MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Dr. Jim Pierce, assistant professor of music therapy with the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music at the University of Memphis, has been appointed by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee to the newly formed Professional Music Therapy Advisory Committee, the first of its kind in the state.
Pierce, who joined the UofM faculty in 2022, was instrumental in the passage of House Bill 0521/Senate Bill 0898, which officially recognized board-certified music therapists (MT-BC) as credentialed professionals in Tennessee. The advisory committee that Pierce has joined is tasked with creating and promoting the licensure rules for future music therapists in the state, legitimizing and expanding access to music therapy services across the state. His term is effective through June 30, 2026.
“This appointment is more than just a professional achievement — it’s a testament to the power of advocacy and the role of music therapy in transforming lives,” Pierce said. “I’m honored to represent our profession and bring the voices of music therapists across Tennessee to the table.”
Pierce has spent nearly two decades providing innovative, evidence-based care as a board-certified music therapist. His clinical experience spans a wide range of settings, including forensic mental health facilities, dementia care units, juvenile detention centers and developmental disability programs. His work has impacted youth and adults coping with complex diagnoses including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Alzheimer’s disease and substance use disorders.
In a letter to Pierce, Governor Lee wrote that it was Pierce’s “individual characteristics and professional qualifications” that separated him from a number of nominees.
“I consider it very important to ensure that Tennessee’s boards and commissions are filled with the most dedicated and qualified citizens,” the letter read. “I believe that (Pierce’s) participation is certain to leave a positive impact on this board and in the work it does.”
A native of Morgantown, W. Va., Pierce earned dual bachelor’s degrees in music and psychology from West Virginia University, followed by a Master of Music in Music Therapy from Florida State University. He later earned his doctorate in Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Since relocating to Memphis, Pierce has emerged as a leading advocate in Tennessee’s music therapy community. He currently serves as president of the Tennessee Association for Music Therapy (TAMT) and is a member of the Tennessee Music Therapy Task Force and the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA).
“I’m honored to represent our profession and bring the voices of music therapists… to the table.”
– Jim Pierce
In addition to his statewide impact, Pierce is also expanding opportunities for students at UofM. Beginning Fall 2025, he will launch the Student Music Therapy Organization (SMTO) is a new university-recognized student organization aimed at fostering professional development, service and peer connection for students pursuing careers in music therapy.
