WILLIAM HERNANDEZ is a passionate DMV native dedicated to making music accessible for all. As a first-generation American, his career is fueled by a mission to inspire through Latino representation. With a background in Music Education, Mr. Hernandez is a versatile freelance musician contributing to musical pit orchestras, international movie scores, and chamber groups in various locations, including Washington D.C., Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and California. Beyond his musical endeavors, Mr. Hernandez actively engages in artist advocacy, striving to uplift and expand the national network for underrepresented Latinos in Classical music.

​

William has played a role with Quinteto Latino, a Bay Area non-profit organization that advocates for and amplifies support for Latino musicians nationwide. Currently, Mr. Hernandez serves as a graduate assistant for the Mighty Sound of Maryland Marching Band and the UMD Pep Band at the University of Maryland, where he works extensively with student musicians, including the Maryland Horn Studio. Additionally, he is a part of the Horn Faculty at the George Mason Music Arts Academy, leading a French horn studio and mentoring young musicians.

​

As a dedicated performer, William has performed with notable ensembles including Accord Symphony (Washington D.C.), Center City Chamber Orchestra, Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra (Philadelphia), University of Maryland Symphony and Wind Orchestra, George Mason University Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, Capital Wind Symphony, and the Piedmont Symphony (Virginia), among many others. His theatrical credits in musical theater pit orchestras include The LittleMermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Sweeney Todd, and Crazy for You. His opera credits include Don Giovanni, The Pirates of Penzance, and Florencia en el Amazonas.

​

In addition to live performances, William has contributed to recording projects like The Hollywood Collection II and recorded with the Black PearlChamber Orchestra’s premier album. He participated in the Young Jeezy TrapMusic 101 20th Anniversary Tour as a member of the Color of Noize Orchestra with Derek Hodge.

​

William holds a Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Music Education from the University of Delaware, a Master of Music in French Horn Performance from the University of Maryland. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in French HornPerformance at the University of Maryland, College Park.

​

William was recognized with a “Music Excellence in French Horn Performance” award andthe “Best Mustache” award, reflecting his dedication and personality. He was apanelist at the Chamber Music America Festival in New York City, representingQuinteto Latino and advocating for the growth of Latino musicians in classicaland chamber music.

​

William’s teachers include Gregory Miller, Larry Williams, Dr. John David Smith, AmandaCollins, and Dr. Lauren Hunt.