James is a dedicated percussionist and drummer who is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Brigham Young University - Idaho. Despite his academic focus in engineering, James has made music a top priority throughout his studies, actively sharpening his percussion skills with a focus on drumset performance. Under the mentorship of Kevin Meyer, BYU-Idaho's Percussion Faculty, he has engaged in intensive coursework in percussion pedagogy and literature, treating his music education with the same commitment as that of a music major. This dedication is reflected in his extensive performance experience across a variety of ensembles, including Sound Alliance (BYU-Idaho’s premiere jazz band), RixStix Drumline, the Idaho Falls Symphony, and the BYU-Idaho Symphony Band, with whom he toured the southeastern United States. Since February 2023, James has shared his passion for music through private percussion instruction, developing tailored lesson plans to meet the specific needs and goals of his students. His teaching approach is informed by his diverse performance background, including his involvement in jazz, symphonic, marching, and pit orchestra settings. James strives to provide a well-rounded musical education, blending technical mastery with creative expression. His philosophy emphasizes building a strong foundation in percussion while inspiring students to explore their unique musical voices. Through his own commitment to continually advancing his musical abilities, James encourages his students to reach their full potential and pursue their passion for percussion with the same level of dedication.
