LINER & Program NOTES WRITING
James is a frequent writer of liner notes and program notes for a variety of recordings and concert series.
Some people think of liner notes for recordings as a thing of the past but I see them as an essential element for certain kinds of projects. I strive to write notes that have a deep understanding of the music and the intent of the artist(s) behind the music, and my perspective as a fellow musician, scholar/researcher/educator, and record label owner, enables me to create notes that are both descriptive for listeners and helpful to the project’s success in relationship to the press. There is no genre I’m not interested in writing about and I’m happy to work with labels or individual artists on projects large or small, physical or digital. I’m also interested and experienced in writing program notes for orchestras, chambers ensembles, choirs, etc., that are in need of notes for new music or a distinct take on classical repertoire. Please take a look at samples of my liner and program note writing below and be in touch about your project. I’d be delighted to work with you.
Paula Bogg’s Band 2026 release, Sumatra. Click on image to read notes, which accompanied the CD and vinyl products.
Program notes for Peter Kenagy’s Stuart Little Suite for Piano, performed by Carmen Staaf
James was wrote program notes for Philharmonia Northwest for 4 seasons and took innovative and personal approaches to writing about classical music. Click on the image to read all of James’ notes for this wonderful Seattle-based orchestra.
Tim Daisy and Fred Lonberg-Holm, 2023 on Relay Records. Read a great review and shout out for James’ notes at Dusted Magazine.
Keefe Jackson and Jason Adasiewicz: Rows and Rows, on Delmark Records. Click on the image to read James’ liner notes to this great document of 2 of Chicago’s best improvisers.
Chicago drummer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Erik Sowa’s debut record: Cedar Lake Recordings Volume 1. Listen and read James’ liner notes at Erik’s Bandcamp Site.
Seattle pianist Marina Albero’s 2019 album “A Life Soundtrack #2: Agua”, which was awarded album of the year by Earshot Jazz. Click on the image to read James’ liner notes and visit Marina’s Bandcamp site to purchase the record.