Jesse is the founder of the Centennial College’s Music Industry Arts and Performance (MIAP) program. He worked with key industry leaders and a dynamic team at Centennial to build MIAP, a unique, practical and experiential program that launched in 2013. Aside from one year of parental leave, Jesse has been honoured to continuously serve as an instructor and coordinator of the music program since its inception. The best part of his job is working with students, nurturing their growth and creativity throughout their three years, and watching them thrive in the music industry after graduation.
Jesse brings a wealth of academic and professional music experience to the program. Jesse’s abilities as a multi-instrumentalist have led to a range of recording and performing opportunities spanning decades, including international tours with the JUNO award-wining Toronto Mass Choir. He holds a PhD in Ethnomusicology from York University. His dissertation entitled “O Lead Us On, Thou Gentle Shepherd”: A Historical and Musical Survey of Black Canadian Gospel Music in Ontario” is a ground-breaking work that traces the development of gospel music in Ontario from the mid-19th century to the present. Jesse balances his work at Centennial with serving as a lecturer and presenter at various universities and conferences, as well as performing and recording as a solo artist and with a variety of groups.
Courses:
- Creativity in Context
- The Art of Performance
- Collaborative Performance
- Music Career Development
- Field Placement