Delivering the Keynote: Introduction to Wade Dean, the 2025 University Graduation Orator
In a remarkable display of dedication, Wade Dean, a renowned composer, producer, and educator in contemporary music and music education, has made a significant impact on the Spelman College community.
Dean's career in music began in earnest during his elementary school days, when he picked up the saxophone due to a crush on a classmate. This early interest blossomed into a lifelong passion, leading him to study music performance and education at the University of South Carolina and the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.
Throughout his career, Dean has played with various Philadelphia bands, including performing at George Clinton's birthday celebration at the Apollo and a Martin Luther King celebration at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, alongside Tye Tribbett & G.A. (Greater Anointing). However, it was his commitment to the contemporary music ensemble at Spelman College that marked a significant moment in his career as a scholar and educator.
In December 2024, Dean was teaching courses in music theory and jazz history at Spelman College. It was during this time that the music department informed him they did not have the funds to continue paying him to direct the ensemble, "Noire." Rather than abandon the programme, Dean made a selfless decision to continue teaching unpaid. This move was a testament to his values, a way of honouring his mentors, and standing with the Spelman students.
Dean's decision to continue teaching unpaid was not made lightly. He had met with Professors Robert Fink and Ray Knapp regularly for guidance during his graduate studies and had chosen UCLA to study with Professor Fink, who is currently the acting dean of The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music.
Music has always been a significant part of Dean's life, serving as a means of understanding the world, a form of melody, harmony, and storytelling that helped him relate to others. This connection to music was fostered by his family, with his mother being a pianist who sang with the church choir, his father having a large record collection, and his uncle playing in Count Basie's band.
In a heartwarming turn of events, a student in the contemporary music ensemble thanked Dean for taking a chance on her, with the student about to begin her own graduate study at Georgia State University. Dean's impact on music education extends beyond Spelman College, influencing the lives of many students and contributing to music pedagogy through works in music technology, composition, and collaboration with educational institutions.
Despite the lack of verified sources detailing Dean's career and academic journey, his contributions to contemporary music and music education are undeniable. For a more comprehensive understanding of his accomplishments and impact, it may be necessary to consult specialized music education publications, his official biography, or institutional profiles directly associated with him.
In light of his dedication to contemporary music education, Wade Dean made a personal growth decision to continue teaching unpaid at Spelman College, demonstrating his commitment to the development and self-improvement of his students. His impact on music education and pedagogy extends beyond Spelman College, influencing the lives of many students and contributing to music technology, composition, and collaboration with educational institutions.
