James Grass

James Grass is a student at the University of Hartford's Hartt School of music and is currently working towards his Master of music in saxophone performance, studying under Professor Carrie Koffman.  He earned his Bachelors in music performance at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, studying with Dr. Steve Stusek, and Dr. Robert Young.  James is proud to represent and continue the Rousseau and Sinta lineage through his professors.  Originally from Burke, Virginia, he studied under SGM Matthew Carmichael throughout high school. 

During James' studies he has gained experience performing with wind bands touring the country, and performing at prestigious events such as the CBDNA national conference, performing as a soloist, as well as being a founding member of UNCG's Cardinal saxophone quartet which has performed at events such as the Navy Band's International saxophone symposium and NASA Regional conference.

James's repertoire spans the saxophone's core canon... Albright, Creston, Ibert, Desenclos, alongside cross-disciplinary chamber works including Shostakovich's String Quartet No. 8 and Amy Beach's Romance.

Alongside his studies, James is developing a private lesson studio, aiming to teach saxophonists of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. James plans to audition for performing positions with the nation's premier military bands upon completing his MM at the Hartt School.