Jim Murray graduated from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio with a bachelor's degree in music education, and spent 20 years as a band director. During that time he taught instrumental music at every level, from beginning students through high school, and his bands received consistently superior ratings from the Ohio Music Education Association.

Mr. Murray has been selected to many leadership roles for the OMEA, such as president of his local district and chairman for competitive events at all levels. For the past four years, he has served as the Music Supervisor for the Benton-Carroll-Salem School District in Oak Harbor, Ohio, as well as teaching music theory, computer education, and assisting with the band program.

Jim, his wife Pat, their five cats, and other assorted wildlife live on the edge of beautiful Maumee Bay State Park in Oregon, Ohio.