James Ford III is a native of Georgia. Since moving to Los Angeles in 2003, he has established an impressive reputation as an accomplished all-around trumpet player. Dr. Ford’s dexterity and warm sound has allowed him to cross many musical boundaries. He performs in diverse musical settings including big band, small groups, orchestral, chamber, pop, and early music ensembles. Ford continues to experiment and broaden his musical palette. He is a member of the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, the Benjamin Wright Orchestra, and John Beasley’s MONKestra. Ford has played in venues in Europe, Asia, South America, South Africa, Canada, and throughout the U.S.

D.M.A., University of North Texas; MM, University of North Texas; B.M., Valdosta State University.