Javier A. Olondo

Javier A. Olondo is a Professor of Guitar and Director/Coordinator of the Guitar Department at Tulane University's Newcomb Department of Music (School of Liberal Arts). He holds an M.A. in Arts from the Mozarteum University in Salzburg, Austria. With a 30-year career, he is a renowned Cuban guitarist, producer, and artistic director of the New Orleans International Guitar Festival. He leads the Cuban band Javier Olondo & AsheSon and hosts the TV show Que Pasa TV. His work spans performances at major global festivals, three acclaimed albums, and world premieres of commissioned compositions.

Education:

• M.A., Hochschule für Musik und Darstellende Kunst 'Mozarteum,' Salzburg, Austria

Research & Artistic Focus: Cuban musical heritage, classical guitar performance, and cross-cultural musical collaborations. He bridges traditional and contemporary styles, emphasizing Latin American and Caribbean influences in his performances and pedagogy.

Awards:

• Guitarist of the Year (Global Excellence Awards)
• Big Easy Award for Best Latin Band
• Keys to the City of Kenner
• Honorary Citizen of New Orleans

Artistic Leadership: Directs the New Orleans International Guitar Festival and maintains an active touring schedule across the U.S. and Europe. His initiatives promote cultural exchange through music education programs and community engagement.

Publications & Media: Three critically-acclaimed albums, frequent TV/radio appearances, and collaborations with composers who create works exclusively for his performances.