Jessica Rice ’17 Named Associate Artistic Director of Central Florida Sounds of Freedom

Jessica Rice ’17 has been named Associate Artistic Director of Central Florida Sounds of Freedom Band & Guard, joining the artistic leadership team of the Orlando-based performing arts organization for its 2026–27 season.

Jessica earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Stetson University in 2017. Following graduation, she spent five years as a middle school band director in Seminole County, developing experience in music education, conducting, and ensemble leadership. She is currently continuing her education at Stetson, pursuing a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources.

Her new appointment also represents a progression within Central Florida Sounds of Freedom. Jessica has performed as a member of the organization for the past several years and now moves into an artistic leadership role alongside Artistic Director Dr. Lindsey Williams.

She credits several mentors with influencing her development as a musician, conductor, and leader, including Dr. Douglas Phillips, Joshua Langston, and Dr. Lindsey Williams. Her combination of music education and organizational leadership experience will support her work with the ensemble as it continues its performances and community engagement throughout Central Florida.

We congratulate Jessica on this new leadership appointment and wish her continued success as she begins this next chapter of her musical and professional journey.