Born in Savannah, Georgia, on March 26, 1925, he took up the alto sax at age 16. In 1947 Moody joined the seminal bebop big band of Dizzy Gillespie, beginning an association that has afforded the saxist world-wide exposure and ample opportunity to shape his improvisational genius.

James headlines the festival, playing with deep resonance and wit that have made him one of the most expressive and enduring figures in modern jazz.