Violin teacher

Originally from Sydney, James Chen has performed internationally as a soloist and has appeared in recitals in France, Germany, UK and Italy, most notably at the MusicAlp Festival,Talent Music Festival and Hellensmusic Festival.

He was the only Australian to be invited to compete at the Paganini International Violin Competition (2021) and Sendai International Violin Competition (2022).

He has also received awards from the Australian Music Foundation and the Tait Memorial Trust.

James commenced his undergraduate studies in 2018 at the Royal Academy of Music on a full scholarship under the guidance of Rodney Friend MBE while receiving further mentorship from leading musicians such as Midori, Augustin Hadelich and James Ehnes.

During his time in London, he also was an ambassador for the Benedetti Foundation where he led music education projects throughout the UK.

James’ orchestral experience includes being awarded the MMSF Instrumental Fellowship for the Philharmonia Orchestra in London.

This allowed him to work as a section member as well as being invited to trial for the co-leader position of the orchestra.

Through this opportunity, he has been able to work with some notable musicians including Marin Alsop, Rachel Podger, Simone Young and Herbert Bloomstedt.

Prior to moving to London for his undergraduate studies, he also worked as a casual musician with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

As a chamber musician, James has regularly collaborated with members of the Berlin Philharmonic, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie, London Symphony Orchestra and the Philharmonia Orchestra.

Currently, he lives in Armidale where he is in his third year of studying medicine at UNE.

He enjoys working with students at NECOM and finds a refreshing balance between academics, teaching and performing.