Jessie Riggins Named Assistant Artistic Director

Kansas City, MO, 6 August 2020 — Show-Me Pride Ensembles is delighted to announce Jessica “Jessie” Riggins (she/her) as the organization’s new Assistant Artistic Director.

Riggins previously served as board chairperson during the incredibly successful hosting of the Lesbian and Gay Band Association’s Annual Conference in Kansas City, MO in 2018 and she is currently an at-large board member for the Lesbian and Gay Band Association.

“Jessie is a stalwart leader, talented musician, staunch LGBTQ+ ally, and amazing person. We’re honored that she will continue to use her considerable wealth of knowledge and compassion in this new position,” artistic director Lee Hartman writes. In her new role, Riggins’ primary responsibility will be to program, conduct, and rehearse the award-winning Mighty Mo Combo as music director.  

“I am thrilled to continue with Show-Me Pride Ensembles in this new capacity,” Riggins stated. “The Mighty Mo Combo and Mid America Freedom Band are both made up of terrific volunteer musicians who dedicate their time and talents to make music together as a family, and it’s wonderful to be a part of that magic.” 

Welcome, Jessie!

Jessie Riggins attended the University of Central Missouri where she studied Music History and Literature, with a research interest in 20th century avant-garde music and the Fluxus movement. After completing her master’s coursework, Jessica served as adjunct instructor at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, MO as well as the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO, teaching undergraduate courses in music appreciation, music history, and woodwind pedagogy. She was the jazz critic for the online publication KCMetropolis, and currently is Communication Coordinator at the UMKC Conservatory and serves as the Pi A Province Officer for Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity.

The Mid America Freedom Band is a community ensemble of LGBTQ+ and allied adult volunteer instrumental musicians with about 80 playing members. MAFB provides opportunities for instrumental music lovers to share their passion for performance with the diverse community of Kansas City.