James Fernando Trio

About the trio (short):

The James Fernando Trio has been praised by DownBeat for “swinging within an inch of its ever-loving life” and called “one of the most rewarding discoveries in recent years” by Paris Move. Formed in 2023 when James was invited to perform at the Kennedy Center on just three days’ notice, the trio has gone on to perform at major venues, festivals, and universities across the U.S., including a 10-week residency at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. They released their debut album, Philly 3, on Spring Garden Records.

About the trio (long):

The James Fernando Trio has been praised by DownBeat for “swinging within an inch of its ever-loving life,” called “one of the most rewarding discoveries in recent years” by Paris Move, described as “hip and hard hitting” by Jazz Weekly, and praised by Couleurs Jazz for “balancing dazzling virtuosity with a touch of playful mischief.”

The trio formed in 2023 when pianist and composer James Fernando was invited to assemble a group for a Kennedy Center performance on just three days’ notice. Meeting onstage for the first time that day, the musicians immediately discovered a strong musical chemistry. What began as a last-minute performance became an ongoing collaboration, leading to appearances at leading venues, festivals, and universities across the United States. In 2026, they completed a 10-week residency at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the first of its kind at the institution, and released their debut album, Philly 3, on Spring Garden Records to widespread critical acclaim.

Rooted in the piano trio tradition, they bring Fernando’s compositions together with influences spanning eras of jazz and classical music, as well as musical traditions from around the world. They combine virtuosic playing with tight ensemble interplay, humor, and a deep sense of joy. The result is a performance that is adventurous and immediately engaging, rewarding close listening while bringing an audience along for the ride.