Paul Tully introduced his friend and the multi-talented musician Jim Ciampi, of Portland. After enjoying a delicious lunch, Jim Ciampi thanked the Rotarians for inviting him to speak about the career he has enjoyed as an experienced General Business musician. Although musicians have opportunities to excel in their fields of special interests, for example, like being a "classical musician," it has been Jim's lifelong goal to be an accomplished General Business musician. General business musicians are professional musicians who specialize in performing "general business" gigs: including private events such as conferences, weddings, religious events, birthday parties, dances, and corporate functions.
Jim’s schedule is often filled for an entire year and sometimes, like in December, he might have only one day off in the month. In his career, he has performed at 1,500 weddings. At many weddings where he performs, he is also the Master of Ceremonies. Sometimes, if he is able to blend performing the music with other roles, he can help the hosts and sponsors to achieve an affordable program.
He was inspired to learn to perform music when he was 14 years old, because he observed the popular musician, Tony Boffa and his band, when they played at the Portland Italian Heritage Center. In fact, Tony Boffa was his role mode, and he now lives and performs in Florida.
Jim pursued his interest with performing and event management after attending Boston College. He became involved in event design, including coordinating the programs' logistics. Eventually, he established an event facility, which became The Landing at Pine Point, Scarborough, where hundreds of musicians entertain, benefit performances are hosted and concert artists perform.
His primary focus now is to lead "The Jim Ciampi Band," a versatile 8-piece dance band. He also performs solo for small groups and house parties. His most recent project is "Keys to the City Dueling Piano Showcase,” described as a tradition of a dueling piano request based sing-along show. The performance incorporates audience participation and comedy. Jim acknowledged Portland, Maine as being, "A great music town!", because local establishments encourage live musical entertainment.
As a musical holiday tribute to the season, Jim played a keyboard accompaniment to the Rotarians' sing-along of "White Christmas" and "Let it Snow."