JazzFest: Concert with José Luiz Martins Quartet and James Fernando Trio

From the vibrant city of São Paulo, Brazil, José Luiz Martins is a pianist-composer-bandleader and producer based in the Washington, DC area. He is highly celebrated for his innovative approach and deeply expressive music. Drawing inspiration from the rich musical heritage of his homeland, José (pron. ‘Joe-zay’) seamlessly incorporates Brazilian rhythms with flavors of jazz, classical, rock, and contemporary music, creating a thoroughly unique and captivating sound.

José Luiz Martins has performed at prestigious venues and festivals across Brazil, Europe, and the Americas, sharing the stage with renowned musicians and ensembles. He has four albums as a leader, and his recordings as a solo artist, bandleader, and collaborator have received much critical acclaim, earning him awards and recognition from both national and international music communities and cohorts.

Martins’s fourth album, Odyssey Mixtape, was released on Origin Records in April 2025. Odyssey Mixtape garnered media acclaim from such prestigious publications as DownBeat Magazine, Modern Drummer, Paris Move, and Contemporary Fusion, among others. In 2025, the José Luiz Martins quartet won the prestigious DCJazzPrix at the DC JazzFest.

Hailed as a ‘prodigiously gifted composer and virtuoso pianist,’ James Fernando leads his dynamic Philly-based jazz trio with a refreshing take on the piano trio format. Known for their deep musical chemistry and engaging interplay, the trio crafts a joyful and exhilarating journey for listeners. Steeped in the tradition of jazz greats, they deliver a sound that is both familiar and forward-thinking, breathing new life into the art form.