Jennifer Barnes

Jennifer Barnes is a Professor and Director of Vocal Jazz Studies at the University of North Texas. She transitioned from Los Angeles to accept this role, combining her expertise in vocal jazz performance, education, and arranging. Her career spans studio recordings, live performances, and television/film appearances, including roles in Wall-E, Star Trek, and the TV show Glee. She has released a solo jazz CD, You Taught My Heart, and collaborates with groups like Vertical Voices Live and Sixth Wave, whose album Happy Madness has garnered acclaim.

Her education includes a Master of Music in Studio Music and Jazz Performance from the University of Miami (FL) and a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Western Michigan University. She has directed DownBeat Award-winning vocal jazz ensembles and taught at seven universities. As a clinician, she has conducted music festivals in twelve states and taught jazz vocals at the Jamey Aebersold Jazz Camps since 1998.

Ms. Barnes is an active member of professional organizations including ASCAP, SAG, AFTRA, and the Jazz Education Network (JEN). Her arrangements are published by Sound Music Publications and UNC Jazz Press.