James Francies

James Francies is an alumnus of The New School’s College of Performing Arts (CoPA), where he earned a BFA in Piano from the School of Jazz and Contemporary Music in 2017. He currently works as a songwriter, producer, and lecturer, focusing on collaborative music projects and his own album development. At CoPA, he embraced experimental approaches to music, learning to 'think outside the box' through mentorship with artists like Grammy winner Bilal Oliver. His teaching includes leading an ensemble class and providing private lessons, emphasizing hands-on learning and artistic growth.

Education:

• BFA in Piano, School of Jazz and Contemporary Music, The New School (2017)

Research interests revolve around innovative music production, interdisciplinary collaboration, and pedagogical experimentation. He prioritizes creativity and technical skill, drawing on trial-and-error methods learned at CoPA. Teaching is a core passion, aiming to 'articulate knowledge so deeply that even a five-year-old could grasp it.'

Future goals include launching his own educational program and expanding his musical reach through collaborations and album releases. His work balances artistic expression with mentorship, reflecting a commitment to both personal growth and community engagement.