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Jill Marlar, a seasoned educator and multi-talented artist, has recently relocated to Greenville, bringing with her a wealth of experience in teaching, visual arts, and performing arts. With over 25 years of experience, Marlar has been offering music, drama, and art classes through her business, Jill Marlar Creative, catering to students of all ages. Marlar, who’s husband’s family owns a farm in the area, says her move to Greenville marks a new chapter in her career, where she aims to enrich the community through her passion for music and creative expression.

In Greenville, Marlar is launching youth group music classes and private voice lessons for ages 9-18, with each group meeting for 6 weeks on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. She is also offering three need-based scholarships per 6-week course. 

“We’ve always known about Greenville, We drive through it to go to the farm. We knew the history here because of family and we knew some people here,” Marlar said. “We came down last fall and participated in a little festival and from following Danan’s (Danan Whiddon) page, I love downtown Greenville, it really helped us to fall in love with the city. To see it and to see its heart.”

Marlar, who is a trained singer and voice-over artist, has a background in both choral singing and musical theater. Her acting career began on the stage at the Terrific New Theatre in Birmingham, where she delivered memorable performances in productions such as “Doubt A Parable,” “Lend Me Teno,” and “Split In Three.” She has also made significant contributions to the local film and corporate industries, with her work featured in several short films showcased at film festivals.

“We really noticed that in the creative arts aspect, there used to be a very robust arts community here, particularly with the theater,” Marlar said. “Then for one reason or another, especially during 2020 things kind of lost their thunder so I really saw that need.”

Marlar is eager to continue her MUSE program in Greenville, offering a platform for adults to connect creatively through weekly gatherings focused on sharing and support. The sessions encourage exploration in various creative forms, including music, word, movement, and voice, with the goal of reigniting participants’ creative passion and confidence. The program also invites guest creatives from the area and beyond to lead workshops, emphasizing that the process itself is the goal.

Nancy Idland, Director of the Greenville Area Arts Council, is optimistic about the impact of Marlar’s programs on the local community. 

“This is such a great opportunity for our community,” Idland said. “I hope locals will take advantage of these opportunities and consider lessons for themselves or their children.”

Looking ahead, Marlar plans to expand her offerings to include summer camp programs and adult music jams.

Those interested in signing up for classes can do so through the company’s website at www.jillmarlar.com.