"We are pleased with this marvelous addition to the very strong music program ," Edward Glatfelter, dean of USU's College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, said in a statement. "Professor Jessop brings with him a wonderful quality, not only from the choral aspect, but in furthering the continued growth and development of the entire department. "
Jessop directed the Mormon Tabernacle Choir from 1999 until his abrupt resignation on March 4. At that time, he said he planned to remain active in the musical world "including teaching - the career that . . . originally began my musical journey."
The 58-year-old, who has granted no media interviews since resigning from the choir, said in a statement today that he is "thrilled" with his new job, which he will start May 5.
""Utah State is my home," his statement said. "The people of Utah are my people. My wife and I met, dated and courted at Utah State University. There is no place I would rather spend my time than here in my home state and home university."
He said the vibrancy of USU's music department drew him back to Logan. "There has been exciting, dynamic and excellent leadership in the department over the years," according to the statement. "I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Max Dalby, who was the department head when I was a student. He was a great influence in my life. There are many others from USU, including Dr. William Ramsey, who is my friend and mentor to this day."
He also noted the strength of programs in the department including piano, guitar, music therapy, orchestral, choral, instrumental and music education. "I will be able to work from a great legacy that exists."
Speculation has been rampant about where Jessop would end up since his surprise resignation from the choir. No one has said for certain why he left.
Under his direction, the choir won numerous awards, including the Special Recognition Award from the International Radio and Television Society Foundation and the National Medal of Arts from President Bush. For the past few years, he has been director of the National High School Choir Festival held each year at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Before his appointment with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Jessop served as lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force music programs, where he directed the Singing Sergeants in Washington, D.C., in 1980-1987. He was a member of the Robert Shaw Festival Singers, participating with his mentor in concerts and recordings throughout the U.S. and Europe.
Mack Wilberg, who has earned international acclaim as a composer and arranger of religious music, was named the new director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir on Saturday.
