MEET THE STUDENT ARTIST
GRADUATE STUDENT, SCHOOL OF MUSIC JEROME GILLESPIE
What is the focus of your work? The focus of my work here at this institution is to become a well- rounded musician, not only as a player, but as a composer and educator. While it requires a lot of hard work, I have the pleasure of serving as a TA for two Jazz History sections and co-direct of the Latin Jazz Ensemble, all while participating in a couple of performing ensembles, studying composition, and music and gender. Tell us about the broad impact it has/could have. Jazz is not a popular genre like it used to be, and it probably will never be truly “popular”. However, when I’m either teaching or performing, I strive to preserve the culture of this art form while making this music more accessible and relevant to the millennial and post-millennial generation. Many students who take jazz history have no prior knowledge of jazz, and it fills me with so much joy when I hear my students tell me that they enjoy listening to jazz; not only that, but they are making their own discoveries as well. This is not so much because it’s a compliment to the work that I’m doing, but because it ensures that America’s greatest and original contribution will not likely fade away. What excites you about the environment in CLAS? There are a lot of things that I love about the environment. The Voxman building is very beautiful, especially when the sun is out. In addition to the building, everyone I met at the School of Music has been very nice and welcoming. I’m very fortunate to learn from, and work with an amazing faculty (Dr. Damani Phillips, Dr. William Menefield, Prof. Curtis Taylor, and Prof. James Dreier) along with my peers and colleagues. What are your hobbies and pursuits outside of work? When I’m not at the drums (which is my main instrument) I’m mostly like watching Netflix or HBO Max. Currently my favorite show series are Boondocks, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and The Crown, and my favorite movies are Justice League (Zach Snyder cut), Batman Trilogy, and any Dave Chapelle comedy special.
What are your favorite things to do in Iowa City? One thing about me is that I’m a huge history nerd. With that being said, when the weather is desirable, I like to walk around the Old Capitol building anytime I have some minutes to spare between classes and practice sessions. I find it amazing how the school is built around a building that embodies the history of this state. Aside from that I find great joy in hanging out with my friends.
CLAS Research Resource I 25
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