James Fellenbaum holds a distinguished position at the University of Tennessee College of Music, serving as an Associate Professor of Conducting and the Director of Orchestras. His journey in music is marked by a deep passion for leading ensembles, a passion that has seen him conduct across a remarkable spectrum of musical styles. Whether it's the grandeur of symphonic works, the intimacy of chamber music, the energy of pops, the storytelling of ballet and opera, the power of choral-orchestral pieces, or the unique challenge of live film scores, James brings a wealth of experience and a keen musical insight to the podium. At the heart of the University of Tennessee's vibrant music scene, James has been instrumental in shaping the Orchestra Program into what it is today. His leadership extends across several key ensembles, providing students with invaluable opportunities to perform and grow. He personally oversees and conducts the Symphony Orchestra, the Chamber Orchestra, the Contemporary Music Ensemble, and the UT Opera Theater, fostering an environment of high musical standards and dedicated learning. Beyond the university campus, James is a significant figure in the Knoxville musical community. He serves as the Resident Conductor for the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, a role that sees him regularly leading performances and connecting with audiences throughout the region. His presence on the KSO podium enriches the cultural landscape of Knoxville and highlights his commitment to bringing orchestral music to a wider public. Further demonstrating his dedication to nurturing musical talent, James also holds the position of Music Director for the Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestra Association. Here, he works directly with aspiring young musicians, guiding their development, refining their skills, and instilling in them a lifelong love for orchestral performance. This mentorship is a vital part of his contribution to the future of music. James's own musical journey began with a strong foundation in violoncello performance, which later evolved into a focus on orchestral conducting. This dual background provides him with a unique perspective and deep understanding of the music he leads. His performances have consistently garnered critical acclaim, and his conducting career has taken him to stages both within the United States and internationally, solidifying his reputation on a global scale. Throughout his career, James has remained steadfast in his commitment to championing orchestral music and fostering its appreciation among diverse audiences. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning him recognition from both his peers in the musical world and the many listeners who have experienced his performances. He continues to be a source of inspiration for the next generation of conductors and instrumentalists. His unwavering passion for music, combined with his dedication to excellence in both performance and education, makes James Fellenbaum an invaluable asset to the University of Tennessee and a cherished member of the broader musical community. His work resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impact on the students he teaches, the musicians he leads, and the audiences he moves.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville College of Music provides a dynamic environment for musical education, performance, and scholarly pursuit. Offering a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in performance, education, composition, musicology, and music business, the college supports diverse student interests. Students learn and perform in exceptional facilities like the Natalie L. Haslam Music Center, featuring the Sandra G. Powell Recital Hall and extensive practice spaces, alongside the historic James R. Cox Auditorium. With distinguished faculty and a supportive community, including a music-focused living option, the college provides a rich environment for aspiring musicians and scholars to thrive and achieve recognition.
The University of Tennessee (UT) is a public land-grant research university in Knoxville, Tennessee. Founded in 1794, it is the flagship campus of the University of Tennessee system. UT Knoxville has ten undergraduate colleges and eleven graduate colleges, and it hosts more than 30,000 students from all 50 states and more than 100 foreign countries. It is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities Very high research activity".