Dr. James Barger
Saxophonist • Pedagogue • Performer

James Barger is an active performer and educator, known for his dynamic presence on stage and in the classroom. He currently 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 oversees the university’s spirited Pep Band, affectionately known as “The Band in the Box.”

Equally at home in classical and jazz settings, James is a sought-after soloist, chamber musician, and woodwind doubler. He has performed with the Amarillo Symphony, Lubbock Symphony Orchestra, and Midland-Odessa Symphony and appeared in the pit for more than 20 musical theater productions, including Les Misérables, Young Frankenstein, and Mary Poppins.

James is passionate about chamber music and is a founding member of the award-winning Mirasol Quartet. The group has earned top honors in prestigious competitions, including the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition (Gold Medal, Wind Division, 2015), the Music Teachers National Association Chamber Music Competition (Third Place, 2014), and the Enkor Chamber Music Competition (Grand Prize, 2016). Mirasol has performed at renowned events such as the Texas Music Educators Association Conference, the Midwest Clinic, and the North American Saxophone Alliance, in addition to presenting clinics and concerts nationwide to advocate for music education in public schools.

In 2022, James co-founded the Triptych Trio, an innovative chamber ensemble featuring saxophone, violin, and piano. The trio has rapidly gained recognition for its dynamic performances, touring Texas and earning invitations to perform nationally and internationally, including in Colombia.

James also maintains an active summer teaching schedule, serving on the faculties of the WTAMU Band and Orchestra Camp, the Young Saxophonist’s Institute, and the Asia Pacific Saxophone Academy in Bangkok, Thailand. His teaching philosophy emphasizes effective practice strategies, music entrepreneurship, and the adaptation of new music for saxophone and saxophone ensembles.

James earned his BM and MM degrees from West Texas A&M University and a DMA from Texas Tech University, studying with renowned teachers David Dees, Stephen Jones, Don Lefevre, and Mark Alewine. He is proud to be a performing artist for Selmer Paris saxophones and D’Addario Woodwinds, presenting clinics and performances nationwide on their behalf.

When he’s not teaching or performing, James enjoys spending time with his wife, Brianne, and their dog, Nala, exploring the beautiful Texas Panhandle, tackling early mornings at the CrossFit gym, and savoring a strong cup of coffee. An active volunteer, he also gives back to his community through the Canyon Lions Club.