James began playing the Tenor Horn with the Lowestoft Town Band at the age of 8.  He then progressed to Principle Cornet of Gunton Hall Silver Band and then Conductor of Waveney Valley Brass.  He was a member of Matthews Norfolk Brass for a short time until joining the Cawston Band as Musical Director.  James had a number of successful years with them moving from 4th Section to 2nd Section nationally.  James then moved away from brass bands to concentrate on his teaching career until moving to Mildenhall and a position of Head of Music at Manor Community College, Cambridge.

James joined Waterbeach Brass in April 2003 where on his first area competition, took 1st place.  He is looking forward to a long and successful partnership with the band.  James has brought to the Band an enthusiasm and sense of fun which has attracted new players and improved its performance.