As many Schools of Music have reduced or dropped teaching the organ, competition for spots in Baylor’s organ program remains stiff — in large part due to the presence of Dr. Joyce Jones, the Joyce Oliver Bowden Professor of Music and Organist in Residence and this year’s recipient of the Cornelia Marschall Smith Professor of the Year.
Jones, a member of Baylor’s faculty for over 40 years, exemplifies the award’s purpose of honoring professors for their teaching, research and service. An organ virtuoso who was honored just last month by the 20,000-member American Guild of Organists, Jones has been Baylor’s leading professor of organ for 40 years as well as one of the most prolific performers in the School of Music’s history, sharing her skills not only on campus but also in such venues as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Crystal Cathedral.
And how’s this for service? Rather than accept the $20,000 award that comes with the Cornelia Marschall Smith honor, Jones has donated the money back to Baylor; half will add to the endowment for an organ concert, and the other half to organ scholarships.
Sic ’em, Dr. Jones!
