Javier José Mendoza

Javier José Mendoza is a conductor and artistic director known for his work with the Chicago Arts Orchestra (CAO). He focuses on reviving and re-premiering forgotten baroque and galant music from 18th-century Latin America, especially from the viceregal period in Mexico, Guatemala, and Spain. Mendoza has led the CAO to significant acclaim, including the “Professional Orchestra of the Year” award by The Illinois Council of Orchestras in 2014, and has taken the orchestra on international tours, notably performing in major venues in Mexico City. He also serves as an assistant professor and conductor of the FIU Symphony Orchestra, highlighting his academic contributions to classical music and musicology.

His projects often involve collaboration with distinguished vocalists and musicians, and he is active in educating audiences about historically neglected Latin American repertoires through recordings such as *El cielo y sus estrellas* and *Al combate*, both available internationally through labels like Navona Records and NAXOS. Mendoza's work bridges historical research, performance, and education, aiming to bring these hidden musical treasures back into contemporary awareness.

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