Felipe Salles

Felipe Salles is a Professor of Jazz and African American Music Studies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst since 2010. He holds a Doctorate in Jazz Arts Advancement from Manhattan School of Music and advanced degrees from New England Conservatory. His research and artistic work focus on jazz composition, multicultural fusion, and immigration narratives.

Salles leads the Interconnections Ensemble and has released over ten acclaimed albums, including Home is Here (2023), exploring immigrant experiences through music. He has earned prestigious awards like the 2018 Guggenheim Fellowship and has collaborated with global artists such as Paquito D’Rivera and Lionel Loueke. His compositions blend Brazilian, African, and classical influences, performed by top ensembles like the Metropole Orchestra.

• Education:
  • Masters in Jazz Performance, New England Conservatory
  • Doctorate in Jazz Arts Advancement, Manhattan School of Music
• Grants & Awards:
  • 2021 South Arts Jazz Road Grant
  • 2005-2006 Chamber Music America Grant
  • 2001 Concurso SGAE de Jazz ‘TETE MONTOLIU’ First Place

Salles’ discography reflects thematic depth, from The New Immigrant Experience (2020) to Ugandan Suite (2014), showcasing his ability to merge cultural narratives with musical innovation. His teaching emphasizes jazz’s global identity and interdisciplinary creativity.