James McDonald is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in percussion performance from Texas Tech University.  He previously earned his bachelor’s degree in percussion performance from Texas Christian University and his master’s degree in percussion performance from Texas Tech University.  

His performance credits include appearances with ensembles at such prestigious conferences as the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (2002, 2005, 2008, and 2011), Texas Music Educators Association Convention (2005, 2008, and 2012), and the International Society for Music Education Conference in Beijing, China (2010).  Mr. McDonald was the Principal Percussionist for the Big Spring (TX) Symphony Orchestra from 2007-2011, is on the sub-list for the Midland-Odessa (TX) Symphony and Chorale, and also performs regularly with the Lubbock (TX) Symphony Orchestra.  He has served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant/Instructor at Texas Tech University working with the Texas Tech University Goin’ Band from Raiderland Drumline from 2007-2009. 

Currently, he is the Percussion Director at Lubbock High School composing for and instructing the drumline. He marched with the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps as a member of the front ensemble for three years from 2004-2006, and was a member of the WGI drumline Metro Alliance in 2006. Mr. McDonald has competed in solo and ensemble competitions at several Percussive Arts Society International Conventions.