Where dreams are free and creativity abounds!

Background:

  • Educator-Professor Emeritus of Volunteer State Community College
  • Former Band and Choral Director at White House High and Gallatin High Schools
  • President of JStoProductions and JStoPublishing
  • Musician-In-Residence at Gallatin First United Methodist Church 

Check out my YouTube Channel here:

COMING SOON 

When My Spirit Speaks by James W. Story

When My Spirit Speaks is a soulful collection of spoken words, poems, and reflective musings that invite readers into the heart of James W. Story’s creative and spiritual journey. Through rhythmic verses and heartfelt perspectives, he weaves together themes of faith, resilience, history, and hope. Each piece is a conversation between the soul and the world—uplifting, thought-provoking, and deeply human.

The Boy with the Baton
The Boy with the Baton is a heartwarming children’s story by James W. Story about a young boy who dreams of leading an orchestra. This inspiring tale celebrates music, leadership, and perseverance, perfect for ages 5–12.

Companion Coloring Book
Bring the story to life! The coloring book allows children to illustrate their own musical journey, making it a favorite for classrooms and music programs.

Inspire young readers with the story of a boy who dreams of leading an orchestra and learns that perseverance makes dreams come true. The coloring book brings the story to life with fun, interactive pages—perfect for home, classrooms, or music programs.

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James W. Story, Gallatin’s 2020 Citizen of the Year

Honored by Tennessee Senate Joint Resolution SJR0035, James W. Story was recognized as Gallatin’s 2020 Citizen of the Year for over four decades of service as a music educator, mentor, and community leader. His lifelong dedication to teaching, cultural advocacy, and preserving the African American spiritual tradition has inspired generations and enriched the Gallatin community.

James W. Story – Gallatin’s Cultural and Musical Leader, has spent over four decades enriching Gallatin through music, education, and cultural preservation. A lifelong advocate for African American spirituals, he produce New World Spirituals: 1619–2019 and has led numerous stage productions and community ensembles. His work blends mentorship, creative performance, and public speaking, sharing both the historical significance of Black spirituals and his own inspiring journey of faith and resilience.

Gallatin Downtown Banner
Installed in February 2025, this streetlight banner featuring James W. Story is part of the City of
Gallatin’s Black History Month initiative—an effort led by historian Velma Brinkley and the Union
High School Museum Board to honor local Black leaders and historic sites through prominent
downtown displays celebrating the city’s rich cultural legacy.

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Member of ASCAP (American Society of Composers and Publishers)