James Reed Ricotta

James Reed Ricotta, a native of Toms River, New Jersey, is a versatile and highly regarded
trumpet artist recognized for his work as an orchestral, chamber, and solo performer. He has
performed with leading ensembles including the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Rochester
Philharmonic Orchestra, Grand Rapids Symphony, Battle Creek Symphony Orchestra, and the
Brass Band of Battle Creek. James has also performed in residencies with Sinfónica Azteca and
OAcademy Music Conservatory where he made fond memories collaborating with
world-renowned artists such as Yo-Yo Ma and Kayhan Kalhor.
A dedicated educator as well as a performer, James is currently pursuing his Doctor of Musical
Arts in Trumpet Performance at Michigan State University, where he serves as a Graduate
Assistant studying under the tutelage of Professor Justin Emerich. His teaching experience
includes positions at both the Eastman School of Music and Michigan State University, where he
has taught Baroque Trumpet Studies, Brass Methods, Fundamental Trumpet Lessons, and
coached chamber ensembles. He is also a staff member of the Spartan Marching Band and has
mentored students who have gone on to success at national competitions.
James holds a Master of Music in Trumpet Performance and Literature with a Performer’s
Certificate from the Eastman School of Music, an Artist Diploma with distinction from the
OAcademy Music Conservatory, and a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the John J. Cali
School of Music at Montclair State University. While at Eastman, he served as a Teaching
Assistant and Instructor of Baroque Trumpet Studies.
He has had the privilege of studying with James Thompson, Matilda Lloyd, Mauro Maur, John
Thiessen, Peter Bond, and Donald Batchelder.