Felix Antonio Nolasco
Félix Antonio Nolasco, born in Puerto Plata, rose to prominence as a saxophone professor in NYC. His journey from Caribbean roots to musical acclaim is a story of love and triumph.
By CUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Based on research by Vivian Guerrero Aquino for CUNY DSI’s Ellis Island Project, documenting Dominican immigrant arrivals and stories.
Felix Antonio Nolasco Dominican Saxophonist (Unknown) by UnkonwnCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Born under the warm Caribbean sun in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, on June 15, 1894, was a young man named Felix Antonio Nolasco.
He was the older son of Félix María Nolasco, the editor-in-chief of the Dominican newspaper Listín Diario, one of the most important newspapers in the country. His father was a great source of support, always encouraging him to pursue his artistic inspirations.
Felix Antonio Nolasco US Declaration of Intention (1918-01-30) by Alex Gilchrist, Jr. Clerk at The U.S. Department of LaborCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Félix and Cecilia's journey begins
Félix Antonio Nolasco married Cecilia in Puerto Rico before moving to NYC in 1916. She followed him soon after, marking the start of their shared American life centered around love and music.
Cecilia Nolasco, formerly Cecilia Rivera, was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, on February 1, 1890. She was his life partner.
Based on the census data and his application for U.S. citizenship, she did not have a profession.
Félix Antonio Nolasco in Listin Diario (1928-05) by Listin DiarioCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Dominicano que triunfa en EEUU- Listin Diario
Translation: Dominican that succeeds in the United States
A proud announcement in the May 1928 Listín Diario celebrated a Dominican's impressive achievement: "We note with true satisfaction that young Félix Antonio Nolasco, who has resided in the United States for over twelve years, dedicated to music, has just achieved a remarkable triumph in the great metropolis, as he has been appointed Professor of Saxophone at the accredited City School for Music."
Felix Antonio Nolasco and wife Cecilia US Census (1930) by Department of Commerce - Bureau of the CensusCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Félix Nolasco: a musician in Manhattan
Félix Antonio Nolasco and his wife Cecilia were living in Manhattan by 1930. Félix continued to work as a musician, maintaining his profession in the city. See Line 60.
Felix Antonio Nolasco Bronx US Census (1940-04-06) by Department of Commerce - Bureau of the CensusCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Felix's world was a vibrant symphony, harmonized by his passion for music and the unwavering presence of his beloved wife, Cecilia!
By 1940, their journey had led them to the bustling borough of the Bronx, New York.
See line 51.
Parkchester Housing, Bronx by Alfred EisenstaedtLIFE Photo Collection
Parkchester Housing, Bronx, Alfred Eisenstaedt, From the collection of: LIFE Photo Collection
In the Bronx, Felix Antonio Nolasco immersed himself in music, working at the Public Library as a meticulous copyist, preparing scores that brought melodies to life for countless others. His enduring partnership of more than two decades reflected a life filled with love, artistry, and dedication. Beyond his personal journey, Nolasco’s remarkable legacy as a prominent saxophone professor shaped and inspired generations, ensuring his influence lives on in Dominican and global music history.
Based on research by Vivian Guerrero Aquino for CUNY DSI’s Ellis Island Project, documenting Dominican immigrant arrivals and stories.
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