James Fernando Trio
About the trio (short):
The James Fernando Trio has been praised for the “swinging within an inch of its ever-loving life” by DownBeat and called “one of the most rewarding discoveries in recent years” by Paris Move. Philadelphia-based pianist James Fernando formed the trio in 2023 after being invited to fill an open performance slot at the Kennedy Center on just three days’ notice. The group’s immediate chemistry led to ongoing performances at leading venues and universities across the United States, where they have become known for a joyful, forward-thinking approach to the piano trio tradition. In 2026, they released their debut album, Philly 3.
About the trio (long):
The James Fernando Trio has been described by DownBeat as “swinging within an inch of its life,” recognized by Paris Move as “one of the most rewarding discoveries in recent years,” called “hip and hard hitting” by Jazz Weekly, and praised by Couleurs Jazz for “balancing dazzling virtuosity with a touch of playful mischief.”
After building a career that included international performances, collaborations with GRAMMY Award–winning artists, and several album releases, “prodigiously gifted composer and virtuoso pianist” (World Music Report) James Fernando formed his trio in 2023 after receiving a call to assemble a project for a Kennedy Center performance on just three days’ notice. Meeting onstage for the first time that day, the musicians quickly discovered a powerful musical chemistry and soon became one of the most dynamic groups emerging from the region, performing at leading venues and universities across the country. Their debut album, Philly 3, was released in 2026.
Based in Philadelphia, the James Fernando Trio creates music steeped in the tradition of jazz legends such as Duke Ellington, Oscar Peterson, and Thelonious Monk. Balancing playfulness with technical mastery, the trio offers fresh interpretations of jazz standards alongside compelling original compositions. Their performances bring the jazz tradition into the present day through inventive improvisation, clever arrangements, and captivating rhythms. Dynamic, powerful, and downright fun, the James Fernando Trio delivers a show audiences won’t want to miss.
