Kendra Wheeler
Kendra Wheeler is a musician, saxophonist, and educator who advances saxophone artistry, teaching, and musicianship by expanding repertoire, building support networks, innovating applied pedagogy, and developing versatile skills that prepare students for broad musical careers. Her performance, research, and collaborations focus on musical line, gesture, and form, exploring lyrical phrasing and angular musical structures across traditional, contemporary, and experimental repertoire. Through this work, she promotes equity-driven practice and supports greater access and opportunity within the saxophone field.
Her international career spans performances, masterclasses, and residencies across 20 U.S. states and nine countries. Since 2020, she has delivered over 50 performances and lectures, and commissioned more than 25 new works, contributing to the instrument’s growth and diversity. Her artistry and innovation have been recognized by prestigious organizations such as the Concert Artists Guild and Vandoren Emerging Artist Competition.
At Louisiana State University, Wheeler’s teaching emphasizes reflective practice and intentional musical decision-making, preparing students to become versatile, thoughtful musicians across a range of professional paths. She also developed the institution’s first Communication-Intensive Saxophone Pedagogy course, providing structured training in diagnosing performance challenges, sequencing material, and designing curricula for diverse learners. Through applied lessons, group instruction, and mentorship, she encourages students to develop interpretive insight, technical mastery, and an adaptive approach to performance and teaching.
Wheeler’s commitment to mentorship and equity extends beyond the studio. She founded the Women of Color in Classical Saxophone Network, co-chairs the North American Saxophone Alliance’s DEIBA Committee, and curates the Anthology of Saxophone Music by Black Composers, amplifying diverse voices while fostering a more inclusive saxophone tradition. She has also guided students to multiple national competition wins, emphasizing both artistic excellence and professional development.
As alto saxophonist of the Medusa Saxophone Quartet, Wheeler collaborates with composers, commissions new works, completes educational outreach, and advocates for historically excluded artists. Her work integrates performance with mentorship and community engagement.
Wheeler is an Assistant Professor at Louisiana State University, an Eastman Artist, performing on the EAS 850 Rue Saint Georges, and a performing artist for Légère Reeds and Key Leaves.
