James Smith is currently in his twelfth year as Director of Percussion for the Sherman Independent School District in Sherman Texas. Under his leadership, the program has seen success at the local and state levels. The Sherman Percussion Ensemble was established by Mr. Smith in 2007. Since it’s induction, the ensemble has more than doubled in size and has become a group of national recognition. In 2017 the Sherman Percussion Ensemble performed at the Music for All Percussion Festival in Indianapolis, IN. The Sherman Drumline has won several high percussion awards at multiple local marching band contests. The Sherman Bass Line has won their caption at the Plano Drumline Contest and Lonestar Percussion Classic numerous times. The Sherman High School Marching Band has performed at the Texas State Marching contest multiple times and was finalists in 2007 and 20011.

From 2009-2011 James Smith was on the percussion staff with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps. While with the Blue Knights, Mr. Smith primarily worked with the snare line as well as assisting with caption responsibilities. Other teaching experience includes assisting DCI Hall of Fame member Thomas Hannum with the UMass pit and spring marching percussion techniques class. James also taught the Spirit of America Indoor Drumline and the New Mexico State University Drumline.

Mr. Smith received his Masters degree in Percussion Performance from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. He received his bachelor’s degree in Music Education from New Mexico State University. James has studied with Thomas Hannum, Eduardo Leandro, Dr. Fred Bugbee. Dr. Blake Tyson, Pat Amann, Jeff Ausdemore, and Jeff Cornelius. Mr. Smith is proud to endorse Vic Firth Sticks and Mallets and Majestic/Mapex Musical Instruments. James currently resides in Sherman, Texas with his wife Monika and his daughter Annabella.