Why did you choose the USC School of Music?
I was looking for a quality graduate program that I could complete on a part-time basis while continuing my career as a music educator.
What person, course or experience was most influential for you while at the School of Music?
Dick Goodwin was my greatest influence because he was my primary composition professor for both degrees. His expertise in a range of musical styles was the perfect fit for my background as well as my interests in developing a catalog of works for both traditional and contemporary ensembles of various skill levels.
How has your education at the USC School of Music helped you in your life and career?
My career was not a straight path and included a number of transitions from being a K-12 music teacher, collegiate faculty member, collegiate administrator, and now president of our state’s flagship public residential high school. In addition to my coursework, faculty and administrators in the USC School of Music were resources for me in every position. All of my experiences as a student were critical for my success as a professional.
What is one of your favorite memories, classes, professors or activities while attending the School of Music?
Some of my fondest memories were the deep and intense discussions in Dr. Louise Peake’s music history classes. She was a real force in the School of Music, and I learned more about music and composers from her than I could have ever imagined. Although I knew she had a reputation for being difficult, I’m so glad I took several classes with her.
What advice would you give current students or recent graduates pursuing a music performance or music education career?
I would certainly advise students to follow their passion, choose a good mentor, and explore every opportunity for professional growth that is presented to them. Careers in the arts are constantly changing and, especially with the onset of artificial intelligence, we must stay abreast of how shifts in technology, pedagogy, and other forces are affecting the future of applied music and music education.
What is one of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating from the School of Music in which your education played a role?
I’m certainly proud of the achievements of my students over the years, as so many of them became music educators with a few taking over the programs in which I taught them. I’d say I’m most proud of the work I’ve done since becoming president of the Governor’s School for the Arts & Humanities because of our work throughout all 46 counties in the state of South Carolina. I firmly believe that we are a model for public education.
What is currently playing on repeat on your Spotify/Pandora/Apple Music, etc.?
My influences are varied, so my playlist is equally diverse. I keep up with as many living composers as possible on Spotify, along with Smokey’s Soul Town and Caliente Latin Hits on SiriusXM.
Please share any recent accomplishments, major life events, awards, etc.
I’ve been fortunate to continue my career as a composer while serving as an administrator for the last 20 years. A few years ago, I was commissioned to compose a work for the Music Department at Argo Community High School (Chicago, IL) in honor of alumna Mamie Till-Mobley, mother of Emmett Till. The premiere was a historic event and a well-deserved tribute to an amazing woman, mother, educator, and icon of the American Civil Rights Movement.
Can you share any upcoming performances of your music?
Glen Inanga and Rebeca Omordia will perform one of my compositions on Saturday, November 7, at 7 p.m. for the Dundorff 2 Piano Fusion Recital in Miami, Florida.
Learn more about Cedric and his music at cedricadderley.com
And you can follow him on Instagram: @cedricadderley