Dr. John Wykoff, professor of music theory and composition, has been named the recipient of Lee University’s 2024 Excellence in Scholarship Award. 

“It is a wonderful feeling to have my work as a composer recognized in this way,” said Wykoff. “Composing music has always been at the heart of who I am and what I do. I am grateful to my outstanding colleagues at Lee – the real scholars – who sharpen me all the time in many ways.” 

Wykoff joined Lee University’s School of Music faculty in 2011. In addition to teaching, he serves as the director of graduate studies in music. He is an award-winning American composer of contemporary classical music and has received numerous commissions for diverse occasions, including the 2017 presidential inauguration in Washington D.C. His works are performed internationally by top choirs and renowned new music ensembles. 

In 2023, Wykoff served as composer in residence for Perform International’s Normandy Festival, which included the world premiere of “Out of This Darkness: A Normandy Cantata,” a major new choral/orchestral work Wykoff created with renowned lyricist Charles Anthony Silvestri. His choral music is published by Walton Music, and his book, “The Melodic Voice: Conversations with Alice Parker,” written with Alice Parker and Cameron Labarr, is available from GIA Publications. 

The Excellence in Scholarship Award is one of three faculty excellence awards recognizing teaching, scholarship, and advising. They are considered the highest honors bestowed on Lee faculty each year. The winner of this award is chosen by the Faculty Scholarship and Research Committee. 

Wykoff was recognized for this award during the university’s spring commencement ceremonies.