Eclectic Soundtrax Podcast - #61 w/ James Desautels - a podcast by Skunk Manhattan & Victor Ramos

On this episode we chat with virtuoso violinist, composer, producer, songwriter, arranger, and conductor, James Desautels. From concert halls and music festivals to small clubs and intimate recording studios, “Jamie” has performed in 37 countries across 5 continents over a career spanning more than 20 years.

Born in Calgary, Canada, Jamie began studying classical violin at age 5 and within two years was also studying fiddle, country and bluegrass music. As a teenager he toured playing classical and fiddle music, and after achieving a Music Performance Diploma from Mount Royal University Conservatory at age 19 and a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Calgary at age 21, Jamie moved to the United States to attend the University of Arizona where he received his Masters. Soon after he relocated to obtain a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Texas. He resided in Austin for 17 years while working and touring as a professional musician.

Jamie first gained international attention when he was invited to tour as a violinist with David Byrne and Tosca Strings. Since then he has worked with Arcade Fire, Austin Pops Orchestra, Marcia Ball, Garth Brooks, Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Natalie Cole, Elvis Costello, Christopher Cross, Diana Krall, Ray LaMontagne, Yo-Yo Ma, Bobby McFerrin, Don McLean, Willie Nelson, Jeffrey Osborne, Luciano Pavarotti, Pearl Jam, Itzhak Perlman, Ray Price, Bruce Robison, San Antonio Symphony, Doc Severinsen, Frank Sinatra Jr., the Temptations, Vast, and countless other artists. He is the solo violinist on the soundtrack to the Hollywood movie 'Badland’, the first violinist on the soundtrack for the series finale episode of 'The Office', and a violinist on the soundtrack for Terence Malick's film 'To the Wonder'. Jamie has taught master classes in Jinan, China and Xian and China as well as recording music for Audium/Koch, Blue Rock, Disney, Microsoft, Nonesuch, Virgin Classics, Vitamin, and Warner Music Group.

Currently residing in Canada, Jamie has shifted his focus to politics in recent years and even decided to run for mayor in his hometown of Calgary in 2021.

For more on James Desautles visit: Website | Facebook | Discogs | Linkedin

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