The second installment of our wildly popular “Meet the CS team” series introduces us to another James – “J. G.,” our evening shift supervisor for SmartMusic support. We get many calls from students and parents after 5:00 p.m. Central time, and they all appreciate J.G.’s calming manner, especially when that grade-crucial assignment is due.

James: What is your musical background?
J.G.: I have a bachelor’s degree in music composition, and have played guitar in many rock bands.

Were you a Finale or SmartMusic user prior to joining us?
I’ve been using Finale since my freshman year in college. I discovered SmartMusic much more recently, but have actually used it with guitar, even though guitar is not officially supported.

What did you do prior to coming to MakeMusic?
I worked on the maintenance crew at Inver Wood Golf Course.

Wow, that’s quite a departure. Can you think of how that might have helped you prepare for your work here?
Sure. We were very committed to quality and attention to detail. Plus, today I am rarely caught off-guard by any flying objects.

Do you remain active musically?
I play guitar in a local Delta blues-influenced rock band – The 4onthefloor (www.4otf.com). I also compose orchestral music and am an active member of the American Composers Forum.

How many bass drums should a rock band have?
A rock band should have a minimum of one bass drum per member. (Again, see www.4otf.com)

If you had to learn a different instrument from scratch, which would you try and why?
I’d learn the violin, both for the tremendous sound and its rich history. It has the versatility to be a  part of so many different types of music, from classical violin to bluegrass and Irish fiddle.

If you could have a super power, what would it be?
Perfect pitch.

What do you enjoy most about working at MakeMusic?
Working alongside so many musicians as well as learning the depths and secrets of Finale.