Born: May 22, 1979 Primary Instrument: Trumpet
James Davis, a Chicago trumpeter and music maker, is comfortable in and always exploring a wide array of musical environments. As an improvisor and composer, Davis is involved in a diverse blend of musical communities in the Chicago area. James’ diverse performance experience includes performances with the The Glenn Miller Orchestra, the UNT One O’Clock Lab Band, Chuchito Valdes, Rob Parton’s Jazz Tech Big Band, Alan Gresik’s Swing Shift Orchestra, the Tomorrow Music Orchestra, the Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra, the Texas Wind Symphony, Camerata Winds, and other jazz, classical and Latin music groups.
He is currently on faculty at Triton College in River Grove, IL as director of the Jazz Band. James holds a Master of Music degree in Trumpet Performance from the University of North Texas and a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. In 2005 James was a touring member of the Glenn Miller Orchestra, in which he was frequently featured as a soloist. James also toured as a member of the University of North Texas One O’clock Lab Band and can be heard as a soloist on Lab 2004. In the summer of 2004 James was a finalist in the International Trumpet Guild Jazz Improvisation Competition, and in 2007 he was a finalist in the Carmine Caruso International Jazz Trumpet Competition.
Last Updated: November 22, 2007
”The two Davises’ horns move in such an uncanny synchronicity as to give the music an extra effect of
ultra-sensitivity.”
”...enjoyable music filled with dreamy atmospheric, lovely tones and stimulating solo forays played by
an ensemble of young musicians who are making a name for themselves in the exciting Chicago jazz
arena”
”...another fine testament to the talent and creativity of the players involved and the vitality of the
young Chicago scene.” - Brad Walseth, JazzChicago.net
”In addition is his palatable approach and well-filleted rhythm contained within his music, Davis
connotes a certain 'world music with a philosophy,' plus his improvisational directness is well placed to
bring out the hopefully cogent ties to his (I'm sure) well-suited audiences. This is a winner.” - George
Carroll, The Musicians' Ombudsman
