James is a graduate of the Royal College of Music with a Masters Degree in conducting, having studied with Paul Spicer. As well as his professional music engagements James is a music teacher and from May 2006 will be Director of Music at St. Paul's Cathedral School, London.

James' music education began as a chorister at Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford. From an early age he studied French horn, piano and organ. James held a choral scholarship at St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh whilst reading music at Edinburgh University. He was appointed conductor of Edinburgh University Chamber Choir and later founded and conducted Edinburgh Symphony Baroque and Floreat Sonus, establishing regular series of concerts in Edinburgh and Scotland.

James is on the Finzi Friends committee promoting the music of Gerald Finzi and other British composers. As a performer and Conductor with an academic background, he brings to Floreat Sonus an extensive and particular understanding enjoyed by contemporary audiences.