Jim completed undergraduate and graduate studies in Music Education at Western Connecticut State University and Central Connecticut State University. He has taught music since 1966 and is a retired music teacher from Chase Collegiate School in Waterbury.He is a member of Phi Beta Mu, the International Bandmaster’s Fraternity, and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 186.
He currently performs professionally throughout the Tri-State area as a soloist in various venues and orchestras, including the Harold Zinno Jazz Orchestra and Quintet. He has also performed with the Nelson Riddle Orchestra and Las Vegas-based Steve Lippia. He is a member of the Bristol Choral Society, and he performs as a flutist and pianist with the Bristol Brass and Wind Ensemble. Jim previously served as the conductor of the Stage, Concert, and Marching Band elements of the 102d Army Band, and played piano, flute, and percussion. As a member of the 102d, he also had the privilege of performing for President Ronald Reagan and Queen Elizabeth II. He retired with more than twenty years of service.