Our Spotlight on the Arts is shining brightly on pianist James Fernando!
We were incredibly excited to hear that James will be performing locally in the Music from Poplar Hill (MFPH) concert on Friday, September 16, in Valley Lee, Maryland. Mr. Fernando will be joined by metal-pan artist Victor Provost for an exciting and innovative mix of instruments that seamlessly intertwine for an evening-only event.
Credit: Melisa DincerCredit: Melisa DincerCredit: Margot SchulmanCredit: Thom VareyCredit: Nick MorelandCredit: Margot SchulmanCredit: Margot SchulmanCredit: Margot SchulmanCredit: Nick Moreland
Our featured artist has been playing the piano and has been involved in her art form throughout her life. When James was old enough to sit comfortably on the bench and reach the keys, the magical journey of music began! Fast forward 20+ years, and we find Fernando still practicing, still learning, and still very interested in the intricacies of making music, especially in the jazz, classical, and electronic genres.
The Berklee College of Music graduate has numerous releases to his credit, including Extended Layover, The Lonely Sailor, Blackbird/Fly, and The Grind. James is on the Faculty at Levine Music in Washington, DC, and is a Strathmore Artist in Residence.
Fernando explains that he spends many hours honing his skills with the main goal of creating his future version as an artist five, ten, and even twenty years later. Finding inspiration for his art comes from several sources – sometimes some pieces of music, conversations with friends, or even just by hearing from the emotions found in nature.
The greatest joy James finds in his art is collaborating with other musicians, such as Victor Provost, with whom he will be sharing the stage this fall. “I realized when I click with an artist, the music we can create is greater than the sum of its parts. Victor is a unique and unique artist, and I am honored to be able to work with him. “
The Music Coming from Poplar Hill event was the result of a collaboration made by one of their organizers, Eliza Garth, who became aware of Fernando’s work through the Strathmore Artist in Residence program. An invitation was extended for the 2022-2023 season, which James was honored to receive.
When he’s not busy with his music career, James can be found on the tennis courts, a sport he picked up during the pandemic. Another benefit he reveals is that although the lifestyle of an artist can be stressful at times, working remotely means you never have to wait for an open court!
Thank you, James, for being a valued part of our art community; we hope to see you soon at a Music from Poplar Hill concert!
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/james-fernando/1088088470
Facebook: facebook.com/JamesFernandoMusic
