Album Notes

James Brown is one of Canada’s talented and versatile Composer/Guitarists. His playing draws influence from both Classical and Jazz traditions and has been praised for his fluent technique, lyrical tone, and daring melodic invention.

James has studied with a number of international artists including John Abercrombie, Mick Goodrick, Leo Brouwer, and Norbert Kraft. He has appeared with many of Canada’s leading Artists including Don Thompson, Mike Murley, Dave Restivo, and Rob Piltch.
He has also performed with The Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Eric Idol , Toronto Philharmonia, Sound Streams Canada (with The Hilliard Ensemble), and CanStage.


1998 marked James’ debut C.D. “First Dance” on the XXI label (ATMA). This recording features Ernie Tollar, Andrew Downing, John Obercian, and highlights James as a composer, improviser, and leader.


“James Brown treats listeners to his abundant skills, showcasing a classically trained, Perspective strong on melody, fluent lines Accompaniment and ideas. You can also check out his stylish stuff, which might remind you of Jim Hall, on the CD First Dance…a bold new voice has joined the T.O. Guitar ranks.”
Geoff Chapman, The Toronto Star


“…James Brown is exploratory, inventive with a natural fluency and a ton of endless, intriguing ideas.”
Performing Arts magazine


James’ compositions range from solo guitar to symphony orchestra and have been performed and recorded by numerous ensembles and soloists including: Orchestra Toronto, Trinity Chamber Ensemble, Jeffrey McFadden, and The Montreal Guitar Trio. He is also a CMC Associate Composer.


His latest disk “The Home Fields” (New Guitar Productions) features Ernie Tollar and Jim Vivian. This recording offers an intimate, all acoustic approach to contemporary jazz.


..“Excellent, a classy 16-tune collection of originals....that’s full of smartly ’executed ideas” The Toronto Star


“This is a really good disk…plenty of ear treats here” WholeNote Magazine

James is currently on Faculty at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto where he teaches guitar and Jazz improvisation. He is also co-founder of The New Guitar; a concert series dedicated to showcasing talents of Canadian Composers and Guitarists.

His third CD "Sevendaze" features Don Thompson, Quinsin Nachoff, Jim Vivian, and Anthony Michelli.