Coppage named to Mississippi Arts Commission Artist Roster
The Mississippi Arts Commission has announced its FY26–FY29 Artist Roster, naming Mississippi Delta songwriter and educator Will Coppage among a select group of artists chosen through a competitive, panel-reviewed process.
The MAC Artist Roster recognizes exceptional artistic talent across the state. Artists are selected by panels of professional artists, presenters and educators based on artistic excellence, community impact and the ability to engage Mississippi audiences.
Coppage is a Delta-based songwriter, performer and educator whose work draws from Mississippi’s musical traditions while pushing those foundations forward through modern, indie-influenced storytelling. A U.S. military veteran, Coppage holds Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Fine Arts degrees in creative writing and has years of experience teaching at the college level, blending literary craft with musical expression.
“My work is about honoring where we come from while giving others the tools to tell their own stories honestly and boldly,” Coppage said.
“Being included on the Mississippi Arts Commission Artist Roster is an honor, and it reinforces the importance of Mississippi’s living, evolving creative culture.”
Coppage has toured extensively across the United States and internationally, including performances throughout Europe. His recent collaborations with Stud Ford, grandson of blues legend T-Model Ford, highlight his commitment to preserving Mississippi’s musical heritage while expanding its reach to new audiences.
In addition to more than 20 years of performance experience, Coppage has nearly a decade of experience in Delta-focused economic development and consulting. He is a member of the International Singer-Songwriters Association and the Mississippi Songwriters Alliance, and his original songs are registered with ASCAP.
Organizations across Mississippi may apply for grant funding to present artists from the MAC roster. Coppage’s artist profile and grant information are available at arts.ms.gov/artist/will-coppage. A full list of selected artists is available at arts.ms.gov/artist-roster.
