James Alvarez

Trumpet Player, Composer, and Music Educator

James Alvarez is a versatile musician, composer, and trumpet specialist based in Southern California, known for his expressive performances and commitment to excellence. As a soloist and ensemble performer, James brings passion and clarity to every musical setting, from symphonic stages to intimate chamber venues.

He holds principal trumpet positions with both the LLS Orchestra and Millennial Choirs and Orchestras, and serves as principal cornet for the Golden State British Brass Band. James is also the resident composer for the LLS Orchestra, contributing original works and orchestrations to its ongoing concert repertoire.

James made his compositional debut with his Symphony in C, which premiered at the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall. He holds a Master’s degree in Classical Trumpet Performance from the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music, and currently serves as the music director for the theatre program at Patriot High School.

His performance credits include collaborations with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, solo concertos by Alexander Arutunian and Alexandra Pakhmutova, and extensive tours across the United States and internationally. James also guest conducted a full orchestra in Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9.

In addition to his orchestral and solo work, James is an accomplished pit musician for musical theater productions and has appeared in television projects such as The Goldbergs and Lethal Weapon. His studio work includes appearances alongside artists such as Will Ferrell, James Corden, and Mark Hamill, with recording credits at Capitol Records and Sony Studios.

As an educator, James has coached brass sections for community, high school, and college ensembles. He has served as interim music director for both choir and band at the middle school level, and as interim choir director at the high school level, offering students a well-rounded, deeply committed approach to music education.

Through performance, composition, and education, James Alvarez brings a refined and wholehearted voice to every musical endeavor.