Dianthe Spencer

Dr. Dianthe Spencer is a Professor of Jazz and Musical Theatre at San Francisco State University's School of Theatre & Dance, and founder of the university's Jazz Studies program. She holds a B.S. from Florida A&M University, an M.M. from Washington University in St. Louis, and an EdD from the University of San Francisco. Her expertise spans Jazz performance, improvisation, education, and history, alongside contributions to contemporary music and musical theatre.

Her research interests emphasize bridging jazz traditions with modern performance practices, reflected in her compositions for films like Smile Orange and her critically-acclaimed albums such as Tranquility. She actively mentors students through initiatives like the Calling All Singers program and has performed globally with artists including Wynton Marsalis and Ledisi.

Dr. Spencer serves on boards for organizations like SFJAZZ and the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences. Her community work includes directing music programs for the East Bay Center for the Performing Arts and contributing to cultural events like the SF International Arts Festival.