Biography

Flutist James Hilsabeck currently holds the position of Principal Flute with the Dana Point Symphony and is active freelance musician in the greater Los Angeles area. James began playing the flute at the age of eight and made his solo debut performing Mozart’s Flute Concerto in G Major with the Irvine Young Concert Artists at the age of 17.

As a soloist, James was featured with Symphony Irvine performing Mercadante’s Flute concerto in E Minor in the spring of 2015 and most recently he was featured with the Dana Point Symphony performing Chaminade’s Concertino for Flute in their 2018 season.

As an orchestral flutist, James has performed tours in both Europe and Asia as principal flute with the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra. His has also recorded on various projects for internationally acclaimed artists and films, and most recently, for Season Two of the Netflix hit series, Chef’s Table.

James has studied under the mentorship of Florence Estrin, former flutist and piccoloist of Indianapolis Symphony and the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. Additionally, he has also received instruction from James Walker, Bernard Krabatsch and Diane Weber. As an educator, James maintains a private studio in Southern California. James has served as director of Flute Choir & Studies at the Diamond Bar Youth Symphony Orchestra.