James Letham, Piano Teacher, St George's Music Department

Dip. Mus. Ed. RSAMD, Glasgow 1975 (Piano, Voice and Horn)
PGCE (Music) Jordanhill College of Education (Distinction) 1976

James began his teaching career in Galashiels Academy (1976), before moving to Jedburgh Grammar School (1981) as Head of Music.  In 1998 he took up the post of Head of Music at Hawick High School. He reduced his teaching commitment in 2011, continuing to work in both Hawick and Berwickshire High schools until 2017.

Within the SQA James was Senior Examiner at Intermediate 2 level and, for two years, Subject Implementation Manager. He has set Listening Papers at Intermediate, Higher and Advanced Higher levels and was a member of the Advanced Higher team. Hehas been a Visiting Assessor at all levels since 2003.

A keen supporter of community music-making, James has directed amateur operatic societies in Melrose, Galashiels and Hawick, conducted the Eildon singers (currently their accompanist), Gala Water Singers, Melody Makers (Hawick Community Choir) and Abbey Consort, as well as conducting Scottish Borders Youth Orchestra for over 30 years.

Recent developments have been the formation of the Agapanthus Duo, with violinist Andrew Sherwood, and singing bass solos for performances by local choirs. In addition to performing, James enjoys composing in a range of styles - instrumental, orchestral and choral.