James Bower: Timpani
Principal Timpani
Credit: Andy Paradise
About James Bower
Principal Timpani
After growing up in Cornwall, James studied at the Birmingham Conservatoire for an undergraduate degree before moving to London to study at the Royal Academy of Music for his postgraduate diploma. After leaving the academy James freelanced as a timpanist and percussionist before joining the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra as principal timpanist in 2025. James started at the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in 2026.
Chair Patron
This Chair is currently available for support. Becoming an RPO Chair Patron allows supporters to build a closer relationship with our players and offers unique insights into our broader programme of activity. Find out more about becoming an RPO Chair Patron here.