James began playing the trombone at the age of 11 and was taught by Philip Garlick. James soon became involved in many of the local community music groups and brass bands. His first band was Hinchcliffe Mill Brass Band. Later, he then moved on to the Skelmanthorpe Band, Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band, Tredegar Band and at the age of 18 was appointed as Solo Trombone at the Brighouse & Rastrick Brass Band. whilst at Brighouse & Rastrick he also played with the Cory Band, Grimethorpe Colliery, Fairey Band Black Dyke and Fodens.

In 2000 James started at the Royal Northern College of Music where he was fortunate enough to be taught by some of the best trombone players in the world. In 2001, although still at the RNCM, he started his professional freelance trombone playing career. James' first professional 'gig' was with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra. From there, James was then busy working with the Halle Orchestra, Opera North, Manchester Camerata, BBC Philharmonic, Northern Ballet, Gubbay Orchestra and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

In 2004 he was appointed as Trombone Tutor at the Junior Royal Northern College of Music. This is a post that he really enjoyed and it gave him the opportunity to teach some of the best trombone players of their age. James has been very fortunate with the work received from the orchestras and it enabled him to travel the world whilst doing a job he loved.

In 2014 the James took on the role of Musical Director at the Boarshurst Silver Band. At the time Boarshurst were 3rd Section. In 4 years the band progressed from 3rd Section to the Championship Section and qualified for the National Finals 4 out of the 5 years he was MD. He also took the band to Butlins where they were crowned 1st Section Champions and gained the qualification place on offer at Bolsover Entertainment contest for entry to the Spring Festival.

James continues to work as a freelance musician with many orchestras across the North West

“I am really pleased to be working with the Uppermill Band. I have been really impressed with their work rate and very much look forward to being part of the team.”