Oscar Hernandez

Oscar Hernandez, a prominent civil rights activist, championed farm workers' rights through the United Farm Workers movement, leading boycotts and strikes that garnered national support for improved wages and working conditions.

Composer

March 22, 1954

71

Oscar Hernandez, born on August 15, 1974, in Havana, Cuba, is a renowned composer, pianist, and arranger who has made significant contributions to the worlds of salsa and Latin jazz. His musical journey began at an early age, nurtured by his family’s recognition of his exceptional talent.

Hernandez’s formal education at the prestigious Instituto Superior de Arte in Havana laid the foundation for his remarkable career. His compositions seamlessly blend classical, jazz, and Latin influences, captivating audiences worldwide. His works have been performed by renowned orchestras and featured in prestigious concert halls, including Carnegie Hall and the Royal Albert Hall.

One of Hernandez’s crowning achievements is his critically acclaimed composition, “Danzón Cubano,” which premiered at the Lincoln Center in New York City. This vibrant fusion of Cuban rhythms and classical orchestration garnered widespread praise and recognition.

Hernandez’s exceptional talent has been celebrated through numerous prestigious awards, including the Latin Grammy Award for Best Classical Composition, the Guggenheim Fellowship, and the National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship. Despite his international acclaim, he remains grounded and dedicated to his craft, residing in New York City with his family.

Hernandez’s passion extends beyond his own music, as he actively promotes music education and fosters a love for the arts in younger generations. His humble and approachable nature endears him to music enthusiasts and aspiring composers alike.

Throughout his illustrious career, Hernandez has collaborated with renowned artists from various genres, including jazz legends Wynton Marsalis and Chucho Valdés. His music has graced both the concert stage and the silver screen, featured in popular films and television shows such as “Breaking Bad.”

Oscar Hernandez Composer continues to captivate audiences with his evocative compositions, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. His dedication to his craft and his ability to transcend musical boundaries have solidified his position as one of the most respected and influential composers of our time.