Shawn Turner is an alumnus of the UT College of Music, having completed a degree in Studio Music and Jazz.  He has experience teaching in middle and high school levels and is the lead male vocalist in Pinky Ring and Aftah Party, local professional entertainment bands performing classic and modern R&B, Funk and Soul musics.  He is also Artist in Residence at the Old City Performing Arts Center. Professor Turner has over twenty years of experience in church music ministry and currently serves as the Choir Director at Sevier Heights Baptist Church. He is excited to be joining the Choral Area of the College of Music in Fall 2023 as Director of Gospel Choir.