James Westfall

James Westfall is a multi-genre instrumentalist, composer, and arranger living and working in Nashville after 14 years living and working in the lush music scene in New Orleans. He performs most regularly on keyboards, piano and mallet percussion.

While living in New Orleans he attended The University of New Orleans where he was able to perform and be mentored under Harold Battiste, Ellis Marsalis, and Steve Masakowski. Earlier, James spent time in New York, where he was invited to participate in the Kennedy CenterÌ¢‰â‰ã¢s Betty Carter Jazz Ahead program, and in 2003 was accepted as the first vibraphonist in the history of The Thelonious Monk Institute. Also while in New York, he formed ‘The Wee Trio,’ a band that has performed across the country at major venues and festivals, and whose recordings have garnered critical acclaim. The notables with whom James has performed include Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Kenny Garrett, Clark Terry, Nicholas Payton, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Gretchen Parlato.