about me

Hi! I'm Joseph Rivero. I'm a teacher, pianist and worship musician based in Jacksonville, FL, with experience spanning concert, church, and studio settings. My work draws on classical, jazz, and faith-centered traditions, blending these influences in both performance and instruction. 

My musical journey first began by starting piano at age five. I studied under mentors including the late Dr. Richard Lopez and jazz pianist Robert Mason, as well as trumpet with Joshua Decker and Jim Daniels. By age fourteen, I began performing paid jazz gigs at local venues, gaining early experience in professional settings and quickly learning music was something I loved.

My journey then led me to the award-winning Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, where I was a member of the Wind Symphony, Jazz Ensemble I, and Jazz Combo. During this time, I performed in various festivals, concerts, and competitions, including All-State ensembles, DownBeat Student Awards, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, and the JEN Conference.

More recently, I’ve had the privilege of playing piano in church settings, serving alongside established Christian leaders such as Gabriel Storm and Andrew Aggrey. These experiences have shaped my playing into something expressive, personal, and rooted in leading others through music.

I currently teach a thriving group of piano and trumpet students while continuing my Worship Arts studies at Southeastern University. My teaching combines structure and creativity, helping students grow in technique, confidence, and focus while discovering the joy of music as a gift from God.