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Biography

Wendell is well known for innovative teaching strategies and for creating original performance games that foster literacy, creativity, expression and collaboration. It is a privilege for him to share as a co-learner with his students the achievement of artistic excellence.

Wendell’s  performance and pedagogical contributions as a Concert Saxophonist and mentor of emergent musicians are well known. His curricula have become models referenced by many educators. As a soloist and ensemble performer, he has performed extensively on radio and television and in venues ranging from major concert halls to outdoor music festivals and concert series in rural communities.

A student of the distinguished performer and teacher, Dr. Frederick L. Hemke, Wendell is currently Assistant Teaching Professor of Saxophone and Director of the UVic Vocal Jazz Mainstream and Improvisational Ensemble. He is an active supporter of his colleagues’ performance and teaching projects and works with student focus groups to develop engaging curriculum and inspiring learning opportunities.

Wendell continues to compose and arrange choral and instrumental compositions commissioned by professionals, educators and students. His choral and instrumental works—traditional Gaelic songs, music theatre pieces, original settings of sacred texts, arrangements of traditional folk songs, and vocal jazz combo and choral pieces—have been performed regionally and internationally. Under his direction, Guth Nan Eilean (Victoria Gaelic Choir) received the Commonwealth Award.

For a fuller account of Wendell’s students’ achievements, his commitment to teaching, learning and performance, and concert information, the accomplishments of his students and the joy he shares with his students as they together explore and celebrate the musical arts, please visit the following websites: