JAMES ‘JIM’ ANTHONY PAOLETTI NOV. 14, 1958 - DEC. 17, 2025

Monterey County Pops! is saddened to announce the death of our Founding Principal Tuba, James “Jim” Paoletti, age 67, who passed away peacefully on Dec. 17, 2025, following a courageous battle with complications from Parkinson’s disease.  Jim played in every one of our concerts until his retirement in the fall of 2022.  He also performed regularly with the Wild Coast Brass Ensemble.

He appeared as the featured soloist in the July 4, 2022 MCP! Carmel concert in “Tubby the Tuba” with Reg Huston as narrator.  His tuba master class can be viewed on our website as part of our “Pops Pros Teach” series: https://www.montereycountypops.org/pops-pros-teach

Music Director, Dr. Carl Christensen, commented, “All musicians agree that the bass line is the most important part of any ensemble.  Jim was our solid foundation.  He was also an enthusiastic and resourceful teaching artist for young tuba players in our High School Residency Program, and he will be sorely missed by students and colleagues alike.”

Born on Nov. 14, 1958, in Burbank, California, to the late Anthony and Thelma Paoletti, Jim's journey was defined by a profound dedication to music and education. He attended Cal State LA, where he earned his bachelor's degree, master’s degree and teaching credential.  This academic foundation paved the way for a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District.  As a teacher and director, Jim mentored students from elementary through high school, teaching all instruments with a vibrant enthusiasm that was infectious.

Jim was deeply drawn to providing musical experiences to children through Orchestra in  the Schools, a nonprofit youth orchestra, where he served as CEO and music director.  This youth orchestra shared the stage with MCP! during several Memorial Day concerts on the Monterey City Hall Lawn.

Outside of the classroom and the concert hall, Jim was an avid and skilled sailor. A proud member of the Monterey Peninsula Yacht Club, he spent his summer breaks seeking adventure on the water, often sailing to Catalina Island or through the San Francisco Bay. Whether on stage or at sea, Jim's life was marked by energy and a love for discovery.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Emma; his son, Jacob; his granddaughter, Jamie; his brother, George; and his sister-in-law, Sue. He also leaves behind his constant companion, his cat, Stanley.