Natural State News

University of Arkansas associate professor Jeffrey Allen Murdock was picked from 10 finalists and named the winner of this year's Grammy Music Educator Award, the top honor for teachers who've made an impact in music education and are committed to keeping it in the curriculum. 

Murdock, who teaches music education, also received a matching grant for the university's music department and a $10,000 honorarium. 

"Every learner, every day should have access to high-quality music education — no matter who they are, no matter where they're from, no matter what age they are," Murdock said in a release on the university's website. "My passion is for leveling the field of music education and I'm passionate about increasing diversity, equity and inclusion in the field."

Murdock stood out among thousands of initial nominees for the award.

"What makes Dr. Murdock incredible is that, yes, he's an incredible professor, he's an incredible musician, but he goes the extra step in educating us in just life things," current student Nicole Dominguez was reported as saying on CBS Good Morning. "And educating us on how to be good citizens, good peers, good friends, good mentors, and that never stops for him. That's a 24/7 thing."

In addition to teaching music education, Murdock also is the associate director of choral activities and conducts both the Inspirational Chorale and Razorback Chorus. His work as a conductor, clinician and adjudicator is known across the world. 

He didn't get to walk the red carpet at the Grammy Awards this year because of social distancing guidelines put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, but will be able to participate next year. He'll also get to serve as a worldwide ambassador for music education and take part in a few Grammy camps and other school events.