UT Alumnus Named Executive Director of the Joy of Music School
Michael Ray, Natalie L. Haslam College of Music alumnus (MM Composition ‘24), has been appointed Executive Director of the Joy of Music School (JoM). Ray, who brings extensive experience in both music education and arts administration, steps into this leadership role following a comprehensive search.
Founded in 1998, the Joy of Music School is a nonprofit organization that provides free music education to youth in Knoxville, Tennessee. The school offers after-school programs, mentorship, and access to musical instruments, with a focus on serving students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Through its work, the school fosters a strong sense of community, helping students grow both personally and musically.
Ray previously served as Executive Director of the Jessye Norman School of the Arts in Augusta, Georgia, where he revitalized the school’s after-school programs, increasing the student base from 20 to more than 100. His background in education, arts management, and community engagement makes him well-suited to lead the Joy of Music School as it continues to serve the Knoxville area’s at-risk youth.
“We believe Michael’s experience in leadership, education, and arts administration, coupled with a deep passion for music and community engagement, positions him well to contribute to the continued success of The Joy of Music School,” said Jerry Greene, president of the school’s Board of Directors. “We are eager for him to bring his blend of experience, creativity, and strategic management to support the Joy of Music School’s mission and inspire positive change in the community.”
Ray’s journey to his new role is rooted in both his leadership experience and academic background. Reflecting on how his time at UT prepared him for this next step, he noted the challenges of balancing a full-time academic load, teaching responsibilities, and family life while completing his master’s degree.
“My time in the master’s program at UT was invaluable preparation for this role,” Ray said. “Even with more than 20 years in the workforce, my experiences as a graduate teaching assistant, full-time student, composer, and dad—adhering to tight deadlines—sharpened my ability to balance responsibilities, track details, and adapt to new challenges. These are essential skills in nonprofit leadership.”
Ray, who came into the UT program as a non-traditional student, previously worked as a music educator and nonprofit executive. Despite his prior experience, he found the demands of the UT program pushed him to refine his time management skills, both creatively and administratively.
“The program reinforced the importance of structure, planning ahead, and staying on top of deadlines—all crucial in running a nonprofit,” Ray said. “Creatively, it pushed me to think in new ways, refine my artistic skills, and keep the bigger picture always in sight.”
As an educator, Ray has directed award-winning choirs, coached championship ensembles, and mentored students in AP Music Theory. His leadership style draws from his experiences at UT, particularly the mentorship he received from Associate Professor of Music Composition, Andrew Sigler.
“Dr. Sigler’s relaxed yet profoundly engaged approach helped bring out the best in his students, including me,” Ray said. “He reinforced that effective leadership doesn’t have to be loud, forceful, or ego-driven. At the Joy of Music School, I want to create an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and heard. Sometimes, good leadership starts with simply listening.”
Ray has a clear vision for the future of the school, with a strong focus on growth and impact. His goal is to broaden the organization’s reach and elevate its programs, making high-quality, free music education available to even more students.
“I want to expand our reach and enhance our programming to serve more students,” Ray said. “That includes strengthening partnerships with other nonprofit organizations, broadening our offerings, and continuing to provide accessible music education to those who need it most. Music changes lives, and I want the Joy of Music School to be a place where students discover their potential—both in music and in life.”
Ray invites anyone interested in supporting the school’s mission to consider volunteering. “We always have a place for music teachers—UT students, retired professors, instrumentalists—who can commit 30-60 minutes of instruction time per week,” he said.
For those interested in volunteering, getting involved, or collaborating, reach out to Michael Ray at [email protected]. For more information about the Joy of Music School, visit www.joyofmusicschool.org.