Jazz Saxophonist, Composer & Educator
Avi Rafael is a California-based jazz saxophonist, composer, arranger, and educator, currently living in Los Angeles. Born and raised in Tel Aviv, Israel, Avi grew up in a musical family where his passion for music was nurtured from an early age. He began playing at the age of 6, started clarinet at 8, and later found his true voice in the saxophone.
Avi studied at the Rimon School of Jazz and Contemporary Music, where he learned from and performed alongside some of the most influential figures in the Israeli jazz scene, including Mordy Ferber, Matan Chapnizky, Ronen Shmueli, Yonatan Voltzok, Amikam Kimelman, Guri Agmon, and Hagai Amir.
His dedication and talent earned him a prestigious scholarship at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. There, Avi studied with legends such as George Garzone, Tia Fuller, Dino Govoni, Ayn Inserto, Terence Blanchard, and Phil Wilson. He graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2018, receiving his Bachelor of Music degree.
Since 2009, Avi Rafael has performed extensively with his own ensembles and as a collaborator with leading musicians. His performances span Israel, Europe, and the U.S., including many of the most prestigious music venues:
In addition to leading his own projects such as the Avi Rafael Fusion Program and the Avi Rafael Quartet, he has toured internationally with ensembles including Heathens, Just the Way You Are (led by David Krivoshey), and Moments Band International.
He has also shared the stage with world-renowned artists such as:
Avi’s music is deeply rooted in jazz while embracing modern fusion, improvisation, and cross-cultural influences. His sound reflects both technical mastery and emotional storytelling, creating a unique experience for audiences worldwide.
Now based in Los Angeles, Avi continues to perform, compose, and arrange while also teaching and mentoring the next generation of musicians. He remains dedicated to bringing authentic jazz experiences to concert halls, festivals, and private events across the globe.
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