James Underwood

Chief Executive, West Sussex Music

James is chief executive of West Sussex Music (WSM), a not-for-profit independent charity providing music education to children & young people, in schools and music centres across the county. As well as running music education services – music lessons, ensembles, workshops, instrument loan, holiday activities, and teacher training - since 2013 WSM has built a network of 20 partner organisations, such as Glyndebourne, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and Waves Music Therapy, that work together to ensure the most comprehensive and accessible range of musical opportunities for all young people.

James has worked in West Sussex since 2003, during which he had a 5 year spell in Hampshire. Prior to this he had been a head of music, a classroom teacher, and woodwind teacher.

Developing a vision for West Sussex to be a place where every child and young person can explore the life-changing benefits of music on their education, their wellbeing, and their future has been central James’ work at WSM. Developing a high-quality workforce of teachers in and out of schools is essential to ensuring this vision becomes a reality.



James is excited to be part of Creative County West Sussex and its mission to help improve outcomes for more young people through better cultural connections across the arts.