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Lessons

Either at his central Delaware studio or online (via Google Hangouts, Skype or Facebook Messenger), James is available for private instruction in a number of focuses, mostly focusing on music theory, ear training, and jazz theory and improvisation. With a degree in composition from Duquesne University, over 20 years of experience as a trumpet, piano and organ player, and a decade as a composer and arranger, James is now accepting students.

Using the popular music of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s — music that's already familiar to you, James has developed an approach to theory and ear training that is both comfortable and engaging. You will gain fluency in the language of music through guided chordal analysis and transcription of songs that you already know and can internalize, making the process that much more comfortable. He is presently accepting students in the following areas:

• jazz piano/organ
• jazz harmony, theory and improvisation
• composition, arranging, orchestration and songwriting
• music theory and ear training
• jazz ensemble coaching/conducting/clinician
• instruction in Finale, GarageBand and Logic

• trumpet
• trombone
• vocal coaching

Availability is limited.

Rates start at $30 for half-hour lessons and $45 for full-hour lessons, with discounts available for multiple-lesson blocks.

Use the PayPal button below to reserve your first lesson (you will be directed to the PayPal site for checkout):

Transcription, Engraving, Part Prep and Editing

Need horn section parts taken down straight from the record for an upcoming gig? Want lead sheets of your original songs? James has you covered. If you've already notated the music by hand, James is available for engraving in Finale, or — if you've already got the bulk of the engraving done as well — for score and part editing to give your work the 'finished appearance' of published manuscript.

Custom Arrangements

If your ensemble needs custom arrangements, consider making James your go-to writer. A skilled orchestrator, James can provide arrangements for big band, marching band, women's choir or any instrumentation imaginable. He is currently available for custom arrangements on a limited basis.

Recording

James is fully equipped to add keyboards, background vocals, or even a fully-arranged horn section to your upcoming project from his Delaware studio. He can either 'fly in' raw audio files for your engineer to incorporate during post-production, or he can handle post-production duties himself, delivering you a polished finished product.

For more information on any of the above services, contact James.

Testimonials

"James is an essential part of our band program. His superb arrangements can make our 70-member band sound like 150. He has an amazing turnaround time and attends rehearsals to make sure the arrangements work. How many writers show up to practice, pick up a sousaphone and teach the low brass a bass line?"

— Chris Burkhart, band director, Cape Henlopen (Del.) High School

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