Dr. Amber James is an associate professor of music and music department coordinator at Southern Wesleyan University. Prior to joining the faculty at Southern Wesleyan, she taught privately and performed publicly in New York City. She earned her bachelor of arts degree in music education and piano from Southern Wesleyan in 2004, followed by a master of music degree in vocal performance from the University of Georgia in 2010. In 2018, she completed her doctor of musical arts degree in vocal performance and pedagogy at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Currently, Dr. James teaches a range of courses at Southern Wesleyan University, including voice majors, sophomore theory and aural fundamentals, vocal pedagogy, diction, and music and art appreciation.

In addition to her teaching duties, Dr. James serves as the director for Student Productions. She has successfully directed productions such as Little Women, Newsies, Titanic, and The Little Mermaid. Furthermore, she created Showstopper Spectacular, an annual themed musical revue that is presented during Homecoming weekend every fall.

Dr. James has an extensive background as a performer, showcasing her talents in opera, oratorio, musical theater, and gospel performances across the globe. Notably, she currently holds the position of music director at the Biblical Times Dinner Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, where she also takes on singing and acting roles when required. Dr. James' unwavering passion for music is evident in her commitment to educating others through various musical activities.

Education

• D.M.A in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy, University of Southern Mississippi
• M.M. in Vocal Performance, University of Georgia
• B.A. in Music Education and Piano, Southern Wesleyan University

Areas of Specialty/Interest

• Vocal Pedagogy
• Church Music
• Piano, teaching and accompanying
• Director of Spring Musical
• Broadway Style Singing