Holland, James (12th February 1933-Present)

He is a percussionist, teacher and author born in Ilford, London, England, who studied at Trinity College of Music from 1950 to 1952 and debuted with the London Symphony Orchestra in 1955.

In 1956 he became the Principal Percussionist with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, after taking his National Service with the RAF Central Band, staying with them until 1962. In 1962 he became the Principal Percussionist with the London Symphony Orchestra for the next 10 years until he held that same position with the BBC Symphony Orchestra for 22 years until 1994.

Other orchestras and ensembles he has performed with include the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, the London Sinfonietta and the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble among others.

His extensive recording library includes Messaien: Des Canyons aux Etoiles, Shostakovich Piano Concerto No. 2 and Bartok: Concerto No. 3, Le Boeuf Sur Le Toit with the LSO, Eine Art Chansons by Friedrich Cerha and Bartok: Music for Strings, Percussion and Celesta with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields.

As a teacher he has taught many students at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and as an author his works are Percussion in the Menuhin Music Guides and Practical Percussion – a Guide to the Instruments and their Sources which are very widely recognised in their field.

Here is the BBC Symphony Orchestra performing “Stars & Stripes Forever” at the 1985 London Proms…

Sources:

Holland, James (12th February 1933-Present)

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