcome Herndon in her new leadership position. Herndon’s extensive experience in music education, performance, and festival management uniquely positions her to elevate the festival’s offerings and expand its impact within the music community. 

Herndon has been a prominent figure at the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music, where she has inspired students with her passion for music and dedication to their development. Her leadership at the Sewanee Summer Music Festival will be instrumental in shaping its future, continuing its tradition of providing exceptional musical experiences for both participants and audiences. 

The Sewanee Summer Music Festival is celebrated for its comprehensive approach to music education, offering a diverse array of masterclasses, performances, and collaborative opportunities. Under Herndon’s leadership, the festival is set to build on its storied history and introduce innovative programs that will benefit aspiring musicians and the broader arts community. 

“The Sewanee Summer Music Festival has been my summer home for more than 12 years, and it is a great honor to step into the Executive and Artistic Director position,” said Herndon. “Through my years of experience as a studio teacher here at UT, as well as a faculty member at the Sewanee Festival, I have had a front row seat to hear what students are looking for in their summer studies, and how festivals can help them reach their goals. I look forward to having the opportunity to make the SSMF an even better program for our young musicians while continuing to offer the amazing concerts our audiences have come to love.” 

For more information about the Sewanee Summer Music Festival and Professor Hillary Herndon’s new role, visit the Sewanee Summer Music Festival’s website. 

Professor Jorge Variego Named FY25 Music Fellow 

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The UT Natalie L. Haslam College of Music is thrilled to announce that Jorge Variego, professor of music and technology, has been honored with the FY25 Individual Artist Fellowship in Music Composition by the Tennessee Arts Commission. This award celebrates Variego’s outstanding achievements in contemporary music composition and his significant contributions to the arts community. 

The Individual Artist Fellowship is awarded to artists who demonstrate exceptional skill and innovation in their field. Variego’s selection underscores his remarkable talent and his ability to create music that resonates with audiences and critics alike. This accolade highlights his role as a leading figure in the world of contemporary composition. 

Growing up immersed in the music of Astor Piazzolla and Argentine folklore, Variego’s work resonates with characteristic rhythmic structures and harmonic colors that reflect his diverse musical upbringing. Variego is celebrated for his distinctive compositional voice and his ability to blend various musical traditions into innovative works. His compositions have been performed by prominent ensembles and orchestras worldwide, reflecting his significant impact on contemporary music.  

“In an incredibly musical state like Tennessee, this recognition is quite humbling and comes in as a special moment in my professional career,” said Variego. 

For more information about the Tennessee Arts Commission, visit https://tnartscommission.org/ 

Professor Hillary Herndon Honored with Distinguished Service Award by American Viola Society 

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In recognition of her exceptional contributions and leadership in the field of music, Hillary Herndon, professor of viola at the UT Natalie L. Haslam College of Music, has been awarded the prestigious Distinguished Service Award by the American Viola Society (AVS). The award was presented to her during the recent American Viola Society Festival held in June, where she was celebrated for her outstanding dedication and stewardship while serving as the organization’s president from 2020 – 2023. 

Reflecting on her journey, Professor Herndon said, “It is difficult to explain exactly what this award means to me without explaining a little of my own history… When I was asked to consider running for President of the American Viola Society, I had some concerns. At the time I was pregnant with twins and was concerned that maintaining my work at UT alongside the demands of becoming a first-time mother – to multiples, nonetheless, would prevent me from giving the AVS the time it would require.” 

Her presidency, which began amidst challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and financial issues within the organization, marked a transformative period for AVS. “It took a year of updating bylaws and searching for a new treasurer, recreating a budget and many more challenges before we could begin to look at instituting new programs,” she said. Under her leadership, the society launched initiatives such as a recording label for violists, mini-grants for educators, and a comprehensive online presence, among other innovations. 

“I am so thankful to all of those who were willing to go along with my ideas, help improve them and implement them,” Professor Herndon said. Her collaborative efforts extended beyond the AVS to include the Mosaic Project at UT, supported by grants from the Sphinx Organization and the National Endowment for the Arts, aimed at promoting music composed by Black and Latino composers. 

Upon receiving the Distinguished Service Award, Professor Herndon said, “This award has provided an opportunity for me to reflect on that moment when I considered NOT running for president, and to internalize that with support from colleagues, your family and peers we can make great things happen, even when the prospect is daunting.” 

For more information about the American Viola Society, visit americanviolasociety.org

Mehrenegar Rostami Joins UT’s Musicology Faculty

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The University of Tennessee College of Music proudly welcomes Mehrenegar Rostami to its musicology faculty for fall 2024. With a rich educational background and a passion for exploring the intricate connections between music and political philosophy, Rostami brings a unique perspective to the university’s faculty. 

Rostami’s academic journey began at the Art and Architecture branch of Azad University (BA field of music ‘04) in Tehran, Iran. There, she laid the foundation for her future studies in musicology, setting the stage for a remarkable academic career that would take her across the globe. 

Her thirst for knowledge led her to the city of Salzburg, Austria, where she delved into musicology and dance studies at Paris Lodron University. Continuing her academic journey, Rostami attended Memorial University of Newfoundland (MA ethnomusicology ‘13) in Canada. Her thesis, a meticulous analysis of Kayhan Kalhor’s “Silent City,” offered not only a historical and musicological examination but also served as a testament to her dedication to exploring the social and political underpinnings of musical compositions. 

Yet, it was at the University of California, Los Angeles (PhD ethnomusicology ‘23) that Rostami’s academic journey culminated. Under the mentorship of ethnomusicology professors Roger W. H. Savage and Timothy D. Taylor, she embarked on a groundbreaking research journey. Her doctoral dissertation, focusing on the complex interplay between music festivals and political ideologies in Central Asian and Middle Eastern countries, unveiled the profound ways in which music serves as a conduit for socio-political discourse. For her doctoral dissertation, she conducted extensive research around the world. “I conducted ethnographic fieldwork in Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Austria, Germany, and the U.S. between 2015 and 2022,” Rostami said. 

Upon joining the COM faculty, she brings with her a wealth of knowledge and a passionate dedication to her craft. She aims to inspire students to explore the transformative power of music across multiple cultures and contexts. “My goal as an ethnomusicologist in my teaching and research is to uncover the role music plays in constructing diverse forms of identities, how it gives meaning to people’s lives, and how it brings people together,” Rostami said. 

In her ongoing research endeavors, Rostami continues to push the boundaries of ethnomusicology. Rostami is currently preparing a paper for the 2024 Fonds Ricoeur’s Summer Workshops in Dublin, Ireland. “My paper examines the role remembering plays in promoting an ethos of intercultural hospitality. This ethos, as I argue, is the requisite condition for equitable intercultural exchanges,” Rostami said.  

Beyond academia, Rostami eagerly anticipates immersing herself in the vibrant community of Knoxville. “I am excited at the prospect of collaborating on a wide variety of musical, scholarly, and service-oriented projects with members of the UT community,” Rostami said. “I am also excited about Knoxville and looking forward to the ways I can contribute to the broader community in my role as educator, musician, and scholar.” 

UT College of Music’s Ryan Lindveit Named 2024 ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Award Recipient 

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The UT College of Music is proud to announce that Ryan Lindveit, Lecturer of Music Theory & Composition, has been named a recipient of the 2024 ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Award. This esteemed recognition celebrates the exceptional talent and creativity of young composers in the realm of concert music. 

Lindveit’s award-winning composition, enriched by collaboration with bass clarinet soloist Andrew Koeppe, reflects his profound musical journey. “Through collaboration with musicians, especially bass clarinet soloist Andrew Koeppe, I developed a musical language that feels like a very honest representation of my current musical and artistic interests. It is therefore especially gratifying that the work received external recognition from ASCAP,” Lindveit said. 

The composition,“Bass Clarinet Concerto”, was composed for a solo bass clarinet and wind ensemble, drawing inspiration from both nature and neuroscience. Specifically, it explores the visual parallels between neurons and tree branches. 

The ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards, established in 1979, are designed to encourage and support composers aged 14 to 29. The program, funded by The ASCAP Foundation Jack and Amy Norworth Fund, provides cash prizes to composers selected through a rigorous national competition.  

The ASCAP Foundation Young Composer program, dedicated to the memory of Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Morton Gould, honors his legacy of fostering young talent. Gould, a prodigy whose first composition was published at the age of six, served as President of ASCAP and The ASCAP Foundation, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. 

For more information about The ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Award, visit https://www.ascap.com/press/2024/06/06-05-morton-gould-winners. 

Renowned Guitarist/Music Executive Juan Carlos Quintero Joins UT College of Music

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Juan Carlos “JC” Quintero, an esteemed Latin jazz guitarist and music executive, is set to join the University of Tennessee College of Music as a professor of practice and Director of Music Communications and Business for fall 2024. Known for his adeptness in blending a career path as a recording artist, music producer and music executive, Quintero brings a unique perspective to the academic realm. His journey from student to accomplished musician and businessperson reflects a deep commitment to artistry and the practicalities of the music industry.  

Quintero’s academic journey began in Boston at the Berklee College of Music (BM Composition/Arranging ‘84). Reflecting on his time there, Quintero said, “The teaching emphasized real-world applications prepping you to be able to function as a working musician. Additionally, playing with accomplished students from all over the world while studying with esteemed faculty (Gary Burton, Michael Gibbs, Willian Leavitt, George Garzone, etc.) created a unique environment to grow musically.” 

Following his time at Berklee, Quintero further honed his composition skills at the New England Conservatory under the tutelage of George Russell, professor of jazz theoretician and publisher of “The Lydian Chromatic Concept.” However, Quintero’s path took an unexpected turn when he felt the irresistible call to pursue a record deal in Los Angeles. Interrupting his studies, and encouraged by Russell, he ventured to LA, where he quickly found success, getting signed within a year.  

“A lot of people thought I was a bit crazy leaving my graduate studies after a year, but the call to go to LA and pursue a record deal was something I couldn’t ignore,” Quintero said. His mentor, the legendary session guitarist Tommy Tedesco of The Wrecking Crew, played a crucial role in this decision. “Tommy took me under his wing and helped me get started as a journeyman guitar player for sessions and touring work. He was truly generous and was a mentor for me along with an impressive list of guitarists in the LA studio scene. His main advice was to focus on writing and pursue a career as a recording artist-A central moment was when he appeared as a featured guest on my first album,” Quintero said.  

Quintero’s transition to LA was marked by relentless pursuit. He recounted his method of obtaining contact information for labels and publishers. “I would get the phone numbers to these labels by going to the local library and reading from industry source books that were released semi-annually,” Quintero said. Quintero’s relentless pursuit of opportunities included cold calling and sending demo tapes to various labels, a practice he described as capitalizing on a “brief little window” of naivety. Despite facing multiple rejections, Quintero’s charm and persistence paid off, with some industry insiders recognizing his potential and offering him a chance.  

With a record deal secured, Quintero’s career flourished, leading him to consistently chart on the Jazz Top 10 with a steady stream of album releases. As a Latin Jazz artist, Quintero discovered the benefits of managing his career by owning master and publishing rights and launching his own label (Moondo Music LLC) while assigning distribution rights internationally.

Along the way, opportunities to consult and manage music rights for TV production music companies bloomed as IP rights holders navigated new business models built on evolving streaming platforms. Integral roles as a creative music producer/executive followed allowing JC to merge creative producing skills alongside business knowledge. 

Now, as Quintero transitions to academia, he aims to enrich the UT College of Music with his unique music skills and business experience by leading the new music business, music advertising and public relations, and music journalism and media degrees. He sees an opportunity to bridge the gap between music and other disciplines, envisioning a program that attracts not just musicians but also future lawyers, publicists, and marketers.  

Quintero’s vision for the College of Music extends beyond traditional boundaries, emphasizing collaboration and interdisciplinary learning. “How great is it that music students will be in class, sitting next to the future lawyer, sitting next to the future publicist, or sitting next to someone they didn’t think they would interact with,” Quintero said. “The classes themselves are poised to become sort of like mini conventions where networking is essential as the scope of knowledge and experience remains boundless.” 

Jennifer Salamone Joins UT College of Music Faculty 

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The University of Tennessee’s College of Music proudly announces the addition of Jennifer Salamone to its music theory faculty for fall 2024. With a strong background in music education and dedication to community engagement, Salamone brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her new role. 

Salamone attended the University of Hartford’s The Hartt School (BM voice ‘10). She furthered her studies with both a master’s degree and PhD in music theory from the University of Kentucky, solidifying her expertise in the field. Her commitment to teaching led her to a teaching fellowship at the Oberlin Conservatory for two years, followed by three years as a visiting faculty member. She then spent three transformative years at Florida Gulf Coast University as the Assistant Professor of Music Theory and Aural Skills. 

The COM’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment drew Salamone to her new role. “I am really excited to be able to teach more diverse classes,” Salamone said. Her dedication to broadening musical perspectives aligns seamlessly with the COM’s values, making her an ideal addition to the faculty. 

This fall, Salamone will teach graduate theory, displaying her expertise in music theory and pedagogy. However, her passion extends beyond the confines of traditional academia. Salamone is actively involved in music therapy as a vital aspect of treatment for individuals undergoing substance abuse rehabilitation. 

“We are looking to integrate music therapy into their interventions, specifically bluegrass and Appalachian music,” Salamone said. She envisions therapeutic interventions that incorporate culturally relevant music, providing patients with skills in instruments like the banjo and guitar.”

“The bluegrass communities are quite robust,” Salamone said. “When they step down to either intensive outpatient or step out of the program entirely, they have a skill set that allows them to integrate into the community in a really healthy way.” 

Salamone’s dedication to community integration extends to her plans for the COM. She envisions creating a mini-term course focused on topics such as music therapy or exploring the history of Black spirituals, further enriching the curriculum, and fostering inclusivity. 

“The University seems to be deeply integrated into the community, and I am really excited about that,” Salamone said. “I am looking forward to being in a place where not only can I be integrated into the University community, but also into the local community.” 

For Salamone, the heart of her work lies in her students. “Whenever I move to a new position, what I always look forward to most is meeting new students,” Salamone said. “The best part of the job is always the students, no matter where I go.” 

As the COM continues to embrace its exciting new designation as a college, Salamone is eager to contribute to its growth and development. “The college is in a great spot in terms of enrollment and growth,” Salamone said. “I look forward to meeting new colleagues and catching the vibe of how everyone functions and seeing how I can fit in and how I can help.” 

Taber Gable Joins UT’s College of Music Jazz Faculty 

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The University of Tennessee’s College of Music welcomes a new addition to its jazz faculty for fall 2024: Taber Gable, a renowned jazz pianist and educator. Gable’s musical journey traces back to his formative years, where the eclectic sounds of his parents’ record collection ignited a passion that would shape his career.  

“My first encounter with music was my parents’ record collection,” said Gable. “To be honest, any member of my family could’ve made a great living with music.”  

Guided by curiosity, 11-year-old Gable immersed himself in music, eventually finding his way to Knoxville’s Joy of Music School. Founded in 1998, this nonprofit organization offers free music lessons and instruments to children and teens who lack the means. Under the mentorship of former UT Jazz faculty like Donald Brown and Jerry Coker, Gable honed his craft and discovered the transformative power of jazz. In 2015 after earning his bachelor’s degree, Taber Gable returned to the school to perform a benefit concert, expressing gratitude for the opportunities it provided him. 

“I often sing the praises of what we have here in Knoxville,” said Gable. “One of my hopes and dreams with this opportunity at the University of Tennessee College of Music is to further connect the community in music and arts.”  

Gable attended the University of Hartford’s Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz (BM jazz piano ‘14) and was the first full scholarship recipient of the Hartt Performing Arts Scholarship. He continued his academic studies at The Juilliard School (MM jazz studies ‘16) under Wynton Marsalis, the director of Juilliard Jazz. 

As an educator, Gable emphasizes the importance of musical versatility, citing jazz as a foundational genre that prepares students for success across musical landscapes.  

“I believe jazz is one of the few styles that prepares you to communicate effectively in other genres of music,” said Gable. “It helps you learn to adapt quickly and navigate different musical challenges.”   

In addition to his teaching duties, Gable remains active in his artistic endeavors with a sophomore album slated for release later this year and plans to tour both nationally and internationally. Additionally, you can tune into Taber’s weekly radio show, Improvisations, on WUOT 91.9 FM every Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m., where he shares the latest and greatest in jazz.  

He looks forward to sharing his experiences and expertise with the next generation of musicians, fostering a legacy of creativity and innovation within UT’s College of Music.  

“I think one of the most recent beautiful moments I can remember is running into Donald Brown at a musical festival in Claremont-Ferrand, France and being able to talk shop with him backstage where we both played the festival,” Taber said. “I felt the full circle bond from a student to teacher and vice versa. I would love to one day share that same experience with one of my students to be proud and see the future in good hands.”