James Nichols

James Nichols is a guitarist/musician and teacher. He grew up in Southern California and began studying guitar seriously at the age of 14. He first played music professionally while a student at San Diego State University, graduating with a degree in English Literature and completing two years of post-graduate studies in secondary education. Though originally inspired by rock, there was always a strong interest in jazz. Even in his early rock band days James was listening to and studying jazz players like Charlie Christian and Wes Montgomery. Seeing and hearing artists like Joe Pass and Bill Evans in concert made a lasting impression.

James has played in a myriad of different musical groups over the years, from hard rocking bar bands to Christian worship bands. His current musical direction includes both teaching and performing music. He teaches at schools and community centers, conducts week-long music camps, and works with a number of talented private students.

Reflecting his background and interest in education, James worked for several years with the Laboratory of Comparative Human Cognition at the University of California at San Diego conducting research; designing, developing and implementing learning programs; and supervising undergraduate students. James has taught guitar classes for the local school district for the past six years.

Currently James is playing primarily jazz guitar. He performs throughout Southern California as a solo guitarist and in small ensembles.