James Pennington

James Pennington is a fundraiser, grant writer, and dedicated arts advocate with a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector. His previous professional experience includes Harmony Foundation International, the Barbershop Harmony Society, and Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis, Maryland. Prior to his career in the arts, James studied journalism at the University of Kentucky and worked as a sports writer, covering college basketball for several local and national publications.

James is a product of a lifelong performing arts and choral music education, and he remains active as a vocalist, coach, and arranger. He currently sings baritone in Secret Best Friends, a vocal quartet that blends influences from modern barbershop harmony and vocal jazz. The group placed 8th at the Barbershop Harmony Society international quartet competition in July 2024. James is also a Barbershop Harmony Society certified performance judge, traveling to competitions across the world to adjudicate, educate and inspire singers and ensembles to bring the truest version of themselves to audiences. He lives in Annapolis with his wife, daughter and two cats.