Jim was born in Riverside, CA and grew up in Kenosha, WI. He received a Music Education degree from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee and a Masters of Music - Applied Trumpet degree from Northwestern University - Evanston where he studied with Vincent Cichowicz.
Jim's music career was highlighted by a 28 year stint with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra playing utility trumpet. Other playing included the Florentine Opera Company, American and Milwaukee Ballet Companies, Melody Top Summer Stock Theater, Skylight Comic Opera and backing such performers as The Moody Blues, Doc Severenson, Aretha Franklin, Glen Campbell, The King's Singers, etc.
He also is a founding member of the Newberry Brass Quintet and played principal trumpet with the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra.
Jim currently performs as a free-lance player and arranger in the Milwaukee area. He resides in Nashotah, WI with his wife Mary and Golden Retriever Chewy.
Jim and Mary are the proud parents of three children - Jen, Ben and Al and are PaPa and NaNa to two wonderful grandkids - CW and Soshi.
