James is an accomplished cellist and pedagogue, currently a Doctor of Music candidate in cello performance with a minor in music education at Indiana University with Professor Emilio Colon. Most recently, he served as the assistant principal cellist of Richmond Symphony Orchestra in Indiana. Festival appearances include Philadelphia International Music Festival, Jacobs Summer of Music, and Prague Summer Nights, serving as principal cellist. In addition, James holds performance diploma at Indiana University and Master of Music at Georgia State University. He co-founded the Elysium String Quartet in Atlanta, GA.
James taught frequently during his musical studies, ranging from private studio settings to larger group settings. He resides in Boulder, CO with his partner and is working on writing his doctoral dissertation.