IU Jacobs School of Music appoints jazz vocalist Ly Wilder to faculty
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 5, 2012
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- The Indiana University Jacobs School of Music is pleased to announce the appointment of jazz vocalist and vocal jazz ensemble director Ly Wilder as adjunct lecturer in jazz voice, completing a faculty lineup that will introduce vocal jazz as a major study area in the school.
"It's a wonderful step forward," said Distinguished Professor David N. Baker, chair of the Jazz Studies Department. "With Ly Wilder joining the Jacobs School faculty, we now have a team that will build a world-class vocal jazz program."
"I am thrilled that Ly will be joining us as we introduce jazz voice and the study of jazz and commercial music for vocal musicians, at both the undergraduate and graduate level," said Steve Zegree, Pam and Jack Burks Professor of Music, who directs the Vocal Jazz Ensemble and the Singing Hoosiers. "Ly is nationally recognized as a wonderful singer, arranger, conductor and clinician. She is also an amazing, caring and inspirational teacher."
Wilder has worked widely as a soloist with big bands and orchestras and as a studio vocalist. She is in demand as a vocal jazz adjudicator, and she has conducted All-State Vocal Jazz Ensembles in several states, including Colorado, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.
"I am excited and honored to join the faculty," Wilder said. "I look forward to helping students explore the depth of technique, range and style associated with performing a wide range of contemporary popular song."
A prolific arranger, Wilder's work has been performed by university and high school groups across the United States. Her arrangements can be heard on recordings by Western Michigan University's award-winning Gold Company, including "Who Can Ask for Anything More" and "30."
Her solo CD, "The Call," was released to critical acclaim in 2010.
Wilder has previously taught vocal jazz and choirs at Purdue University. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Studio Music and Jazz-Vocal from the University of Miami and a Master of Music in Jazz Studies-Vocal Emphasis from Western Michigan University.