Faculty & Staff

James Sanders received a Master’s degree in Violin Performance from Yale University. His undergraduate degree is from DePauw University. His principal teachers include Sidney Harth, Albert Igolnikov, David Taylor, and Mark Zinger.

James is a member of the Chicago Sinfonietta, performing in the first violin section. He also performs with the Chicago Philharmonic, the Joffrey Ballet, the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and several productions with Broadway in Chicago.

He has explored the world of improvisation and is a regular presence in Chicago’s jazz community. He has performed internationally, including at major jazz festivals in Italy, Brussels, Brazil, Poland, and Chicago.

His album Evidencia: Original Music for Violin & Afro Latin Ensemble was voted the Best of 2022 by the Latin Jazz and Salsa Community.

James has also been active as a teacher and currently teaches and coordinates the Middle School String Program for the Arlington Heights, IL, School District 25.