James Petri

Narrator

James Petri is a dedicated music educator and leader who has spent decades shaping the musical landscape of Long Beach, California.

For many years, James served as the Music Curriculum Leader for the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD), where he championed comprehensive arts education and guided instructional framework developments for schools across the district. During his tenure as curriculum leader, he worked closely with the Long Beach Symphony to coordinate the annual Concerts for Young People and bring the Symphony’s ensembles directly into elementary school classrooms, providing vital live music experiences to thousands of students. His foundational impact as a teacher is best highlighted by his time at Longfellow Elementary School, where he inspired generations of young musicians and fostered a deep, lifelong appreciation for music.

Currently, James brings his wealth of public school experience to higher education, serving on the Music Education faculty at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), where he mentors and trains the next generation of music educators. Deeply rooted in his local community, he also serves as the organist at the California Heights United Methodist Church, continuing his enduring commitment to excellence in music pedagogy, performance, and community arts advocacy.