James Whiting

James is currently a 2nd year student studying a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Vibraphone at the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University and the first to do so. Best known for his jazz performances behind the vibraphone, James is also known for his work in orchestral percussion as well as behind the drums in contemporary groups and shows.

James has recently returned from a tour of the USA where he was accepted to study with several contemporary jazz legends such as Dave Samuels, Joe Locke and Ed Saindon at institutions such as Manhattan School of Music, New School of New York and the Berklee College of Music. James has toured Australia and New Zealand performing in ensembles, as a soloist and providing workshops and masterclasses.

In 2006, whilst in Year 11, James won the Open Vibraphone section of the Australian Percussion Eisteddfod (Sydney). He was awarded with an ATCL with Distinction in Percussion performance from Trinity College London whilst studying Year 12 (2007). James had the privilege of sharing the stage with two of Australia’s greatest Jazz icons, James and John Morrison two years in a row during year 9 (2004) and 10 (2005). As well as being a competent soloist, James performed in over 10 musical shows whilst in high school, including the Australian debut of Jason Robert Brown’s Parade, which performed at QPAC. He was also invited to attend the Australian International Marimba Festival held in Canberra late last year with guest artists Kevin Bobo and Gordon Stout.

James currently runs his own jazz quartet “Ruminations” which performs a mixture of standards and originals either by band members or by friends including tunes written by Ed Saindon (Berklee College of Music, Boston) and Joe Locke (Manhattan School of Music, New York.) James also tutors percussion at Loreto College Coorparoo, and loves sharing his knowledge and experiences with others.

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