Johnny Salinas

Dr. Johnny Salinas serves as Assistant Professor of Saxophone at the Oklahoma State University Greenwood School of Music in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Since joining the GSM faculty in Fall 2019, Dr. Salinas has been dedicated to fostering the musical growth of his students through a comprehensive curriculum encompassing applied saxophone, chamber music, introductory music studies, saxophone literature and pedagogy, and single reed techniques.

One of his notable achievements includes successfully hosting the 2024 North American Saxophone Alliance (NASA) Biennial Conference at OSU, which garnered international acclaim as one of the premier events in the saxophone world.

Through his guidance, students under Dr. Salinas's mentorship have achieved significant accomplishments, ranging from winning prizes at competitions such as the National MTNA Chamber Music Competition to earning recognition at international events like the Charleston International Music Competition, the North International Music Competition, and the Medici International Music Competition. His most recent students have secured teaching jobs throughout Oklahoma and Texas.

In addition to his teaching commitments, Dr. Salinas is an accomplished performer with a diverse range of experiences, having graced stages in North America, Europe, and Asia. His collaborations with esteemed ensembles and solo performances at renowned venues have earned him recognition within the music community.

As a founding member of the acclaimed Amethyst Saxophone Quartet, Dr. Salinas has contributed to the enrichment of saxophone chamber music. Furthermore, he actively engages in collaborative endeavors, participating in ensembles such as the OSU Faculty Woodwind Quintet Bluestem Blaze and Composite Brass, a trumpet and saxophone duo dedicated to commissioning new works for the genre.

Dr. Salinas's journey in music began with his doctoral studies at Northwestern University, where he had the privilege of studying under the world-renowned saxophonist, Frederick L. Hemke. Today, he proudly represents Légère Reeds and Yamaha Saxophones as an endorsing artist, demonstrating his commitment to quality and innovation in saxophone performance.

Through his passion for teaching, performing, and collaborative endeavors, Dr. Salinas continues to make meaningful contributions to the saxophone community and inspire the next generation of musicians and educators.