Dr. James Barger
Saxophonist • Pedagogue • Performer
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Dr. James Barger serves as Associate Professor of Saxophone at West Texas A&M University, where he teaches applied saxophone and jazz improvisation, directs Jazz Band II and the Saxophone Ensemble, and serves as a faculty advisor for the lively Pep Band (“The Band in the Box”) and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity.
A highly versatile musician, he performs across classical and jazz genres, appearing with the Amarillo, Lubbock, and Midland‑Odessa symphonies, the Amarillo Little Theatre, and as a founding member of Mirasol Quartet (Fischoff Gold Medal, MTNA finalist, Enkor Grand Prize). In 2022, he co‑founded the innovative Triptych Trio (violin, saxophone, piano), touring regionally and nationally. Dr. Barger holds a DMA from Texas Tech University and BM/MM from West Texas A&M University. His primary teachers have been David Dees, Stephen Jones, Don Lefevre, and Mark Alewine. He is a performing artist with Selmer Paris and D'Addario Woodwinds. |
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About James
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Hi there! I’m James Barger, an educator who believes that great playing and artistry start with a positive mindset, and serious work should be fun. As head of the WTAMU saxophone studio, I coach students in saxophone fundamentals, technique, interpretation, and performance with an emphasis on intentional practice, efficiency, and creative growth. I teach privately (both in‑person and online), serve on the staff of renowned summer programs (including WTAMU Band & Orchestra Camp and the Young Saxophonist’s Institute), and guide chamber ensembles across genres. Beyond the stage and studio, I prioritize optimizing habits, establishing effective systems, and refining productivity workflows. I live in Canyon with my wife and our dog, where coffee, CrossFit, and reading are part of my daily routine. I believe that community service, long career goals, and saxophone playing aren’t mutually exclusive. My mission is to build an oasis for serious saxophonists in the Texas Panhandle, whether you’re auditioning for the All‑State Band for the first time or envisioning a future in music. |
Quick Facts
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Equipment
SopranoSelmer Paris Series III Jubilee
Selmer S90 Mouthpiece, 190 Facing Ishimori Woodstone Ligature D'Addario Reserve Reeds D'Addario Venn Reeds (clarinet) |
AltoSelmer Paris Series II
Selmer S90 Mouthpiece, 180 Facing Ishimori Woodstone Ligature D'Addario Reserve Reeds D'Addario Venn Reeds Vandoren V16 Mouthpiece D'Addario Venn Reeds |
TenorSelmer Paris Series II
Selmer S90 Mouthpiece, 180 Facing D'Addario Reserve Reeds D'Addario Venn Reeds D'Addario Select Jazz Mouthpiece D'Addario Venn Reeds |
BaritoneSelmer Paris Series II
Eugene Rousseau Mouthpiece, 5R Selmer S80 Mouthpiece, C* D'Addario Reserve Reeds Legere Signature Reeds Rico Metalite Mouthpiece D'Addario Select Jazz Reeds |