Biography

Christopher Sampson, associate dean for external relations at the USC Thornton School, enjoys a multi-faceted career as a performer, educator, producer and arts administrator. In addition to his administrative duties, Mr. Sampson is a lecturer in the USC Thornton songwriting program. Prior to his current appointment, Mr. Sampson served as the assistant dean for enrollment and financial aid at the USC Thornton School and the vice president for academic affairs for the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music.  He has also served on the faculty of the recording industry program at Middle Tennessee State University.

Mr. Sampson is regarded as a specialist in pre-World War II Blues and American Roots music and is a frequent guest lecturer in USC’s “Music of the Black Americas” and “Communication in the Music Industry” classes. As a traditional blues artist, Mr. Sampson performs extensively throughout the Los Angeles area and presents workshops on blues history, culture and performance practice. As an independent producer, he has recorded numerous classical, jazz, popular and Americana CDs. Mr. Sampson earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in classical guitar performance from the USC Thornton School of Music.