James Kuzmic

Tuba and Euphonium Instructor, Principal Tuba, Newport Symphony

James Kuzmic hails from Allenton Wisconsin and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and a Master’s Degree from the University of Oregon. He currently holds the positions as Principal Tuba of the Portland Columbia Symphony Orchestra and the Newport Symphony Orchestra. He is also the Bass Trombonist for Orchestra Next.

While not on stage performing, James also serves as the Instructor of Low Brass at Lane Community College. As an active musician, James performs all around the state of Oregon with groups including the Eugene Symphony Orchestra, Portland Opera, and the Sunriver Music Festival Orchestra. As a soloist, James has performed many recitals on the tuba, bass trombone, euphonium, and contrabass trombone, and been the featured soloist with the UWSP Low Brass Choir, Hartford City Band, and the UO Trombone Choir.

Another passion of James’ is composition, where he has premiered several works with various university and community ensembles.

James also loves sharing his love for music with students, being asked to coach various highschool and middle school summer camps, giving masterclasses, teaching private lessons, and adjudicating state solo & ensembles.