Barnes studied composition and music theory at the University of Kansas, earning a Bachelor of Music in 1974, and Master of Music in 1975. He studied conducting privately with Zuohuang Chen. In 1977 he joined the faculty at the University of Kansas as professor of music theory and composition. He retired in August 2015, but retains his emeritus status at KU. [2]
Barnes is also a tubist and has performed with numerous professional organizations in the United States.[1]
His numerous compositions are frequently played in America, Europe, Japan, Taiwan and Australia. The Japanese concert bandTokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra has produced 3 CDs to date with works of James Barnes.
Sixth Symphony, Op. 130 (written for the Lake Braddock High School Symphonic Band)
Andante, ma non troppo
Adagio
Allegro energico
Seventh Symphony – "Symphonic Requiem", Op. 135
Prologue - The Hornet's Nest (Shiloh, April 1862)
Marye's Heights (Fredericksburg, December 1862)
Longstreet's Assault (The Third Day at Gettysburg, July 1863)
Apotheosis (Appomattox, 1865)
Eighth Symphony – "for Wangen", Op. 148 (written for the 1200 anniversary of Wangen im Allgäu in 2015, premiere on March 20, 2015 in Wangen im Allgäu by Stadtkapelle Wangen conducted by James Barnes.)[9]
Ninth Symphony – "Elegy', Op. 160 (commissioned by a consortium of twenty-one college bands, including the University of North Texas Symphonic Band, community bands, professional bands and individuals to help mark the 70th birthday of the composer.)[10]
