James W. Story
Music Educator • Conductor • Composer • Mentor • Author
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James W. Story is a 42-year veteran of music education, a lifelong conductor, composer, mentor, and a celebrated community leader in Gallatin, Tennessee.
His musical journey began at age 13 at the piano, and he went on to become the first Black drum major at Greeneville Junior High, Greeneville High School, and the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagle Marching Band.
He earned his Bachelor of Music from Tennessee Technological University (1977) and a Master of Music Education from Austin Peay State University (1986).
James began his teaching career as band and choir director at:
• White House High School (1977–1981)
• Gallatin High School (1981–1997)
His programs consistently earned superior ratings in band and choral performance.
In 1997, he joined Volunteer State Community College, where he:
• Founded the Recording Industry and Music Technology Program
• Served as Chair of the Visual and Performing Arts Department
• Led the development of:
• Associate of Fine Arts in Music
• Entertainment Media degree
• Professional Music AAS program (2016)
He also produced 35+ student CD projects, 40+ annual music showcases, and oversaw the completion of a state-of-the-art recording and rehearsal facility in 2016.
As a church musician and director, James has served:
• Pruitt Hill UMC (Greeneville)
• Rockland Missionary Baptist (Hendersonville)
• Gallatin First United Methodist Church (current Director of Music)
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Conductor & Music Leadership
James W. Story is not only an educator but also an active conductor and musical leader, lending his expertise to community ensembles, church ministries, and music education initiatives.
• Conductor-in-Residence, Willow Oak Chorale, Springfield, TN
• Director-in-Residence, Gallatin First United Methodist Church
• Music Camp Director for seasonal youth and community programs
• Consultant for Music Educators Professional Development In-Service Training, inspiring teachers through curriculum development, performance coaching, and leadership workshops
He has conducted numerous choral and orchestral works, collaborating with community ensembles, churches, and schools to create inspiring musical performances and educational experiences.
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Accomplishments
• Recording Program Development
Built Vol State’s recording and music curriculum from the ground up, creating academic and professional pathways for aspiring musicians.
• Theatre & Community Leadership
Music director for major productions including:
Les Misérables, Mary Poppins, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,
Jesus Christ Superstar, The Music Man, Fame, A Christmas Carol, and Shrek.
• Original Creative Work
• Awarded a National Endowment for the Arts / Alternate ROOTS grant for Tennessee Roots, a musical tribute to Negro spirituals and Appalachian folk music
• Presented research on spirituals at the 2003 Hawaii International Conference on Arts and Humanities
• Mentorship & Legacy
Guided the careers of recording artists, Broadway musicians, cruise line performers, and notable alumni including American Idol finalist Kimberley Locke.
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Honors & Recognition
• Grammy Foundation Educator of the Year (2015, Semi-Finalist) – Top 25 nationwide from 7,000 applicants
• Bellwether Award Nominee (2014) – Interdisciplinary CD Project in Music & Technology
• League for Innovation in the Community College – Innovations of the Year Award
• 2013, 2014, 2017 for groundbreaking student recording projects
• Gallatin Citizen of the Year (2020)
• Recognized by Tennessee Senate Joint Resolution SJR0035 for decades of music education, mentorship, and cultural preservation
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Author & Publications
In addition to his celebrated career as a music educator and conductor, James W. Story is a published author, sharing his inspiring journey and passion for music, mentorship, and faith through both adult memoirs and children’s literature.
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This Is My Story, This Is My Song, This Is My Miracle
A Memoir of Faith, Music, and Resilience
This powerful memoir traces James W. Story’s journey of survival and purpose, from his early life and deep family roots to his miraculous recovery from COVID‑19. Through music, faith, and prayer, he shares lessons of resilience and divine guidance, interweaving hymns, personal reflections, and ancestral stories.
“A testament to the power of faith, family, and the music that heals the soul.”
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The Boy with the Baton
A Children’s Story of Music, Mentorship, and Dreams
Inspired by his own life, this heartwarming picture book follows young Malik, who discovers the joy of music and leadership through the symbolic baton. With encouragement from teachers and community, Malik learns that no dream is too big and no child too small to lead. Perfect for ages 5–10.
“A celebration of music, community, and the dreams that begin in childhood.”
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The Companion Coloring Book
Interactive Fun that Brings the Story to Life
This interactive coloring book expands on The Boy with the Baton, letting children recreate Malik’s journey through art. It combines storytelling and creativity, reinforcing themes of imagination, leadership, and musical discovery.
“Color your way into the music—where imagination meets inspiration”