U of MN and First Avenue veterans sign on with Twin Cities-based music college
Two outstanding professionals from the higher education and music business sectors, Diane Kruger and Steve McClellan, have joined the staff of McNally Smith College of Music—further bolstering the school’s roster of
internationally-accomplished musicians, academics, and music industry veterans.
Diane Kruger, McNally Smith’s new Executive Vice President, will guide
the next phase of growth at the innovative popular music college. This includes
an aggressive expansion of degree and diploma programs, and continued development
of McNally Smith campus resources. Previously, Kruger was the CFO at the University
of Minnesota’s Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs. She also held senior
administrative positions at the University’s Medical School and Carlson
School of Management.
“McNally Smith offers students one of the most unique, authentic music
education programs in the world,” says Kruger. “My goal is to further
expand the courses we can offer today’s student as we continue to build
the college internationally.”
Steve McClellan, who will serve as an adjunct instructor in the Music Business
Department, became a leading figure in the concert promotion industry as the
general manager of the First Avenue nightclub in Minneapolis, which grew to
international prominence under his watch. Drawing on over 33 years in the music
industry, he will teach booking and touring as well as other music business-related
classes.
“My goal is to add synergy between the student world and the real world
of the music industry,” says McClellan. “I’m excited to share
my insight with students learning the intricacies of the business.”
The new additions to McNally Smith’s staff support the college’s
strategic expansion of degree offerings and campus resources. This comes on
the heels of the college’s approval by both the Minnesota Higher Education
Services Office and the National Association of Schools of Music to offer a
Bachelor in Music Performance. The school is currently celebrating its 20th
anniversary.
About McNally Smith College of
Music
McNally Smith College of Music offers degrees in Music Performance, Recording
Technology, and Music Business. Founded in 1985, the accredited, Saint Paul,
Minnesota-based college features uniquely personalized instruction and a Northern
European annex, providing its 450+ students with an authentic American popular
music education. www.mcnallysmith.edu
