Music

A 2024 and 2025 quarterfinalist for Grammy® Educator of the Year and TEDx speaker, Javier Arau is a celebrated author, saxophonist and composer with a wide body of work. He conducts the Javier Arau Jazz Orchestra and also has written for contemporary classical orchestras and chamber ensembles, for film/multimedia, musical theatre, children's music, and more.

Javier Arau Jazz Orchestra

Saxophone Performance ›

Film Music

Other Projects ›

Books and Research

Javier Arau's research in jazz improvisation, music theory and pedagogy is extensive. His current work focuses on linear melodic development in jazz.

Augmented Scale Theory

Anatomy of a Melody

365 Thirds Book

Public Speaking

Javier Arau delivered his first TED Talk at TEDxCUNY in 2025 in New York City, the largest TEDx conference in the world. A two-time quarterfinalist for Grammy® Educator Award, Javier has served as a clinician and speaker at conventions around the country. He has lectured for band directors, public and private schools, school assemblies, and corporate events.  As a consultant, he has served on grant panels, adjudication boards, and more. 

View More ›