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Joseph Hernandez is a jazz musician, composer, and educator based in Austin, Texas. His work centers on performance, composition, and arranging, blending traditional jazz language with contemporary influences. Recognized by DownBeat Magazine, Joseph has established himself as an active performer and composer within the Texas music community.

As a performer, Joseph has had the opportunity to work and perform alongside acclaimed artists including Branford Marsalis, Etienne Charles, and Peter Bernstein. He is an active gigging musician in Austin, regularly performing at venues such as the Elephant Room, Monk’s Jazz Club, Nica on 4th, and numerous other clubs and concert spaces throughout the city. His performing experience ranges from intimate jazz clubs and small ensembles to large groups and concert productions, giving him a broad perspective on musicianship and performance.

As a composer and arranger, Joseph has written music for a variety of ensembles and projects, including a commissioned arrangement for the Miles Davis Centennial Concert at Houston Christian University’s Dunham Theater, featuring guest soloists Marquis Hill and Summer Camargo. His work draws from a deep knowledge of the jazz tradition while incorporating contemporary harmonic, rhythmic, and orchestral influences.

As an educator, Joseph strives to help students become confident, well-rounded musicians. His lessons emphasize developing a strong ear, understanding fundamental musical concepts, building technique, and learning to express themselves creatively through their instrument. While his background is rooted in jazz, Joseph works with students across a variety of musical interests and experience levels, adapting his approach to meet each student’s individual goals. He believes that learning music should be both challenging and rewarding, and aims to give students the skills and confidence to become independent musicians.