James Fernando (b. 1995) is a Philadelphia-based pianist and composer whose music seamlessly blends jazz, classical, and electronic influences. He has been hailed by World Music Report as a “prodigiously gifted composer and virtuoso pianist,” by Jazz Sensibilities as “limitless in his ability to articulate his ideas,” and by Contemporary Fusion Reviews for “creating one of the most amazing musical experiences you’ve ever had.”
A former Strathmore Artist in Residence (2021–2022), Fernando has received numerous accolades, including recognition from DownBeat Magazine, the National YoungArts Foundation, and first prize at the West Virginia International Piano Competition. In 2017, he participated in the prestigious Banff International Workshop in Jazz & Creative Music. He graduated summa cum laude from Berklee College of Music in just three years.
Fernando has performed at premier venues and festivals worldwide, as well as for private audiences, including elected officials, celebrities, and billionaires. His collaborators include GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award winner Tom Paxton, GRAMMY winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, steelpan virtuoso Victor Provost, and jazz luminary Chris Cheek.
As a prolific recording artist, Fernando has released five albums. His discography includes Extended Layover(2018), a collaboration with Mingjia; his critically acclaimed solo debut The Lonely Sailor (2019); Blackbird/Fly (2021); The Grind(2022), a collaboration with Matt Lagan; and Piano Poetry (2023).
Beyond performing and composing, Fernando is a dedicated educator. He serves as a faculty member at Levine Music in Washington, D.C., and frequently leads workshops at universities and community music schools across the United States.