Xander Naylor

Xander Naylor is an American guitarist and composer known for his globally influenced sound and distinctive compositional voice. Blending elements of jazz, rock, and Indian classical music, Naylor creates what Rolling Stone has described as “that signature Naylor sound.” Since 2008, Naylor has studied the music of India with tabla maestro Samir Chatterjee, working to adapt the sounds and techniques of North Indian Hindustani classical music to the guitar while integrating them into contemporary Western musical forms. Naylor strives to create music that is not only heard, but deeply felt. With a focus on sound and vibration as modes of expression, connection, and healing, his work seeks to inspire openness, presence, and a sense of shared humanity. Rooted in a deep study of both Eastern and Western traditions, Naylor’s music reflects a personal spiritual and artistic journey that has taken him to concerts and festivals around the world, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival (Canada), Umbria Jazz Festival (Italy), NH7 Weekender (India), Central Park SummerStage, Lincoln Center, the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, and the opening night of the Perelman Performing Arts Center. Along the way, he has shared the stage with artists including Angélique Kidjo and Laurie Anderson. In addition to leading his own projects, Cross Stitch and Breathwork, Naylor regularly performs with New York-based ensembles Mwenso and the Shakes and The Sound of (Black) Music.