Biography
Adrian Fernandez is a talented and promising violinist whose musical journey began in 5th grade when he started playing the viola at his public middle school. His transition to the violin came in 8th grade after his aunt gifted him an instrument from a local music store for his 13th birthday. Driven by curiosity and passion, Adrian taught himself as much as he could through school classes, as his family could not afford private lessons at the time.
It wasn’t until Adrian’s junior year of high school, after his mother took on a second job, that his family was able to invest in private violin lessons. He began studying under the distinguished Dutch violinist, pianist, and conductor Antoine van Dongen. With van Dongen’s mentorship and Adrian's unwavering dedication, his skills flourished.
Within a year, Adrian earned the co-concertmaster seat in his high school symphony orchestra. Encouraged by his success, he auditioned at several universities and ultimately enrolled at Chapman University, his top choice, as a violin performance major. There, he continued to refine his craft under the guidance of Professor William Fitzpatrick at the Hall-Musco Conservatory of Music. He also had the privilege of studying with renowned musicians Robert Becker and Chloe Tardif, and finished his studies with the Korean-American violinist Dr. So-Jin Kim in his last two years at Chapman University..
Adrian’s accomplishments include being endowed with the prestigious Temianka Violin and Bow and serving as First Violinist in the esteemed Temianka Quartet. He has also held the Concertmaster seat of the Chapman Orchestra for the 2022–2024 school years. He's also held the Assistant Concertmaster position at Southern Methodist University. As of 2025, he recently received a violin generously on loan from the Maestro Foundation.
Looking ahead, Adrian plans to continue his studies with world renowned violinist Alexander Sitkovetsky at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. Adrian aspires to build a multifaceted career as a chamber musician, soloist, and educator. His dedication to his art and commitment to sharing his knowledge position him as a rising star in the world of classical music. Soon after receiving his Masters of Music, he plans to further his education to receive a Doctorate in Music, Violin.
Awards
2025-Present
Maestro Foundation Loan
The Maestro Foundation lends high quality stringed instruments and bows to gifted young musicians during the most critical stage in their professional development. The Maestro Instrument Endowment Fund also encourages patrons of classical music to directly nurture and support emerging young artists and their craft.
2024-2026
Meadows Scholar
Meadows Scholars are among the most highly sought after students in the nation and receive competitive offers from institutions such as Harvard, Juilliard, and Oberlin.
2020-2024
Thurgood Marshall Scholar
The Thurgood Marshall Scholar is given to a student who shows skills and talents that help better support the community inside of the arts department. By showing the department such support, the award also supports the student in a financial stand point as a scholarship towards their academic field.
2020-2024
Temianka Scholar
A Temianka Scholar is given to those who show exponential talent amongst those in the conservatory. The scholar goes those who are willing to perform at a professional level both in their playing and in their academics. Because of their abilities and will power, they're allowed various opportunities throughout their educational career.
2022-2024
Temianka Violin and Bow
The Temianka Violin and Bow is given to a singular student who is a current Temianka Scholar. This student shows compassion, leadership, and flawless capabilities. As a recipient of this award, they're also given the opportunity to join the Temianka Quartet. This would also allow for said student to participate in various concerts and shows throughout the academic year.
2020-2024
Chapman Celebrates
Chapman offers several scholarships to students. The recipient of this award is proof of the talent that is brought to those who pursue some form of a performing arts degree. As well as, participates in the ensembles offered at Chapman University.
