J. Frank White Academy (JFWA) has expanded its thriving music program with the formations of the JFWA Balladeers, a new vocal ensemble directed by Dr. Kristy Bay, Lincoln Memorial University's (LMU) Exective Director of Administration.
The idea for the Balladeers stemmed from the continued growth of JFWA’s music program, led by Dr. Kiplyn Collins. Inspired by the momentum, Bay approached JFWA principal Dr. Kristina Hudson and guidance counselor Jamie Baker to discuss adding a choral component to the academy’s fine arts offerings. The enthusiastic response led to the creation of the Balladeers, which now includes six students from fifth to 12th grade.
The group rehearses Tuesdays during the school’s flex block in the LMU chapel and debuted by performing the national anthem at JFWA’s homecoming at Tex Turner Arena. For several students, it was their first time performing in front of an audience.
Bay, a lifelong musician and educator, volunteered to lead the group. She earned a Bachelor of Music in commercial music with a vocal performance emphasis and a Bachelor of Arts in French from Belmont University’s School of Music in Nashville, Tennessee. Throughout her undergraduate years, she performed across the United States and Europe, appearing in 10 countries and studying abroad in France, where she explored French pop music. Though her graduate degrees focus on other fields, she remains an active musician in the local community, conducting choirs, and composing and arranging music.
“We are excited to offer this new activity for students and grateful to Dr. Bay for volunteering her time,” said Dr. Hudson. “Her passion for music and education is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing the Balladeers grow.”
JFWA is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year. For more information, contact Tonya Perry at 423-869-6346 or tonya.perry@lmunet.edu
The J. Frank White Academy is a private, college preparatory day school serving grades Pre-K through 12 on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University. JFWA is fully accredited, and STEM certified by Cognia, which is the first internationally recognized mark of quality for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) schools and programs, signaling the growing emphasis on STEM education by educators, politicians, and business leaders around the world. For more information contact JFWA at 423.869.6234 or visit our website at JFWA.LMUnet.edu.
