James Brown is originally from Houston, Texas, where he earned his Bachelor of Music in organ performance and Masters of Music in choral conducting with emphasis in performance practice at the University of Houston. Mr. Brown studied viola da gamba under Barrett Sills of Houston, and Martha McGaughey of New York before moving to Austin in July of 2002. He continues to specialize in the performance and direction of the repertory of 17th century France.

Mr. Brown has been Faculty member of the Fall & Summer Texas Toots, as well as large ensemble director, staff member, and Executive Advisory Board member for Amherst Early Music. He was also technical editor for the new edition of Petrucci's Odhecaton, Canti A produced by Amherst Early Music under the direction of David Fallows. James served as musical director and gambist for Polyhymnia, a group specializing in Renaissance and early Baroque choral repertory. Mr. Brown was recently named a permanent member of La Follia Austin Baroque and plays frequently with Texas Early Music Project. He is also Director of Music and Arts for First Presbyterian Church, Austin, Texas.