11:00 a.m. Professional Development Program

Arlene Sharp, Owner and Publisher of Jacksonian Press

“The Life and Music of Betty Jackson King”

Since her aunt’s passing in 1994, Arlene has worked tirelessly to bring global attention to King’s music. Through social media and digital outreach, she has helped facilitate over 150 video performances of her works on YouTube. While much of King’s life was spent outside of Chicago, Arlene has been committed to gathering firsthand accounts from those who knew her personally, enriching the historical narrative surrounding her compositions.

BIOGRAPHY

Arlene Sharp is the niece of renowned composer, pianist, and educator Betty Jackson King. Honoring a promise she made to her aunt, Arlene has dedicated herself to preserving and promoting King’s musical legacy. She is the owner and publisher of her aunt’s works through Jacksonian Press, Inc., ensuring that King’s compositions remain accessible to musicians, educators, and scholars.

Since her aunt’s passing in 1994, Arlene has worked tirelessly to bring global attention to King’s music. Through social media and digital outreach, she has helped facilitate over 150 video performances of her works on YouTube. While much of King’s life was spent outside of Chicago, Arlene has been committed to gathering firsthand accounts from those who knew her personally, enriching the historical narrative surrounding her compositions.

In addition to her work in music publishing, Arlene is a retired Assistant Principal and serves as the Free Meal Coordinator at Saint John Church-Baptist in Chicago, continuing her lifelong commitment to education and community service.

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