News

Welcome Chris Sweatt as Director of Arts Education

By Ann Brown, Associate Director of Grants –

Chris Sweatt

Chris Sweatt has joined the Tennessee Arts Commission as Director of Arts Education. Chris comes to us from Jackson Preparatory School in Jackson, Mississippi, where he worked as Director of Choral Music. At Jackson Prep, Chris was responsible for producing a variety of large-scale performances and events, directing all choral ensembles, and teaching all vocal music classes for students in grades 6-12.

“We are thrilled to welcome Chris as Director of Arts Education to the Commission’s staff. For a long time now, arts learning has been a priority of this agency. Our focus is on supporting arts and cultural organizations, schools, and teaching artists as key providers in preparing students for success in school, career, and life. Chris’ background in music education, program administration, and grants management will serve the Commission and learners of all ages in Tennessee,” said Anne B. Pope, Executive Director.

In addition to his work at Jackson Prep, Chris has worked as a curriculum developer for MusicBreeds; managed a network of 200+ grant-based school music programs for Music and the Brain; and implemented teacher development workshops, group music classes, and other programs with organizations like the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music, NYC Department of Education, and Sing for Hope “Pianos” Project. Chris is also an active freelance music director, accompanist, and pianist.

Chris stated, “As an arts educator and administrator, I have highly valued the opportunity to create and facilitate transformative arts education experiences for students and teachers all over the country.  In this new role, I am eager to support and get to know the many constituents of Tennessee’s rich arts education landscape while also discovering opportunities for innovation in arts teaching, learning, and accessibility.”

Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Birmingham-Southern College, a Master of Arts in Music Education from New York University, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Music Directing from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Chris’ background and experience will serve him well while overseeing Arts Education grants, programs, and initiatives at the agency. More information about Chris, including his contact information, is available here. Please join us in welcoming Chris Sweatt!