OC’s new visiting music professor to teach music appreciation and direct the steel band

Alumna Kandyce Everett joined the OC Music Program this spring.

February 23, 2021

This semester, Oklahoma Christian University alumna Kandyce Everett agreed to come home to OC, this time as a professor rather than a student. With her master’s degree in Music Therapy, Everett teaches Music Appreciation online, directs OC’s steel band and accompanies the 2021 Cabaret musical. 

Since graduating in 2016, Everett has been eager to come back to OC.

“About three years ago, I asked Dr. Heath Jones and Dr. John Fletcher if there was any way I could be a part of the steel band, even as a teaching assistant, and now I’m here as the director,” Everett said. “For me, it has always been the faculty and staff that created such a desire in my heart to come back to OC as an employee. The staff here have been like family to me both as a student and an alumna.”

When asked about what she most enjoys teaching, Everett said her love for directing the steel drums. She grew up playing the instrument and continues today. Now, an instrument that began as one of her favorite hobbies is even more special as she has the opportunity to teach it to talented OC students. 

Professor of Music Heath Jones also expressed his excitement about bringing Everett’s experience to OC.

“Kandyce has a joyful spirit, and she brightens everyone's day,” Jones said. “She can sing and play piano, saxophone and the steel drums very well. It is great to have her as a visiting instructor.”

Alongside Jones, OC’s Division Chair of Fine and Performing Arts, John Fletcher, also described his appreciation for Everett’s talents.

“Ms. Everett was one of our most-talented undergraduate music students,” Fletcher said. “She is a fine performer in vocal and instrumental music and an excellent pianist. During graduate school, she gained valuable experience with steel drum ensembles. We are thrilled to have her work with our steel drum group and to fill other important teaching and recruiting roles in the Music Program.”

Be sure to check out Everett’s work in the Music Program’s “Cabaret: Reach Out To Broadway” March 4-6 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at the OC box office.