2.17.09 Performance of Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2

"The tour-de-force of the evening was saved for the second half of the concert. Pianist Dr. James D. Cockman, III joined the KC Wind Symphony to perform Rachmaninov’s 2nd Piano Concerto in C Minor (op. 18) … In this new transcription for symphonic band by Jeremy Schwinger, James Cockman proved his status as a truly world-class concert pianist. Cockman performed with immense musicality and razor-sharp virtuosity."

KC Metropolis

9.8.09 Solo Performance in Baton Rouge, LA

"The Music Club of Baton Rouge was extremely honored to present you as our Guest Artist last month. The audience was obviously thrilled and elated by your exciting and beautiful performance. From the first to the last notes of your recital, we were all completely drawn into the music and your vibrant and commanding interpretation of it. I appreciated your innate rhythmic vitality which brings such a strong sense of structure and cohesiveness to your playing and the musicality and intelligence with which you shape every phrase. You have the ability to impart to your listeners the wonderful joy you feel when you are playing, and that is indeed a precious gift.

Everyone was delighted to meet you and to have the opportunity to socialize with you at the reception. Thank you again for honoring us with your exceptional talent!"

Constance Carroll

9.9.09 Solo Performance in Monticello, AR

"The University of Arkansas Monticello Fine Arts Center Auditorium appeared as the place to be for those who have a musical appreciation for piano and classical music as award winning pianist James Cockman III dazzled the crowd with his musical expertise Sept. 10. Cockman started the evening off with an unscheduled tribute song to Dr. Annette Hall, the former chair of the UAM Division of Music, who died in August.

Though a relatively small audience, he received a positive reaction from those in attendance.  "Wow! He’s an excellent performer," Chris Richard said. "I believe his music is astounding." Those organizing the event praised him as well. "He interprets music very well," coordinator Haley Grier said. Rob Fellows, President of the Monticello Music Club, added, "He has a firm grasp of various styles."

Cockman attended the University of Kansas where he earned his Doctorate in Piano Performance and Pedagogy. He has performed at the Kansas City Wind Symphony and as a part of "Concerto for Piano and Wind Instruments" at Carnegie Hall in New York. Cockman currently tours Arkansas and will perform in Bentonville, Arkadelphia and Texarkana. When not performing, Cockman enjoys creating his own music and playing at his church in Kansas City, where he now resides."

Nick Johnson, "Award-Winning Pianist Performs at UAM" ©The Voice 2009

9.26.09 Performance of Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2

"I read your biography and the various accolades written about you when I heard you were coming to the Bell Cultural Events Center with the Kansas City Wind Symphony.  I expected to hear a good performance of a challenging piece, the Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor.

What I experienced was a moving, extremely well performed and interpreted rendition.  I am a vocalist and I often find myself judging an instrumental performance by the same set of values I expect from a vocalist; does the performer make the song theirs or is it just a copy of someone’s interpretation?  Do they 'feel' the music or merely sing it?  While all the notes may be right is there passion behind them or just notes?  The Rachmaninov, as well as the encore pieces you played which were extremely well received, was Yours, totally.  You played all the notes right, but with passion and feeling, truly making the piano--the Bösendorfer--'sing'!"

Karen L. Phillips, Bell Cultural Events Center Coordinator, MidAmerica Nazarene University

3.1.10 Solo Performance in Tigerville, SC

"James Cockman III is a pianist of impressive stability and maturity, able to carry large forms and work their inner logic into a compelling presentation. His remarkable pianistic power is carefully directed by clear, uncompromising musical choices. His insights into the works of Mussorgsky and Debussy are delightful, revealing courage and richness of thought that promise important achievements for years to come. His recital was a welcome and important addition to our Cultural Events series.

Fabio Parrini, Professor of Music and Piano Coordinator, Cline School of Music, North Greenville University