James Williamson was born in Selby, North Yorkshire and his initial studies in composition were pursued in his locality: first at the Leeds School of Music and later at the University of Huddersfield under Patrick Standford. Later studies were undertaken with Philip Cashian at the Royal Academy of Music, London. He also works as a trumpeter with the Powder Jazz Trio. His interests and influences range from Miles Davies, Bill Evans and John Coltrane through to David Bowie, Dream Evil, John Cage and J S Bach.