Cali Alumnus Named 2nd Trumpet of Lansing Symphony
James Reed Ricotta (’20), a Montclair State graduate, continues his rising career with this prestigious appointment.
Posted in: Cali Alumni Spotlight, Cali News
We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of Cali School of Music alumnus James Reed Ricotta (’20, B.M. Music Performance), who has been appointed 2nd Trumpet of the Lansing Symphony Orchestra.
A native of Toms River, New Jersey, Ricotta studied at Montclair State under Professor Donald Batchelder, Peter Bond of the Metropolitan Opera, and world-renowned baroque trumpet soloist John Thiessen. During his time at Montclair, he fondly recalls performing with the University Wind Symphony at the 2019 CBDNA conference in Tempe, Arizona—an experience that remains a highlight of his undergraduate years.
After graduating from Montclair in 2020, Ricotta earned a Master of Music in Trumpet Performance and Literature and a Performer’s Certificate at the Eastman School of Music, an Artist Diploma with distinction from the OAcademy Music Conservatory, and is now pursuing his Doctor of Musical Arts at Michigan State University under Justin Emerich, where he also serves as a Graduate Assistant.
Beyond his recent appointment in Lansing, Ricotta has performed with numerous professional ensembles, including the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Grand Rapids Symphony, Battle Creek Symphony Orchestra, and the Brass Band of Battle Creek. His artistry has taken him across North and Central America as a soloist, chamber, and orchestral musician.
Equally dedicated to teaching, Ricotta has held positions at both the Eastman School of Music and Michigan State University. He has taught Baroque Trumpet Studies, Brass Methods, Fundamental Trumpet Lessons, and coached chamber ensembles. He also works with the Spartan Marching Band and has mentored students who have gone on to achieve success in national competitions.
Ricotta has studied with many distinguished trumpet artists, including James Thompson, Matilda Lloyd, Mauro Maur, John Thiessen, Peter Bond, Donald Batchelder, and Justin Emerich. His festival appearances include the American Bach Soloists Academy, Sinfónica Azteca, and OAcademy, where he performed alongside Yo-Yo Ma.
The Cali School of Music congratulates James Reed Ricotta on this exciting new chapter in his career. We are proud of his accomplishments and look forward to watching his continued success on and off the stage.