
About Justin James
Musician, Composer, Mentor ... AND (dna) ... An Ordinary Human!
Early Life & Musical Foundations
Born in Adelaide and raised in Perth, Justin grew up surrounded by music thanks to his mother, a concert pianist who toured regional Western Australia. He entered the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts at only fourteen—an unusually early start that set the tone for his lifelong connection to classical music. Years later, he spent time in Los Angeles, expanding his creative practice through performance, composition and studio work.
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Musician & Composer
Justin is a classical pianist, performer, contemporary songwriter and composer working across a wide spectrum of genres. His musical interests sit at the intersection of tradition and innovation, shaped by both formal study and real-world experience. He has released three classical piano albums featuring favourites by Chopin, Debussy, Scriabin and Rachmaninoff, and continues to record major repertoire, including the full Rachmaninoff sonatas and concertos.
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Influences & Mentorship
His mentors include Pauline Belviso and Richard Gill—two highly respected musicians and educators whose influence continues to shape his work. Justin has also worked extensively in radio and multimedia as an ACRA-winning presenter, audio engineer, voice-over artist and imaging producer. These experiences, combined with years performing jazz, contemporary piano and collaborative projects, contribute to his distinctive musical voice.
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Current Work
Currently, Justin is focused on composing, arranging and producing original works for piano and various ensembles. His catalogue includes theme-and-variations sets, nocturnes, etudes, chamber works, a piano concerto and commissioned pieces for a range of performers. His arrangements draw from jazz, pop, rock, film music and the wider musical world, with a style that balances craft, creativity and playfulness.
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Teaching & Mentoring
He is also an active educator. Through one-to-one mentoring, Justin helps musicians build long-term, sustainable skills - embracing error, valuing boredom and learning in ways that support genuine musicianship rather than performance pressure. His teaching is grounded, thoughtful and shaped by a deep commitment to music as a human art form
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Work With Justin
If you’re interested in lessons, composition studies, commissions, exam mentoring or music production guidance, Justin welcomes enquiries and collaboration.

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