José Rojas teaches piano and harpsichord in Merced, CA and Monterey, CA. His passion is to see his students succeed. José Rojas is a passionate musician whose life has been shaped by a profound commitment to both music and personal growth. His journey with the piano began at the age of seven, sparked by a love for the instrument and a transformative moment when he first heard Tartini’s, Violin Sonata in G minor, the “Devil’s Trill” Concerto. The piece’s complexity, with its rapid trills, double-stop passages, and dramatic shifts between intensity and lyrical beauty, captivated him completely. The way the music seemed to embody both struggle and triumph, passion and precision, left an indelible mark on José, sparking his love for classical music and inspiring him to dedicate himself to mastering the piano with the same expressive power. As a young pianist, José participated in numerous competitions throughout the Central Valley, showcasing his talent and dedication. One of his most formative early experiences was attending CSU Stanislaus’ Summer Music at Stanislaus, where he refined his skills and immersed himself in a community of like-minded musicians.
Raised in Merced County, José’s musical talent was evident from a young age. Throughout his elementary, junior high, and high school years, he served as a piano accompanist to the chorus, Jazz ensemble, and theatre club, supporting school productions and honing his collaborative skills. His dedication continued at the University of California, Merced, where from 2008 to 2012, he worked as a Chorus accompanist, blending his passion for performance with a commitment to helping fellow musicians thrive.
In 2012, José embarked on a transformative chapter of his life by moving to Japan, where he embraced a new cultural experience while working as a Patent Agent for TMI Associates, an international intellectual property law firm in downtown Tokyo. This role allowed him to delve into global intellectual property matters, particularly in one notable project surrounding the robot, Robohon, while living in a vibrant and dynamic environment. His time in Japan not only enriched his professional life but also introduced him to diverse musical traditions, broadening his artistic perspective. During his years abroad, José became business fluent in Japanese, complementing his proficiency in English and Spanish.
Upon returning to the United States, José pursued a career in Estate Planning and Estate Litigation, channeling his analytical skills into helping clients navigate estate planning, trust administration and probate matters. While his professional path led him into the legal field, his passion for music remained unwavering. José continues to perform actively with orchestras throughout California, showcasing his versatility as both a solo and ensemble pianist. Notably, he performs with the Topanga Symphony, New West Symphony, San Luis Obispo Symphony, Santa Cruz Symphony, where his expressive playing and technical prowess are celebrated by audiences and fellow musicians alike.
José is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music (B.M.) degree in Piano Performance with an emphasis in Music Theory at California State University, Stanislaus. This academic journey reflects his ongoing dedication to deepening his understanding of music and refining his performance techniques. Despite his professional commitments, he remains an active and vibrant part of the state’s classical music community. In addition to performing, José teaches intermediate and advance piano, sharing his love of music with students of all ages. Balancing his dual passions for music and professional development, José Rojas embodies the idea that life can be a harmonious blend of personal fulfillment and professional success. Through his dedication to both his career and his craft, he continues to inspire those around him, proving that pursuing multiple paths can lead to a richer, more dynamic life.
