Jim began to learn the cornet at the age of seven and quickly became involved with many local groups gaining a wide musical base. After a number of years he eventually changed to trumpet under the expert tuition of local tutor Sandra Callaghan and started pursuing his dream of making a living out of music.

At the age of sixteen Jim was awarded a place at the prestigious Chetham's School of Music in Manchester to study under David Chatterton. It was at Chetham's where he finally developed a love of Classical music and got the opportunity to work, study and socialise with some of the countries finest young talent.

Two years later Jim gained a place at the Royal Northern College of Musical where, over the next four years, he studied under John Miller and Murray Grieg. Also at the college Jim had the chance to study with Rhys Owens, John Dickinson and Patrick Addinall in classes, and performed in masterclasses with a number of world class artists, such as

• Hakan Hardenberger
• Michael Brydenfelt
• Canadian Brass
• Gomolan Brass
• Antoine Cure.

In his final year at the RNCM Jim became a founding member of Tempus Brass and continues today as one of its driving forces. As well as performing and rehearsing with the group he spends a lot of time arranging and even composing for them.

Since graduating two years ago with a BMus (hons) degree Jim has enjoyed a busy freelance career performing with the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Opera North Orchestra, Northern Chamber Orchestra and the National Festival Orchestra, as well as playing in many shows, brass bands and big bands. As a teacher Jim has been lucky to gain four hard working private pupils to whom he eagerly passes on the knowledge that he has acquired through the years.

In his spare time Jim is a big Real Ale fan and even brews his own beer, he also enjoys reading, discussing theology and helping out at his local church.