Department of Music Announces New Chair

The College of Arts + Architecture is pleased to announce that Dr. Joseph Skillen will become the next chair of the Department of Music, effective July 1. Skillen comes to UNC Charlotte after 22 years at Louisiana State University, where he has served in numerous capacities, most recently as the Galante Endowed Professor and associate dean for graduate studies in music and theatre in the College of Music and Dramatic Arts.

Skillen is a respected performer, teacher, and scholar. His scholarly work includes more than 40 publications, three book chapters, 12 professional recordings, musical transcriptions, and multiple solo performances on four continents. Current research interests include brass pedagogy, contemplative teaching practices, curricular design, commissioning and premiering new works for tuba, community engagement, and arts entrepreneurship.

Prior to his engagement at LSU, Skillen was a principal tubist in American orchestras, and he has performed with touring ensembles across the United States, Europe, and Asia. As a Fulbright Scholar, Skillen studied in Stockholm, Sweden, at the Royal Music Academy and performed as a substitute tubist with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. His performances have been broadcast in the U.S. on National Public Radio and on Sweden’s National Radio. He holds degrees in music education and music performance from Tennessee Technological University, Pennsylvania State University, and Michigan State University.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Joseph Skillen as next chair of the Department of Music,” said Brook Muller, dean of the College of Arts + Architecture. “He is a highly respected musician with a loyal student following. His leadership is characterized as inclusive and entrepreneurial as he advances the intellectual culture in which he operates. Dr. Skillen seeks to engage the department in a mission-driven process of program development, recognizing that UNC Charlotte music has a distinct identity that can be celebrated and furthered. He also brings significant experience developing interdisciplinary programs and opportunities, the ‘Music to Medicine’ initiative providing one example among many.”