When audiences see Dr. James K. Bass conducting Seraphic Fire, they see one of the nation’s leading choral musicians, known for precision, artistry, and a deep commitment to musical excellence. What they may not see, however, is the story of a boy from Tampa, Florida, who discovered the power of music in a public school classroom, a family that rented a violin for seven dollars a month, and a young hockey goalie who learned teamwork long before he ever stepped onto a podium.
From Humble Beginnings to a Life in Music
James grew up in a household that, as he puts it, “technically existed below the Federal Poverty line.” There was little money for extras, but there was access to something priceless: a public school education that valued the arts. One field trip in second grade changed everything.
“I remember going to see the Gulf Coast Symphony, now the Florida Orchestra, perform Pictures at an Exhibition by Mussorgsky,” he said. “The incredible colors, the sensation of the bass drum and low strings made an indelible mark on me, and I believe it changed my trajectory from that day forward.”
That spark became the foundation for a lifelong love of music. When a string teacher later visited his fifth-grade classroom to start a violin program, James jumped at the chance but knew his family could not afford it. “He mentioned the school had a program to rent a violin at a reduced rate, and I was able to rent one for $7 a month,” he recalled. “I was overjoyed. I’m certain we must have sounded awful, but I didn’t care. I was learning an instrument.” The violin opened the door, and soon after, he switched to double bass, which led him to the Interlochen Arts Academy and, eventually, college.
Lessons from the Ice and the Podium
Before music became his full-time pursuit, James found another outlet for discipline and teamwork: ice hockey. He played as a goalie for the University of Miami’s club hockey team, an experience that still influences his leadership style today.
“Sports and music are similar in so many ways,” he said. “You practice a skill over and over so that in the game or the performance, it becomes second nature. Each member of a team has their own critical role to play, exactly like in a musical ensemble.”
While hockey provided lessons in focus and collaboration, music always remained his true passion. “I knew I didn’t have the physical gifts to be a professional hockey player,” he said. “But I knew I had an opportunity in music if I worked hard enough.”
Mentors, Gratitude, and a Vision for Leadership
James credits much of his growth to the teachers who shaped his musical path. At Interlochen, he joined choir for social reasons, only to find his calling under conductor Hugh Floyd. “He was inspiring and engaging,” James recalled. “I was suddenly exposed to so much new choral music, and it was absolutely amazing.”
From there, he continued his studies with Dr. Robert Summer at the University of South Florida and Dr. Jo-Michael Scheibe during his doctoral work, both of whom expanded his understanding of choral music’s depth and diversity. “Those experiences formed the foundation for who I am as a musician and a leader today,” he said.
As he prepares to officially step into his new role as Artistic Director of Seraphic Fire on June 1, 2026, James brings with him a lifetime of perspective and gratitude. “All of my experiences have prepared me for this important professional moment,” he said. “My journey, from extremely humble beginnings, has shaped how I make and experience music. I live every day like it is an honor and gift, not an owed privilege.”
That outlook guides his approach on the podium. “Singers carry their instruments inside their bodies, and any criticism of their instrument is deeply personal,” he explained. “It is an extremely delicate balance to demand musical precision while allowing freedom to make mistakes. Seraphic Fire has a culture of high professionalism, and I hope to maintain that while reminding every singer or player that they are an integral part of our success.”
Looking Ahead
Outside of rehearsals, James still follows hockey closely. “The Tampa Bay Lightning get all of my attention,” he said. “Watching sports and listening to audiobooks help clear my mind and lower my stress.”
For young musicians, his message is simple and sincere. “Anyone can do this. If I can, you absolutely can,” he said. “It doesn’t matter where you come from. What matters is what you seek out and your conviction to pursue it wholly. It only takes one small experience to change your entire life path.”
James will be back in South Florida this November singing as a bass soloist in Seraphic Fire’s performances of Bach Motets, followed by conducting “Twas the Night Before Christmas” in December. Tickets are available now at SeraphicFire.org/tickets or by calling 305.285.9060.
