Jessop to lead music dept.
Craig D. Jessop has been appointed the new head of the music department.
Jessop most recently served as the director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for nine years and spent four years as associate director. After retiring from that position, Jessop said he had been wanting to go into music education at the university level. He was approached by the acting department head and was excited at the prospect.
“It was a match made in heaven,” Jessop said.
After meeting with students in the department, Jessop said he was impressed with them and the overall program.
“It’s a wonderful department with a great tradition. I plan on continuing the legacy,” Jessop said.
After announcing Jessop’s appointment, Dean Edward Glatfelter of the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, said he is excited for the new addition.
“Professor Jessop brings with him a wonderful quality, not only from the choral aspect, but in furthering the continued growth and development of the entire department. An outstanding artist and director will be leading an excellent music department,” Glatfelter said.
Music has always been my greatest interest, Jessop said. He has been involved with music his whole life and said he has had many memorable experiences. These include his time in the U. S. Air Force, where as director of Singing Sergeants performing for presidents, leaders and ambassadors of nations across the world, and “the extraordinary privilege of directing the (Mormon Tabernacle) Choir.”
“I have been blessed with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities multiple times,” Jessop said.
Jessop graduated with his bachelor’s in music from USU in 1973 and said his wife and his four children have also all graduated from USU. Jessop is also a True Aggie, he said. Having grown up in Cache Valley and spending his college years at USU, Jessop said he is very excited to return.
“We’re excited to be back home,” Jessop said.
Jessop will return to USU and begin as head of the music department on May 5.
-alison.baugh@aggiemail.usu.edu