The UT College of Music Celebrates its Launch
The University of Tennessee College of Music commemorated its new beginning on Thursday with a rousing celebration, culminating in a surprise onstage performance of “Rocky Top” by the UT Pride of the Southland Marching Band.
“The College of Music will be a beacon of the arts in our community and beyond—from the beautiful art that is produced in the college, to the graduates who will go on to perform, teach, and advocate for music here in Tennessee and all over the world,” said Chancellor Donde Plowman.
The night included a special reception for College of Music donors and friends before the crowd entered the Sandra G. Powell Recital Hall, including an outdoor performance by the UT Balinese Gamelan Ensemble. The night’s concert showcased the breadth of music-making that takes place in the College of Music, including a trumpet ensemble piece specifically written for the night, as well as percussion, piano, jazz, and chamber choir performances, and a performance of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” on violin.
But as thrilling as the performances themselves were, the event also highlighted a consistent theme of the College’s dedication to providing a superior student experience, and the University’s commitment to investing in the arts.
“There are places where this is not happening,” said Jeffrey Pappas, Natalie L. Haslam Founding Dean of the College of Music, in reference to UT’s increased investment in the arts. “The University of Tennessee is bucking higher education trends throughout our campus. This dedication is another example of that.”
“From my first visit to campus, the faculty and the staff have been very supportive and encouraging,” said College of Music student Christian Carroll. “They have helped me become the best possible version of myself.”
“Opportunities for professional development, exploration, and experimentation will continue to grow in this College of Music where our faculty are dedicated to designing the path ahead, not merely walking it,” said Associate Professor of Horn Katie Johnson-Webb. “These opportunities will only enhance the excellence in teaching quality that our program has always enjoyed.”
The event also marked the 10-year anniversary of the opening of the Natalie L. Haslam Music Center.