Singer Ruben Studdard joining UTC faculty

Americon Idol winner will teach 2 classes next fall

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – The deal is done and singer Ruben Studdard will become a member of the UTC faculty.

The American Idol winner from Birmingham will teach two courses next fall.

He has increased his ties to the local university since they hired a close friend of his in administration.

Studdard sang with the marching band last year and then returned to work with the UTC Singing Mocs last week.

He presented a masterclass at a rehearsal, giving the singers performance tips.

“I think when Ruben came to do a masterclass, he proved to everyone that he is not only a great performer but an excellent teacher,” Stuart Benkert from the School of Music said.

“He immediately connected with the students in a relevant and meaningful manner. He improved their level of performance and increased their awareness of what it takes to be performer.”

Studdard will return for another masterclass on March 28th.

But this time, the public is invited.

(The masterclass event is from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Walker Theatre. Tickets are $10 for the public, and UTC students will be admitted free with a valid student ID. A $50 VIP ticket includes a general admission ticket and access to an after-class reception.)

Next fall, he will teach a class on the business side of music and another on the performance side.

All UTC students can sign up for the classes, not just music majors.