Faculty, Indiana University, Jacobs School of Music (retired) | Artistic Director, The Festival of the Sound 
NYO Canada Alum: 1968 & 1969 | Faculty: Clarinet, June 15 – June 20, 2025 

For James Campbell, NYO Canada in the late 1960s was more than a summer program—it was the beginning of lifelong friendships and deep musical lessons that would shape the rest of his career. 

“Many of the friendships that began with colleagues in the orchestra have lasted a lifetime. Bonds made while making music together are never forgotten.” 

Those summers were also a rare opportunity for James to study with one of the most influential clarinetists of the 20th century. 

“I was one of four fortunate young players who had a daily lesson with the grandfather of North American clarinet playing, the legendary Daniel Bonade. Those lessons, the intense attention to detail in wind sectionals and orchestra rehearsals, showed me what is required to meet the demands of professional life in music and gave truth to the saying that: ‘an amateur prepares a passage until they can play it, professionals prepare a passage so they can’t play it wrong.'” 

As an educator, James sees every lesson as a collaboration. 

“Lessons are a two-way event, especially when working with committed, talented students. I learn as much from them as I hope they learn from me.” 

When asked what he wishes he had known earlier in his musical life: 

“There is a wonderful Zen saying, ‘When the student is ready to learn, the master appears.’ I look back and wish that when I was young, I wasn’t always ready to hear the advice so freely given by teachers, mentors, and colleagues.” 

Looking ahead to his time with the 2025 orchestra: 

“As always, I look forward to being inspired by the energy and passion young players bring to NYOC every summer.” 

And on repertoire: 

“It is often said that Mozart’s music is too easy for amateurs and too difficult for professionals. How true that is; it takes a lifetime to make his music sound as simple and natural as it looks on the page. I enjoy helping young players start this journey!”