JACKSON, Tenn. –Johnny Kimbrough has accepted the position of Director of The Ned McWherter West Tennessee Cultural Arts Center.
Kimbrough, formerly director of musical programs at Jackson Christian School, brings over 35 years of performing arts experience to The Ned.
“Johnny’s experience with the performing arts will be an asset to the many programs at The Ned,” said Mayor Scott Conger. “The building blocks for The Ned are very strong, and we look forward to the future with our vision of enhancing the arts in our community.
Kimbrough started his teaching career in Griffin, GA, as a high school chorus teacher and assistant band director. He later moved to Cookeville, TN in 1986 where he presented concerts and musicals for elementary, middle and high schools. After retiring in 2010, Kimbrough was asked to start a musical program at Jackson Christian School.
Kimbrough is a proud graduate of Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN, where he received a Bachelor of Science in vocal and instrumental education.
Kimbrough says that he has plans for more theatrical performances, scheduled concerts, speakers, and presentations. He says that he wants to see something always going on downtown.
“I have been tasked by the mayor to create more utilization of The Ned as well as more diversity,” said Kimbrough. “I look forward to assisting in the great work of our local artist and want to continue to provide a place for art to thrive.”
Kimbrough has mentored a number of student teachers over the years who are now successfully teaching in schools around Tennessee. He has taken groups of students, both current and former, to sing all around the world including Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Scotland, England, France, Germany, Austria and Italy, where his chorus was asked to represent the United States in the international Lake Garda choral festival.
Kimbrough’s civic commitments
- Active member of the West Tennessee Vocal Music Educators Association (WTVMEA)
- Tennessee Music Educators Association (TEMA)
- American Choral Directors Association (ACDA)
- National Association for Music Education (NAfME)
- Previous Chairperson for All-State Men’s Choir for 7 Years
Kimbrough beings his position at The Ned on July 1.
