Kendra Wheeler

Kendra Wheeler brings an incisive artistic voice and expansive vision to the saxophone—reimagining performance as a site of inquiry, expression, and cultural dialogue. Her artistry centers on the performance of cultural and expressive discourse, treating music not only as sound but as a living, interpretive practice through which meaning is examined, reshaped, and communicated across personal and cultural dimensions.

Her artistic practice spans standard repertoire, contemporary works, experimental music, and beyond, allowing her to cultivate a performance language that is adaptive, nuanced, and distinctly personal. This versatility reflects both her technical command and her commitment to engaging with music as a multifaceted, evolving form.

Wheeler’s international career as an artist and educator is widely recognized. She has performed throughout North and South America and Europe, including appearances at the Chicago Symphony Center and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. She has presented solo recitals, masterclasses, and residencies at institutions such as Virginia Tech, UCLA, and the University of the Republic of Uruguay. Her achievements have been recognized by the Concert Artists Guild, the Vandoren Emerging Artist Competition, and DOWNBEAT Magazine.

Wheeler leads several ongoing initiatives that reflect the range and vision of her artistic work. Her Personal Repertory Project serves as a platform for creative exploration, critical engagement, and repertoire development. She is the founder of the Women of Color in Classical Saxophone Group, a mentorship and advocacy network focused on supporting women of color within the field. She also performs as the alto saxophonist in the Medusa Saxophone Quartet, an all-women ensemble dedicated to performance, collaboration, and outreach with early-career composers and new voices in the saxophone repertoire.

As Assistant Professor of Music at Louisiana State University, Wheeler’s pedagogy emphasizes rigorous technique, expressive interpretation, and an understanding of music’s cultural and societal contexts. Her teaching fosters artistic curiosity, thoughtful reflection, and the development of an individual musical voice.

Wheeler is an Eastman Artist, performing on the EAS 850 Rue Saint Georges, and a performing artist for Légère Reeds and Key Leaves.