(Bradenton, Fla., August 22, 2024) — Jesse Clark, Ph.D., a Grammy Award-winning music producer is the new assistant professor in the music production program at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF). Dr. Clark began in June by co-directing a group of high school and college students in an SCF summer music production workshop and final concert performances in electronica, singer-songwriting and electro-fusion jazz music. He started officially on August 8 at the college, where he teaches music production and other classes.

Dr. Clark has been an accomplished audio engineer, composer and performer for more than three decades. From creating soundtracks for films and commercials to collaborating with Wu Tang Clan, Public Enemy, Kenny G, Dickey Betts, Linkin Park and other renowned recording artists in studio and live productions, his contributions span various musical projects and genres. Dr. Clark won a Grammy Award for his audio work on a Brave Combo punk polka album. He is currently composing an original opera and a sitar concerto.

At SCF, Dr. Clark embraces the performing arts department’s culture, focused on nurturing, supportive faculty and motivated, talented students.

“From the moment I first interacted with the professors, I was made to feel incredibly welcome, which speaks volumes about the collegial and inclusive atmosphere at SCF,” said Dr. Clark. “The students demonstrate drive, ambition and a fervent desire to learn, which is truly inspiring,” he said.

Dr. Clark previously taught at Albright College in Reading, Pennsylvania. During his tenure, the college established a music program. He designed and taught the music industry studies major’s first two of three pillars—music artistry, music technology and music business. He continued his education, earning a Ph.D. at Temple University in Philadelphia.

At SCF, Dr. Clark plans to channel his extensive music industry experience and real-world knowledge into his teaching practice. He wants to help his students explore, learn and improve musically.

“My goal is to help them strengthen what they already know while introducing them to new concepts and experiences that will further nurture and develop their musical talents,” Dr. Clark said. “Ultimately, I want to prepare them not only for their time at SCF but also for the world beyond, ensuring they are well-equipped for their future musical endeavors.”

For more information about the SCF music production program, visit SCF.edu/programs/music-production.

Photo caption: SCF music production assistant professor Dr. Jesse Clark teaches students this fall at SCF Bradenton.

Photo credit State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota

Photo caption: SCF music production program assistant professor Dr. Jesse Clark leads a class this fall at SCF Bradenton.

Photo credit State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota

Photo caption: SCF music production program assistant professor Dr. Jesse Clark speaks at this summer’s music production workshop final concert at SCF Bradenton.

Photo credit State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota