James Smith

Born in Norwich and playing from the age of 6, James has studied for his BMus (Hons) Degree at the Royal Northern College of Music, studying with Professor Stephen Savage PhD. He is now continuing his studies as an RNCM scholar for a Master’s degree in Performance. James has performed extensively at the RNCM and has given many solo and collaborative recitals around the UK. He has been involved in a wide range of chamber music ensembles, exciting orchestral projects dedicated to contemporary compositions, as well as working as an accompanist for many singers. He has also taken part in many international masterclasses and clinics with world class pianists including Sir Stephen Hough, Kathryn Stott, Roberto Plano and Jean-Efflam Bavouzet, as well as being awarded the Emmanuel Prize for solo performance for the 2024/25 season. He has been praised by audiences and professionals for his “natural lyrical charm and technical brawn.” Outside his work the RNCM, he has quickly developed an impressive reputation as a piano tutor, having performed exclusively as an ABRSM recording artist, producing several recordings which will be published worldwide as part of the 2026/27 piano exam syllabus. As he works towards his Masters degree at the RNCM under the tutelage of Sally-Ann MacLeod, he is looking forward to performing in more projects in the years to come both as a soloist and chamber musician.