James Spinazzola
Dr. James Spinazzola is Director of Bands and Instrumental Activities at the University of Indianapolis, where his responsibilities include the direction of the Symphonic Wind Ensemble and the instruction of courses in conducting and woodwind pedagogy. He also serves as Associate Conductor of the Indianapolis Brass Choir, and on the board of the Indianapolis Symphonic Band. Previously Associate Director of Bands and Saxophone Instructor at Tennessee Tech University, he began his career as the Director of Music at Frankfort High School (West Virginia). From 1999 until 2007 he was also on the faculty of the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts. He has served as a guest conductor and clinician in Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia; most recently he directed the 2008 Georgia All-State Jazz Ensemble.
Dr. Spinazzola’s publications include articles in the Teaching Music Through Performance in Band series (GIA Publications) and a wind ensemble transcription of John Adams’ Lollapalooza (Boosey & Hawkes). His transcriptions, arrangements and compositions for wind ensemble, jazz band and marching band have been performed by ensembles in the United States, Canada and Japan, at conferences of the College Band Directors National Association, and at the Percussive Arts Society International Conference. He recently completed a commissioned work for jazz ensemble for the Nashville Ballet (Tennessee). Also active as a saxophonist, Dr. Spinazzola has recorded a compact disc for the Mark Custom label, and his playing has earned praise in Saxophone Journal, Downbeat, and Bandworld magazines. His degrees are from Duquesne University (BS), the University of Colorado (MM), and Louisiana State University (DMA); his principal conducting teachers were Allan McMurray and Frank Wickes.