James, the assistant concertmaster of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, led 20 violinists in Miami University Symphony Orchestra (MUSO) in a two-hour sectional of Brahms’ 4th symphony.

As one of the youngest members of her orchestra, James also solos in orchestras all over the country and performs frequently in chamber ensembles. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from the Colburn Conservatory of Music.

Harvey Thurmer, Miami professor of music, participated in the rehearsal along with the students. He found that James’ closeness in age to the students inspired them to see the kind of energy and dedication being a performer requires.

Benjamin Ng, one of Thurmer’s new graduate students who has been at the university for only a month now, led as the concertmaster chair with James’ guidance, who has many years of experience. 

Thurmer invited James to guest lecture with MUSO’s violinists after finding out their piece for the October 20th concert was also one of James’ all-time favorites. 

“Not only was [James] a stellar example of how to approach work on this difficult piece, but she was a great encouragement, providing great solutions to a variety of technical and musical challenges,” Thurmer said. “This was one of the best opportunities that our students have had to get instruction, guidance, encouragement and personal attention from such a remarkable and generous performer.”