James Mahone is a saxophonist, composer, and educator whose career spans the United States and Japan. He began his musical journey in Monterey, California, and studied classical and jazz saxophone at California State University, Northridge under Bill Caulkins, performing with the university’s award-winning wind ensembles and jazz big bands. After relocating to Los Angeles, Mahone became a member of the acclaimed jazz quintet Black Note, recording for Columbia and GRP/Impulse and touring nationally and internationally, including appearances at the Montreal International Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival, Pori Jazz Festival, and Umbria Jazz Festival. He later continued his studies in New York City at The New School, working with Garry Dial, Billy Harper, Benny Powell, and Charles Tolliver while performing extensively and maintaining a private teaching studio. Mahone also spent several years performing and teaching in Tokyo, Japan, where he was active as a recording artist and educator, including serving as a saxophone instructor at St. Maur International School. Now based in the Bay Area, he performs regularly with many of the region’s leading musicians while continuing his work as a dedicated educator.