James West has been a member of the music faculty at Milligan University since 2017, where he teaches applied guitar and music theory, in addition to directing the Guitar Ensemble. Professor West holds a Master of Music in Classical Guitar Performance from Appalachian State University. He received a Bachelor of Music degree in Classical Guitar from East Tennessee State University. He is currently a D.M.A. candidate at the University of South Carolina.
In addition to teaching at Milligan, Professor West teaches locally at Blair Academy of the Arts as well as East Tennessee States University. As an accomplished jazz and classical musician, he has performed throughout the country including with his own compositions. He also uses music as an expression of his faith and serves in music ministry at First Christian Church in Johnson City.