James Grace

James Grace is one of one South Africa’s leading concert artists. In recent years he has appeared with the Cape Philharmonic, the Kwa-Zulu Natal Philharmonic, the Johannesburg Festival, the Johannesburg Philharmonic and the Free State Symphony in concerti by Rodrigo, Villa – Lobos, Giuliani and Vivaldi.

James studied at the Royal College of Music in London as a Foundation Scholar with Carlos Bonell. Upon graduating he became the first guitarist in the history of the College to receive the Tagore Gold Medal, an annual award presented to the most outstanding student.

After spending two years in Doha, in the Arabian State of Qatar where he taught guitar at an International Music Centre, James returned to South Africa and was appointed Head of Classical Guitar Studies at the University of Cape Town.
James maintains a full time international performing and teaching schedule. He appears regularly at the major arts festivals, and enjoys collaborations with various chamber groups and other musicians.

James has recently released his fourth solo album under his own record label Stringwise Records, Sevilla – Music of Spain II, which has recently been nominated for SAMA for Best Popular Classical Album. His previous release, Cafe Latino, went to Number 1 on the Classic FM Top 20 South African Chart Show and earned James a SAMA nomination for Best Instrumental Album at the 2009 MTN South African Music Awards.

James is currently setting up the Stringwise Young Artist’s Trust, with the aim of assisting young artists from across the country produce their own albums and offer bursaries for overseas study.