James was also the artistic advisor to the Sydney Symphony’s “Kaleidoscope”
series, which has included performances by Chick Corea, Dianne Reeves, Gary
Burton and Kristjan Jarvi.
James spends much time in education, doing master classes and workshops all
over the world and presenting the James Morrison Jazz Scholarship at
Generations in Jazz.
When not writing film scores, composing or being patron of several youth
orchestras, James relaxes in some fairly unconventional ways for a musician –
flying his private plane or driving in a rally championship. His love of cars
is well known, as he was a host on the TV program Top Gear Australia.
James has been recognized for his service to the arts in Australia by being
awarded a medal of The Order of Australia by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,
with particular mention of his contribution to music education. He is a Doctor
of the University at Queensland Conservatorium of Music and has received a
Doctor of Music from the Edith Cowan University Western Australia. He is also
an Adjunct Professor at the University of South Australia and Vice-Chancellor’s
Professorial Fellow.
The latest chapter in his diverse career sees James in Mount Gambier, South
Australia, establishing the James Morrison Academy of Music, an innovative
school dedicated to teaching jazz and offering an Associate Degree in Music.
This exciting initiative involves educators from all over the world,
transforming young musicians’ lives with inspiration and a love of jazz.
With interests so broad and a career so filled with highlights it seems that
James Morrison must have done just about everything he could want to do – but
not so…
When asked, “What is there left to do?” James’ reply is typically “This is just
the warm up!”