Mr James Akers

Critically acclaimed musician James Akers was hailed as ‘the great Scottish guitarist’ by Classical Guitar Magazine and, in a review from Gramophone, his playing was described as, ‘containing all the warmth, colour and expressive richness one could hope for.’

James studied with Jakob Lindberg at the Royal College of Music, London and, following a Junior Fellowship at Trinity College of music, began performing widely with leading artists, ensembles, orchestras, opera and theatre companies including Alison Balsom, Dame Emma Kirkby, I Fagiolini, the Dunedin Consort, Stile Antico, English National Opera, Opera North, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Essen Philharmonie, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Damon Albarn.

James has released several solo recordings of lute and romantic guitar music and given recitals throughout Europe at major venues and festivals.

He lecturers on period plucked string instruments and performance practice at the Royal Conservatiore of Scotland.

Throughout his varied career James has explored music from a stylistic perspective, combining diligent research with expressive playing, to communicate the continuity of musical expression through the centuries.