BIO
“Coty Raven Morris is the most important music educator of our time.” – Suzanne Nance, President & CEO, All Classical Radio
New Orleans native Coty Raven Morris is a conductor, composer, poet, and community-centered music educator who believes deeply in the transformative power of collective singing. Her compassion for music-making in diverse communities fuels every aspect of her work—from the rehearsal room to the concert hall.
She is the Hinckley Assistant Professor of Choir, Music Education, and Social Justice at Portland State University, where she mentors the next generation of teacher-artists. A proud alumna of Texas State University-San Marcos, she studied with Drs. Lynn Brinckmeyer and Joey Martin, and earned her Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Michigan State University under Drs. David Rayl, Jonathan Reed, and Sandra Snow.
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Before PSU, she led award-winning choral programs at Crosby High School in Houston, served as the Outreach Choir Director at MSU’s Community Music School, and was Music Director at Grand Ledge United Methodist Church. Her ensembles consistently earned top UIL and festival honors and were known for their heart as much as their sound.
Morris is a two-time Music Educator Grammy Finalist (2024, 2025) and a Yamaha '40 Under 40' honoree. She was awarded the Hays CISD Linebarger Academic Recognition Award and Galena Park ISD’s Dazzling Diamond Award for her outstanding mentorship and leadership. Her national presence continues to grow through frequent keynote appearances and clinician roles at ACDA and NAfME events.
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A frequent speaker at conferences, her reach has extended through her partnership with Music Workshop, where she co-developed a national professional development curriculum centered on wellness, equity, and accessible teaching. She has served as a chorus master and artistic collaborator with Portland Center Stage, the Oregon Symphony Orchestra, and Choirs of America. She also hosts for All Classical Radio and the International Children’s Arts Network (ICAN), fostering creativity and joy for listeners of all ages.
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A newly published author and composer, her poetry and choral works have been performed by honor choirs and featured at festivals across the country. As Founder of Being Human Together, Morris cultivates spaces of honesty and connection in music education by exploring topics like mental health and inclusion.
And when she’s not conducting, composing, or building community through song—you might find her in the boxing gym, leading with rhythm, resilience, and a whole 'lot of joy!