James decided to take up the Electone at the age of 12 after visiting Hereford Yamaha Music School for a 'trial session' during which he quickly realised the versatility and potential of the Yamaha Electone.  He had little or no experience with 'keyboard instruments' and so enrolled on the 'Electone Mate Course' starting with Stage 1 and after several years of working his way through the various stages, decided that he would like to perform his own repertoire at various events.  To begin with, he used a Yamaha EL-28 Electone but later upgraded to an EL-90. Each year, James participated both as a solo artiste and as a group (ensemble player) in the Yamaha Music Schools' 'Local heat' competition, where each year a few lucky finalists from all around the UK get to perform their music in the 'National Showcase' held at Birmingham Symphony Hall. Shortly before finishing the advanced stage of the course, he participated again in the local heat for Hereford Yamaha Music School in an ensemble of 'Thriller' (Michael Jackson).  The ensemble (arranged by Nick Fisher), was chosen by the judge (Janet Dowsett) to participate in the National Showcase in Birmingham where it later scooped first place, winning Hereford YMS the prestigious title 'Yamaha Music School of the Year 2000'.

Over the next few years James' playing became much more advanced after individual lessons and he now plays the new Yamaha Electone ELS-01C (Stagea), providing music for local events such as Pantomimes.  He is also a joint founder of the 'Electone Society UK' which aims to promote musical creativity with Electronic Organs and bring together Electone and other Electronic Organ players from all around the UK to share in the enjoyment of these wonderful instruments.

James promises to bring you an evening of entertainment you would be mad to miss!!!