Amy Hardison Tully graduated with a Doctor of Musical Arts in flute performance in 2007. Tully is the Teresa Ann Carter King Dean of the College of Fine Arts at Texas Christian University. We recently caught up with Amy to discuss her time at the School of Music and current career.
Why did you choose the School of Music?
I chose USC because of its academic reputation. When I decided to return to graduate school to work on my doctorate, I was teaching flute and music history part-time at Coastal Carolina University. USC was the perfect match from the location and the opportunity to study with superb faculty.
What person, course or experience was most influential for you while at the School of Music?
Flute professor Dr. Connie Lane was the most influential professor to me while I was at USC. She was so well-known as a master flute teacher and had many successful alumni all over the country. Dr. Lane pushed me to learn a lot of repertoire and to perform as much as I could. I was her last flute student and that is very profound to me. I deeply respected the entire music history faculty, including flute professor Dr. Donna Shin (who followed Dr. Lane and taught at USC for one year), oboe professor and chamber music coach Dr. Rebecca Nagel and director of choral activities Dr. Larry Wyatt. I had incredible music experiences with all of them and learned not only how to be a better performer, but a better teacher.
How has your education at the School of Music helped you in your life and career?
A year after graduation I accepted a full-time tenure track position at Coastal Carolina University teaching flute, music history and chamber music. I am confident that my education at USC enabled me to cultivate significant lifelong teaching, performing and research skills while being afforded numerous professional networking opportunities. When I made the decision to enter into arts administration, Dean Tayloe Harding was not only supportive, but was always available for timely and relevant advice.
What is one of your favorite memories, classes, professors or activities while attending the School of Music?
One of my favorite memories at USC was performing "The Martyrdom of Polycarp" by J.A.C. Redford with the USC Concert Choir on tours in Italy and Bulgaria. It is always exciting to perform new music, but to be able to perform in Europe with other students and faculty was a transformational experience.
What advice would you give current students or recent graduates pursuing a music performance or music education career?
Learn from every musical experience, be entrepreneurial, trust your creative instincts and don't give up. A strong performing arts education combined with a strong liberal arts education equals endless possibilities for creative contributions.
What is one of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating?
I am honored to have received a few teaching awards and obtained a few performing accomplishments throughout my career. Currently, I am honored to hold the position of Dean of the College of Fine Arts at Texas Christian University. This is a meaningful opportunity for me to advocate for and lend support to the next generation of creative leaders.