Rafa Fernandez

Rafa Fernandez is a Mexican guitarist originally from Xalapa whose musical approach is built from exploration, identity, and emotional connection through sound. He began his training at an early age within the State Children's and Youth Symphony Orchestra, where he had his first presentations and stage experiences, developing a close relationship with live music.

During his adolescence, he was part of different school bands focused on the rock repertoire, a stage in which he consolidated his interest in the electric guitar. At the age of 16 he entered the preparatory courses of JazzUV, where he expanded his musical language through jazz, participating in formats ranging from small ensembles to big band, in addition to joining the dynamics of jam sessions that marked his development as an improviser.

His training in Xalapa, a city with a strong cultural identity, led him to also delve into traditional Mexican music, particularly son jarocho and bolero, finding inspiration in the requinto and in figures such as Gilberto Puente, while maintaining the influence of rock that defined his early years as a musician.

Far from being pigeonholed into a single genre, Rafa Fernandez builds his proposal from the conscious fusion of his influences, understanding music as a language in constant transformation. His current project reflects this vision, integrating different styles with a focus on improvisation, reinterpretation, and creating authentic musical experiences.

He is currently developing original material and seeks to take his proposal to festivals and international stages, with the intention of sharing an honest vision of music: a tool to communicate, connect and accompany different moments of life.