Work And Music That Heals
From creating songs at the piano as a child to inspiring audiences of all types James has looked for and found the healing qualities of music. A student of saxophone, flute, clarinet and composition his academic experience includes the University of Arizona school of music (1984–1987) and the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire (2006–2010) where he received his bachelor of Music Composition degree.
Since 1997 James has been making his living as a performer, composer, educator and recording artist. Originally a freelance performer and private lesson instructor in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area more recently he has played across the country both in touring theater pit bands as well as in the highly successful "one man" show he created in 2003 focused on bringing music to senior citizen communities. Since 2003 that work has been engaged over 5,000 times in over 2,000 elder community settings across the U.S. from coast to coast. His 2001 cd release “A Christmas Prayer” was awarded the 2002 Minnesota Music Award for best classical ensemble recording and has sold 5,400 copies to date.
As the seasons of life pass and grant their lessons James has been evolving his work life. Combining years of musical experiences with scientific research on our brains and mind / body connection James started offering "The Science of Contentment" wellness workshop in senior settings starting in the summer of 2018. Created out of personal experience, the workshop has been presented 15 times and includes music, lecture and experiential components. James also plays music for yoga classes and has been a guest performer in many Kirtan gatherings. James is scheduled to complete 200 HR yoga teacher training in 2019, is excited to add teaching yoga to his work and has been certified by the Heartmath institute as an "Add Heart" facilitator.
James is an avid outdoors person, swims everyday at the YMCA and enjoys a good cup of coffee.