James Warrender

I started touring the UK and Europe as a musician at the age of 14... music and the creative industries has been a passion ever since!

I am an experienced professional writer and performer, who has worked both independently and with business partners (published writer with Warner Chappell). Much of my artistic output has been as writer and drummer with the bands Ellen and the Escapades, and Shadowlark. Both have garnered modest success with highlights including multiple Glastonbury performances, tours, film and TV syncs, and support from BBC Radio and stations further afield. I currently write for a variety of artists and catalogue, while also performing in Weetwood Mac; an artistic homage to the 70's/80's rock band Fleetwood Mac.

An active interest in the industries and partners that support such artistic outputs has enabled me to develop knowledge and expertise in many topics affiliated with ‘music business’ (in DIY, traditional and less traditional routes to market).

In a 'professional' environment I have developed and delivered various extra/co curricular support interventions for the students and graduates of Leeds Conservatoire, where I am currently Head of Strategic Partnerships & Enterprise. Creating learning resources, work opportunities and fruitful partnerships is at the heart of the team I lead. We also draw together our events remit, promoting the brilliant talent at LC via our live performance output, and developing audiences and work that reflects and supports the local communities. Aiming to support the building of a creative ecosystem in Leeds (and Yorkshire/‘the north’) in order to retain talent in the region is a major part of the drive to maintain success in this role. I have also bean lead KE professional on our UKRI Knowledge Exchange funding, developing and delivering suitable projects that benefit all partners.

Supporting the aspirations and ambitions of other creatives is a rewarding job, and developing new ideas and ways in which to support this has become a valued skill of mine.