Juan Carlos “JC” Quintero, a renowned Latin jazz guitarist and music executive, will join the University of Tennessee College of Music as a professor of practice and Director of Music Communications and Business in fall 2024. Quintero brings over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry, collaborating with top music labels and serving as “Head of Music” executive for Los Angeles based animation and live action production studios like Genius Brands International, Kartoon Studios Inc., Funrise Inc. and most notably Haim Saban’s Saban Brands Inc. His extensive career spans roles such as music producer, label head, music executive, production music producer, recording artist, studio musician, and educator. With over 12 albums released, Quintero frequently appears in Top 10 industry charts.

Quintero’s music career began at the Berklee College of Music, where he studied under esteemed faculty and honed his skills in composition and arranging. His education continued at the New England Conservatory with jazz theoretician George Russell, until the allure of a record deal led him to Los Angeles. Encouraged by his mentor, legendary session guitarist Tommy Tedesco, Quintero swiftly found success, signing a record deal within a year.

Quintero’s move to LA was marked by persistence and ingenuity, as he navigated the music industry through relentless networking and cold calling. His efforts paid off, leading to a successful career with consistent chart-topping albums. Quintero’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch his own label, Moondo Music LLC, allowing him to retain ownership of his master and publishing rights.

Beyond his recording career, Quintero has made significant contributions as a music rights consultant and creative music producer, navigating the evolving landscape of streaming platforms and IP rights.

At UT, Quintero aims to enrich the College of Music by leading new degrees in music business, music advertising and public relations, and music journalism and media. He envisions a program that fosters interdisciplinary learning, attracting not only musicians but also future lawyers, publicists, and marketers. Quintero’s vision emphasizes collaboration and networking, creating an environment where diverse talents can thrive together.

“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.”

JC Quintero’s extensive industry experience and visionary approach promise to bring a dynamic and practical perspective to the University of Tennessee College of Music.