Jim Benoit, a native of Niskayuna, New York, performs professionally throughout the United States as both a classical, jazz, and contemporary percussionist. As a timpanist and percussionist, Jim has performed with groups including the Pittsburgh Symphony, Boston Pops, New World Symphony, Albany Symphony, Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, West Virginia Symphony, Sarasota Orchestra, and the Boston Modern Orchestra Project. Jim has also gone on tour as Principal Timpanist with the Lucas Films Production "Star Wars in Concert" and performed at many prestigious music festivals including the PROMS in London, the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, and the Aspen Music Festival in Colorado. He has also been a finalist for the Timpanist position in both the Chicago Symphony and New World Symphony. As a jazz vibraphonist, Jim has performed as a member of Phil Wilson's Rainbow Band and as a member of the WAITIKI 7. Jim has received honorable mentions for his performing abilities by both the Zildjian and Yamaha Corporations, and was a performer on the PBS National Radio Broadcast, "From the Top." Currently living in Pittsburgh pursuing an Artist Diploma from Duquesne University, Jim received a Bachelors Degree from the Berklee College of Music, and his Masters Degree from The Juilliard School.