Denton Native Matthew Garcia Accepted into Juilliard's Master of Music Program
Matthew Garcia, a jazz saxophonist from Denton, is set to embark on a significant chapter of his musical journey as he prepares to join the Master of Music in Jazz Performance program at Juilliard. This prestigious institution is renowned for its rigorous selection process and commitment to excellence in the arts.
Garcia's path to this moment has been marked by dedication and an unwavering passion for music. "It requires you to give so much of yourself," he reflects. "It's beyond a hobby, it's beyond a passion, it's beyond a career. I think it's really part of who you are."
His love affair with jazz began at the tender age of 11 when he first picked up a saxophone. "When I made All-State Jazz my junior year of high school, that's when my parents were like, 'Oh, okay, you're serious,'" he recalls, noting that this achievement prompted them to invest in a new instrument for him.
This saxophone became his ticket to New York City, where he pursued a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance at NYU. Under the mentorship of esteemed musicians such as Ron McClure and Lenny White, Garcia cultivated his skills and established himself as a promising talent within the jazz community.
His time at NYU was marked by numerous accolades, including recognition as a YoungArts Finalist and performances with the JAS Academy Big Band led by Christian McBride. His combo's victory in the NYU Combo Competition also led to international touring opportunities.
Garcia has graced the stages of legendary venues like The Village Vanguard and Carnegie Hall, sharing performances with both established jazz legends and fellow emerging artists. "Oh, the talent's been there all along," said Emilio Mesa, who provided Garcia with private lessons. "It was a matter of just kind of gently nudging him in a direction that led him to realize that talent, to realize that potential."
As he prepares for his studies at Juilliard in fall 2025, Garcia reflects on the moment he learned of his acceptance: "I was sitting there refreshing it. I refreshed it, it came out, it was a big 'Congratulations.' It felt good to receive that validation— that people think I'm on the path to becoming what I want to become."
Currently back in Texas for the summer, Garcia is actively performing and teaching, giving back to the community that has supported his journey. His mission remains clear: to inspire the next generation of jazz artists while continuing to grow as a musician himself.
