Mike James is in demand as both a music educator and performer in La Crosse and its surrounding communities. Mike is a native to the Midwest but to jump-start his musical career, Mike moved to Phenix, AZ, in 1988 where he spent over three intense years studying with Berklee trained Pete Pancrazi in Arizona before relocating back to the La Crosse area. Since 1994, he has been teaching all styles of guitar and bass to students of all ages and levels.

In addition to private teaching, Mike has been an instructor at Winona State University since 2001 and St. Mary's University in Winona, MN since 2002. At both universities, he has taught guitar ensemble classes, guitar methods, jazz combo, jazz workshops and one on one lessons.

Mike also keeps very busy performing locally as a soloist or in duos, trios, quartets, etc. Mike is proficient in and enjoys all styles of guitar music but specializes in jazz. He has performed several times at the La Crosse Jazz Fest and also plays guitar and bass in a modern worship setting at Bethany Evangelical Free Church in La Crosse. Mike has also been a part of several local recording projects including the WSU Jazz Ensemble first CD called "Explorations".

Mike has never stopped studying music - he believes the moment you stop learning is the moment you stop growing.

Mike resides in La Crosse with his wife, Sharon, also a musician, and their son.

For more information please visit my personal website www.mikejames.us