James McCormick
Audio & Music Business Programme Leader
Bio
Engineering Creative Sound
James McCormick is the Programme Leader for Audio & Music at SAE UK, based in Liverpool. His career bridges audio production, music business and cutting-edge game audio, combining technical engineering with artistic expression. From shipped game titles to custom audio tools used by studios, James brings deep industry experience into every classroom and project.
Industry Impact
James has worked as a sound designer, editor and composer on a range of game releases, contributing to titles including: Dino D-Day, Dreamfall Chapters, Company of Heroes 2, LEGO City: Undercover, and more.
Beyond production, he has developed and released game audio tools used by studios and professionals, and actively builds community opportunities, such as integrating SAE students with the Liverpool Digital Music Festival.
Creative Vision
James loves the intersection of art and engineering – especially in game audio, where technology, storytelling and sound design collide. He thrives on helping students understand complex, technical concepts in ways that make sense to creative thinkers, demystifying tools and processes that often feel intimidating.
Creator Profile
Favourite tools?
Unreal Engine and FMOD.
Biggest inspiration?
Our successful graduates: seeing their careers grow is the ultimate motivation.
Fun fact?
James plays the handpan.
