James Hurt

Biography

Educator, composer, and multi-instrumentalist James Hurt imposes one of the most formidable talents on the global music scene. A native of Memphis Tennessee. the “Home of the Blues,” James received a scholarship to attend Tennessee State University in Nashville. There he would cultivate his pianistic skills by locking himself in the practice rooms, forcing his fingers to comply with his ideas. He also got an education in classical composers and composition. His many influences included the greats of Blues and Jazz, many of whom he had the chance to meet and see perform. His mother was an active member of The Memphis Blues society and he credits her with exposing him to an incredible array of musicians and culture.

After college he moved to New York City, James performed at the piano in several group configurations and at late night jam sessions seven nights a week. At Smalls in the West Village and everywhere else there was a session. His compatriots were a who’s who of New York’s uptown and downtown jazz scenes. He was soon discovered and signed with Blue Note records in 1997.

He has played as a sideman in an incredible array of groups and recordings from all over the world.

James has composed music for various ad campaigns for HBO, Ford Motors, and New York City’s “This Place Matters 2008 Awards.” He has also lent his musical talents to the independent film production entitled “Brothers Inc.”
Revered for his inventiveness, strong sense of rhythm, soulfulness, galactic harmonic excursions and his commitment to music research and development, James enjoys the challenge of balancing performance and education. When in New York City he teaches private instruction through the New School University.