Chicago-born James Blake joined The Phoenix Symphony in 1983, where he plays second French horn.
James earned degrees from Northwestern University and the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago. He studied with Max Pottage, Frank Brouk and Dale Clevenger.
James performed with several of Chicago's local orchestras and the Interlochen Music Camp during his youth. He also spent three seasons with the Chicago Civic, 11 seasons with the Syracuse Symphony, one year with the Center Orchestra of Lake Placid, and five with the Flagstaff Festival Orchestra. Other highlights of his career include a 30-day European tour and recordings made at Carnegie Hall.