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James Forger is the Dean of the College of Music at Michigan State University, where he also serves as a Professor of Saxophone. He earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Michigan and began his academic career at East Carolina University as an assistant professor of saxophone. Forger joined the MSU faculty in 1979 and became the director of the School of Music in 1990. Under his leadership, the College has grown in quality, size, and diversity, adding programs in jazz studies, ethnomusicology, collaborative piano, music theory pedagogy, piano pedagogy, and early childhood music. He has also emphasized the importance of entrepreneurial musicianship and the diverse needs of students. His efforts have led to significant investments in faculty retention and support for research and performance within the College. Forger has overseen successful facility expansion and renovation projects, including the opening of the $42 million Billman Music Pavilion in 2020 and renovations of key performance spaces. He is an active saxophone performer, having performed at the Grand Teton Music Festival for over 25 years. In 2024, he was elected as the vice president and president-elect of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).
Michigan State University College of Music • East Lansing, MI
Oversees the College, fostering growth in music education and expanding programmatic offerings while enhancing student learning experiences.
Department of Psychology