James Hughes Saxophones

Jazz Saxophonist James Hughes is one of Detroit's most original voices on the scene. His music is full of personality, freshness and distinction, while staying rooted in the great tradition of be-bop and swing. He studied jazz at Wayne State University and earned his Masters of Music in 2009.

He is a first-call freelance Saxophonist in the Detroit area and has worked with notable artists Aretha Franklin, Josh Groban, Idina Menzel, The Temptations, The O'Jays, Kenny G, and Bernadette Peters. He has performed with jazz giants Jimmy Heath, Richie Cole, Dave Liebman, The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Arturo Sandoval and Eddie Daniels.

His composition "Luna di Luna" was debuted by Jerry Bergonzi at Orchestra Hall in Detroit. James has recorded with many artists: Scott Gwinnell, Carl Cafagna, Bobby Streng, Paul Keller, Keith Vreeland, Ed Nuccilli, Melvin Davis, Motor City Jazz Orchestra, Davidson Magpie and Pirhana Head. He can even be heard playing tenor Sax on the New Looney Tunes Show.

In addition to a busy performance schedule, James maintains a teaching studio and is a conductor of jazz at Blue Lakes Fine Arts Camp.

He has two recordings under his own name, co-lead with trumpeter Jimmy Smith, FROM HERE ON OUT (2013) and EVER UP & ONWARD (2015).

For more information on James, check out his website: www.jameshughesmusic.net