WREXHAM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

James Gourlay – Solo Tuba

James Gourlay was born in Scotland, where at the age of ten, he was “volunteered” to play in his school brass band. Being the tallest in class, he was serendipitously given the tuba, an instrument he loves and continues to promote all over the world.

After much success as solo champion, James entered the Royal College of Music, but left after a short time to become, at eighteen, the Principle Tuba of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Four years later, he took up the same position with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, with which he performed for ten years. He then performed for a further ten years with the Orchestra of the Züirch Opera.

As a soloist, he performs extensively. He has recorded five solo CD’s the latest, British Tuba Concertos, recorded for the Naxos label, with the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, has received international critical acclaim.

James Gourlay’s work within the Brass Band movement forms a vital component of his creative output. After early success with the Brass Band Bemeroberland, he became musical director of the Williams Fairey Band with which he won the English Masters and British Open Contests. James has also been a professional conductor of the Grimethorpe Colliery and the Brighthouse and Rastrick bands.

James Gourlay’s commitment to music education is a continuing passion. He is Head of Wind and Percussion at the Royal Northern College of music and is currently Deputy Principle and Music Director at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, Scotland’s International Conservatoire. He holds a Masters Degree from Leeds University, a fellowship of the Royal Northern College of Music, a fellowship of the London College of music and is the recipient of the Iles Medal, presented by the Worship Company of Musicians.

December 2007

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