He studied jazz and classical guitar at the University of Northern Colorado, where he also participated in master classes with renowned guitarist Manuel Barrueco. In 1984, he moved to Boston to attend Berklee College of Music and later continued his studies with John Abercrombie at the Banff Jazz Workshop. His compositional voice has been shaped by jazz innovators such as Geri Allen, Dave Holland, and Maria Schneider.

Jamie earned his master’s degree in jazz composition from the New England Conservatory, where he studied with influential artists Joe Maneri and Mick Goodrick. His diverse performance career began with backing up pop legends including The O’Jays, The Temptations, Martha Reeves, Patti Page, Kay Starr, and The Drifters. In the jazz world, he has performed with notable figures such as George Russell, Jimmy Giuffre, John Stowell, Matt Maneri, George Schuller, Tony Malaby, and many others.

Jamie is currently a faculty member at the New England Conservatory Preparatory School, where he continues to share his experience and passion for music with the next generation of musicians.