james savage

James Savage

It is art that makes life, makes interest, makes importance...and I know of no substitute whatever for the force and beauty of its process. Henry James

James Savage, a native of Cleveland, studied piano and music at the Cleveland Institute of Music and Ohio State University. After his formal training he moved to Willoughby and began teaching music in several area public school systems.

For years, Jim and his wife Louise dreamed of opening a school in Lake County where students would be surrounded by all the arts, and where emphasis would be placed on personal development. In 1957, their dream was realized with the establishment of the Willoughby School of Fine Arts.

The work of the School of Fine Arts has touched thousands of Lake County residents during the 40 years since the founding of the organization. In fact, the organization has been described as the "cultural oasis" of Lake County.

After retirement, Jim remains an active figure in the community. He conducts the Painesville Women's Chorus and is a piano accompanist for area musicians, including his own daughter. His other love--the game of tennis--keeps him busy playing in tournaments and coaching students.