Bio

José Fernando Solares is a Mexican improviser, saxophonist, composer, and sound artist based in NYC. He explores improvisation beyond listening, delving into the perception of time-space and existing in multiple realities. Trained in Classical Saxophone Performance, José's musicality extends to genres like ska, rock, reggae, jazz, contemporary music, and free improvisation, as well as interdisciplinary projects.

José has performed with renowned ensembles such as Wilfrido Terrazas Sea Quintet, Burnt Sugar Arkestra, La Covacha Big Band, and Bucéfalo. His participation in esteemed events includes Heather Kravas and Victoria Haven: solid objects/VOIDS at Walker Art Center (2022), Afrofuturism Festival 2022 at Carnegie Hall, and the Ensenada's New Music Festival (Neofonia FMNE) from 2019 to 2022, among others.

Collaborating with notable artists like Zeena Parkins, Tomeka Reid, and James Fei, José's talent earned him the prestigious FONCA-CONACYT scholarship for graduate studies abroad in 2021. Recently completing his MFA in Music Performance and Literature with a focus on Improvisation at Mills College, José now curates the Neofonia New Music festival in Ensenada, Mexico.