Information About James - Leeds teacher

Personal Description:

James is an experienced trumpeter, conductor and arranger based in Leeds. Beginning his career in Manchester as Principal Trumpet of the Halle Youth Orchestra, James has had a rigorous training in all musical genres, including jazz, classical and popular music; playing with renowned ensembles such as Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra, Harrogate Brass Band, Besses Boys Brass Band & Leeds Haydn Players. James has also enjoyed playing in stage shows across Leeds and Manchester, including Les Miserables, Chicago, and The Wizard of Oz. James has recently graduated with a First Class Bachelors of Music from the University of Leeds, where he received tutelage from Opera North's Mike Woodhead and renowned jazz trumpeter, Mark Chandler. In 2019, James had the privilege of studying at the University of North Texas, where he studied with jazz trumpeter, Philip Dizack, member of the Canadian Brass, Caleb Hudson, and Dr. Aaron Jensen. James also achieved the position of Prinicpal Cornet of the University of North Texas Brass Band, conducted by the famous David Childs.

During his time at University, James was an active member of the music society, as Prinicpal Trumpet of the Symphony Orchestra, conductor of the Brass Band, and Sinfonia. He was also a staple member of the stage musical band, playing in shows such as In the Heights, and Into the Woods.

James is currently based in Leeds where he plays with his own band, Pocket Fluff, as well as the York Railway Institute Brass Band, whilst also lending his talents to many other musical outfits. He also helps as a member of Social Staff at the National Children's Orchestra of Great Britain; therefore has great experience with younger musicians.

Tutoring Experience:

James currently teaches privately, supplementing this with 1-1 tuition work at the Yorkshire Music School, Northallerton Music Service and OneEducation Music in Manchester.

James has studied a wide variety of solo repertoire across all genres and styles, and can tailor your lessons to any interests or abilities; including beginners. James offers a passionate and patient teaching style, stemming from his own love of music, that will instill curiosity to students and open new doors to ideas. He also believes it's never too late to start!

Tutoring Approach:

A typical trumpet lesson with James will start with a chat outlining your musical interests so he can tailor his lessons to what you want. Following this will be a thorough warm up giving the opportunity to dive into the technicalities of the instrument. To be a trumpet player, one must be a technician as well as a musician. This will be followed by looking at a varied repertoire that suits your interests. This will often include listening recommendations of different excellent trumpeters and working to imitate these sounds.

James is a very flexible and patient teacher in all aspects.