James first picked up a guitar at 10 and has been playing and teaching the instrument ever since. Graduating from UHCL in 1996, with a B,B.A in management and he earned an Associates of Arts in guitar performance from San Jacinto Junior College in 1998. James was a founding member of Guitar Houston music society serving on the board of directors for the first three years as it developed into an international guitar organization.

From 1999 through 2007, James taught class guitar at Bellaire High School Art and Performance department sending many students to receive 1 ratings at UIL solo and ensemble events.

James teaches most music styles from the Classical to the Contemporary. Genres include : Blues, Country and Western, Folk, Latin, Rock and Jazz styles. Notable music influences are the works of Augustin Barrios and D’jango Rienhardt.

James’ goal in education at Vivaldi Music Academy is to provide quality music lessons to students, while creating a guitar ensemble that builds teamwork skills and organizes performances that can enrich the individual and the community.

Currently, James is a local musician and teacher performing in Houston and surrounding areas. When not teaching music, James is a collector of vintage media and recordings.