University names award-winning composer McDonald to music faculty

Carson-Newman University announced that award-winning composer Mary McDonald will serve as composer-in-residence in the University’s Music Department.

The 1978 Carson-Newman alumna is well-known in the field of sacred music. With a career spanning over 40 years, her songs appear in the catalogs of every major publisher of church music. More than 1,700 compositions through anthems, seasonal musicals and keyboard collections testify to her significant contribution to church music.

“I have seen the joy and passion for the Lord that Mary brings to everything she does,” said Dr. Chris Headley, chair of the University’s Music Department. “Her willingness to accept this appointment is a gift to the Carson-Newman community, particularly our students, who will have the unique experience of being able to interact directly with the composer of the music they perform.”

McDonald’s career was marked by a music milestone when she was named the first woman president of the Southern Baptist Church Music Conference. She also served 36 years as accompanist for the Tennessee Men’s Chorale, touring internationally to Brazil, England, Wales and Italy.

She served for more than 20 years as senior music editor for The Lorenz Corporation in Dayton, Ohio. McDonald has performed multiple times on the grand stage of Carnegie Hall. She returns in December for her fourth visit with the world premiere of her composition, “GLORIA.”

McDonald and her husband, Brian, reside in Dandridge.