Dynamic and experienced, James Scott is a conductor with extensive training in both choral and instrumental music. He received his Bachelors in Music Education (Saxophone) from the University of the Pacific. During this time, he discovered his love for choir. James studied choral conducting privately for 5 years with choral director Dr. Yejee Choi. He was the Assistant Student Conductor and TA for the Pacific choral program. He also served as the Principal Conductor for the Pacific Brass Society, Music Director of the PMA Sinfonia Men’s Chorus, and guest-conducted the Pacific Repertory Orchestra. James is pursuing his Masters Degree in Choral Conducting at UCLA under Dr. James K. Bass. His rehearsal techniques are deeply rooted in his background in music education. As an undergraduate, he conducted high school and middle school choirs, middle and elementary school bands, and even taught a high school guitar class. These experiences made him a strong communicator and leader. He believes choral music is the most accessible (both financially and aesthetically) form of ensemble-based music, and that it inspires humans to enact change at both the personal and societal levels. For these reasons, he has dedicated his life to the perfection of the choral art. James works tirelessly to create music that is detailed, nuanced and profound, while helping his musicians perform as freely as possible. He also supports culturally authentic and historically informed performances. In his spare time, James loves to read books, collect records and meditate.