Biography
Dr. Wade Dillingham is a musician and educator with a passion for the saxophone and clarinet. He currently serves as Assistant Professor of Single Reeds and Director of Jazz Activities at Louisiana Tech University, where he strives to help students refine their craft while continuing to grow as a performer himself. His journey as a musician has been shaped by both his academic training and his experience performing across a variety of musical genres.
​
Dr. Dillingham completed his Doctor of Musical Arts degree at Louisiana State University (LSU) in May 2023. Prior to that, he earned a Master of Music from the University of New Mexico and a Bachelor of Instrumental Music from the University of North Alabama. These academic experiences provided him with a solid foundation in music and prepared him for work as a professional musician.
As an active performer and bandleader, Dr. Dillingham has had the opportunity to work with several orchestras and ensembles in the region, including the Monroe Symphony, the Marshall Symphony, and the South Arkansas Symphony. These performances have allowed him to explore a wide range of musical styles, from classical to contemporary to jazz. Whether performing as a soloist or collaborating with others, his performances are always driven by a desire to contribute to the music and share the beauty of the art form with others.
In 2021, Dr. Dillingham won the Louisiana MTNA (Music Teachers National Association) Solo Artist Competition in the Woodwind Division. He was also honored with the Lagniappe Prize for excellence in jury performance for the 2021–2022 school year at LSU, a testament to his dedication and the support of his teachers and mentors along the way.
Dr. Dillingham has had the privilege of performing at several conferences and festivals, such as the John Donald Robb Composers Symposium, New Music on the Bayou, and regional and national conferences of the North American Saxophone Alliance. He has also had the honor of serving as a guest artist at the Music from Music for Angel Fire Chamber Music Festival. These experiences have allowed him to collaborate with world-class musicians in inspiring and challenging chamber music setting. These events provided valuable opportunities to engage with other musicians, share new compositions, grow as an educator, and learn from many talented individuals in the field.
Teaching has always been an important part of Dr. Dillingham's professional life. As Assistant Professor of Single Reeds and Director of Jazz Activities at Louisiana Tech University, he is dedicated to guiding his instrumental students through their own musical journeys and directing the university's jazz ensembles. He takes pride in seeing his students grow both as musicians and individuals, and he is committed to creating a learning environment where they feel encouraged to explore their creative potential. Dr. Dillingham’s approach to teaching is grounded in the belief that musical excellence is not only achieved through meticulous study and attention to detail, but also requires emotional growth and dexterity in its pursuit.
Throughout his career, Dr. Dillingham has had the privilege of studying with a number of remarkable teachers who have shaped his understanding of music and performance. He has studied saxophone with Dr. Meghan Merciers, Dr. Ashley Kelly, Dr. Eric Lau, and Dr. Griffin Campbell, and has also worked with Dr. Meghan Merciers and Professor Keith Lemmons in his clarinet studies.
In addition to his role at Louisiana Tech University, Dr. Dillingham serves as a Resident Supervisor at the Tanglewood Music Center in Lenox, Massachusetts, a position he has held since 2022. This role has given him the opportunity to work closely with young professional musicians, providing support as they hone their skills in a world-class environment. His time at Tanglewood has reinforced his belief in the importance of mentorship and community in the development of artists.
Dr. Dillingham’s work, both as a performer and educator, is fueled by a deep love of music and a desire to contribute to the ongoing conversation in the world of the arts. Whether performing on stage, teaching in the classroom, or mentoring students, he is dedicated to fostering a sense of connection through music and inspiring others to pursue their own musical passions.
Through his academic study, musical performance, and teaching work, Dr. Dillingham continues to strive for growth and improvement, always with the goal of inspiring others and contributing positively to the musical community.
