Bethel University Renaissance Announces Launch of Country Band

McKENZIE (August 7) — Bethel University's Renaissance program has announced its newest addition to a growing family of performance groups, launching the Renaissance Country Band this fall.

"Country music has deep roots in Tennessee, and we're thrilled to offer current and future students another outstanding opportunity to perform, tour, develop their craft, and prepare for careers in the music industry and beyond," the Bethel University Renaissance group said.

With its launch, Renaissance welcomes three musicians and leaders into part-time staff roles to help shape the future of the Renaissance Country Band.

Randle Currie is the director of the Renaissance Country Band. For over 25 years, Currie toured the world as Brad Paisley's steel guitarist, performing on 11 albums featuring 14 number one country hits. He has also recorded with John Michael Montgomery, Albert Lee and Raul Malo, while touring with Martina McBride and Bryan White.

"The Country Band has been a dream of ours for years," said Dr. C. Scott Shepherd, associate dean of the School of Visual and Performing Arts, "but we were determined to launch it the right way. When Randle agreed to join us, we knew the time had come. We simply couldn't imagine a better person to launch this exciting new group."

Bethel Renaissance alum Byron Chaney serves as the band's rhythm section director.

One of the early standout musicians to emerge from the Renaissance program, Chaney's professional credits include contributing to the Billboard Top 10 R&B hit "Fell in Love" featuring Anthony Hamilton, while also serving as a music director for nationally recognized artists and ministries.

Throughout his career, Byron has collaborated with legendary artists including Aretha Franklin, Frankie Beverly & Maze, The Isley Brothers, Fantasia, Anthony Hamilton, Tank, Ginuwine, Bobby Jones, Keke Wyatt, Summer Walker, London On Da Track, King George and many others.

Today, Byron serves as director of digital audio production at Jackson Central-Merry High School.

"When we began searching for someone to lead our rhythm section, one name continually rose to the top: Byron Chaney," Shepherd said. "As one of Renaissance's own, he brings the professional experience, heart for students, and leadership we were looking for. We're thrilled to welcome our first choice home."

Bethel Renaissance alumna Sophia Wright is the band's bluegrass coordinator.

Through her work with Bethel University, Ozark Mountain Music and the International Bluegrass Music Association, Wright has coordinated festivals, performances, artist relations, educational camps and live events while earning a reputation for exceptional planning, organization and relationship-building across the bluegrass community. '

Wright will continue serving as Bethel University's director of student engagement and student organizations while assuming this new part-time role as Renaissance bluegrass coordinator.

"There are few young leaders I respect more than Sophia Wright," Shepherd said. "I've wanted Sophia to be part of our Renaissance leadership team for years. She loves students, understands this program, and is exactly the right person to help lead the next chapter of Renaissance Bluegrass."

From choirs and worship teams to theatre, production, instrumental ensembles, bluegrass and now the Country Band, Renaissance continues to expand the ways students can grow as artists while learning from professionals who have built remarkable careers in the performing arts.