Xavier Perez is an award winning saxophonist. Born in Miami in 1978 by Cuban parents and thus represents two cultures in his musical life. He was recently named the runner-up of the 2003 Montreux Jazz Festival International Saxophone Competition and, in 2001 was named the winner of the Downbeat Magazine Collegiate Soloist Competition. He has performed in 13 countries at venues including Blue Note, Jazz Alley and Ryles to name a few. In 2002 Xavier toured extensively with the Maynard Ferguson Be-Bop Nuevo Band; he has also performed with Dianne Schure, Arturo Sandoval, Dave Liebmean, Randy Brecker, George Garzone, Geri Allen, Jon faddis, Tito Puente Jr. and the Temptations among others. In addition to his performance accomplishments, Xavier holds a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Music and Jazz from the University of Miami where he studied with such notables as Maria Schnieder, Gary Burton, Dave Liebman and Curtis Fuller.