Sul Ross State University hired Dr. Milton Crotts, a native of North Carolina, as a new associate professor of music and the director of bands. He begins work on the Alpine campus next fall.

Crotts holds both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Music Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a doctorate in Musical Arts in instrumental conducting from the University of South Carolina at Columbia. He has taught and led ensembles at the University of Guam, Davidson College, Warren Wilson College and UNC Asheville.

“I look forward to working and living in one of the loveliest regions in our country, developing a strong band program at SRSU, and playing a part in shaping students’ futures in and out of class,” said Crotts.

Among the many ensembles he has conducted are concert bands, game day bands, wind ensembles, jazz ensembles and orchestras. Crotts’ teaching experience includes courses in Music Theory, Fundamentals of Music, Introduction to Music, Survey of the Arts, Applied Instrumental Music, Band Methods (woodwinds, brass, percussion), and Fundamentals of Music for Future Educators and Non-Music Majors.

Crotts’ unique musical vision is informed not only by his classical training, but by his roots in the traditional music of southern Appalachia. Building instrumental ensembles has been his greatest satisfaction as a musician, teacher and leader. His sense of adventure reveals creative programming and a willingness to explore concert venues that allow more audiences to experience the joy of music. He brings to SRSU a wealth of experience in designing engaging programs that challenge musicians and delight audiences.

For more information, email finearts@sulross.edu.

Photo: Dr. Milton Crotts. Kathy Kmonicek photo