Teacher Profile: James Alers
About James Alers
James Alers has been praised as an "extraordinary violinist" by the Worcester Telegram and Gazette. With over 23 years of experience playing violin, he has surmounted humble beginnings and has made a big impact on the musical scene in Central Massachusetts. James received his schooling at the Longy School of Music where he studied with Grammy Nominated Violinist Jesse Mills. In James' younger years, he received a full scholarship to New England Preparatory School where he studied with Rictor Noren, a former Boston Symphony Violinist. Before schooling, he received the prestigious Gerald D. Mack Scholarship from Music Worcester that would go towards his college tuition. James has performed with various orchestras including Symphony Pro Musica, Keene Chamber Orchestra, Boston Civic Orchestra, Worcester Chamber Music Society, and Massachusetts Symphony. James has performed in various venues such as Symphony Hall in Boston, Mechanics Hall in Worcester, and The Boston Opera House.
James has over 10 years of teaching violin, he began by starting his own studio of private students. In addition, he also taught with Worcester Chamber Music Society in their program "Neighborhood Strings" which would offer lessons, and performance opportunities to inner city schools in Worcester, MA. James has taught at "El Sistema" Somerville for a year and also helped direct the summer program. For three years, James directed The Lexington Camerata, a group of ambitious musicians looking to improve and learn about the inner workings of chamber music. James takes pride in making sure his students are comfortable with themselves and what they are capable of. Motivation is key and he incorporates the students' musical interests in his lessons. James' also has experience teaching children with disabilities and/or on the autism spectrum. He is very dedicated to his students and keeps his lessons live and full of energy. During Covid 2019, the musical industry took a big hit which affected musicians everywhere. James decided to start anew and made a big move to Dallas, TX.