Joshua A. James

17 Years of K-12 music teaching experience (K-12 certified in the state of Michigan) 10 years of university music teaching experience 18 years as a professional musician (woodwind specialist), composer, arranger 10 years as musical/educational administrator versatility as a musician (piano, saxes, clarinets, flutes, vocal) creator of innovative lesson plans focusing on student-centered and collaborative learning practices adeptness with current music technology hardware and software, MIDI, and notational practices energetic teaching style that seeks to engage learners with the material and their environment passion for developing comprehensive musicianship and understanding of the musical arts in a kind and nurturing environment Persistent leader eager to lead and grow organizations. Skilled in strategic planning, problem-solving, and communication with good understanding of business principles, project management and team leadership. Collaborative with relentless work ethic. Pragmatic professional with solid experience in leadership roles. Adept at implementing strategic business plans, driving growth and improving operations. Skilled in financial management and stakeholder relations. Collaborative and dedicated to building and leading talented and motivated individuals. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.

• Oakland University, Scholarship and Doctoral Assistantship, 2014, 2017
• Oakland University, Matilda Award recipient for outstanding graduate instrumental performance, 2014, 2014
• Madonna University, Faculty research grant recipient, 2016, 2016
• Albion College, Tony Taffs Award for Composition recipient, 2001, 2002
• Albion College, Presser Foundation Scholarship for Music recipient, 2000, 2001
• Albion College, Foundation for Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity grant recipient for music, 1999, 2000
• Albion College, Albion College Jazz Ensemble Outstanding Service Award recipient, 1999, 2000
• Albion College, Jacqueline Maag Prize in Music History recipient, 1999, 2000

• Authentic Performance Practices in Student Jazz Ensembles” – 2016, International Society for Music Education
• Procession of the Expatriates” – 2016, composition for concert band.
• Comin Home” – 2014, composition for jazz ensemble, featuring Steve Wilson, Oakland University.
• Toward Meaning-Making in the Non-Traditional Instrumental Classroom” – 2014, Oakland University, Master’s Thesis.
• Polly” - 2013, Musical composition for jazz ensemble, submitted for the annual J.C. Heard Composition Contest and presented at the 2013 Detroit International Jazz Festival.
• Sisrahtac: the Legitimacy of Free-Form Improvisation in Contemporary Music ” – 2001, Albion College Honors Thesis.

• Music Educators National Conference
• Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association
• International Society for Music Education
• American Society of Composers, Arrangers, and Publishers
• Phi Mu Alpha Music Fraternity

• Presenter, International Society for Music Education, Glasgow, Scotland, July 2016 “Authentic Performance Practices in Student Jazz Ensembles”
• Grant recipient $25,000 through the Wikiera Foundation for the express purpose of taking the OLSM Jazz Band on tour in Poland (2015) to perform at the LOTOS International Jazz Festival in Bielsko, Poland.
• Grant recipient, $20,000 through the Kid Rock Foundation for the express purposes of enhancing both our Music Technology and Instrumental Music programs (2010).
• Music Director/Administrator, “Planet D. Nonet” performing ensemble, (2007-2015). Scheduled domestic and international performances, rehearsals, and travel for a touring ensemble of 10 musicians.

Professional Level Teaching Certificate State of Michigan, K-12 Music Education