About

I’m Rolando J. Gómez (b. 2001), a composer, tresero, lyricist, and music educator from Miami, Florida. My music blends Cuban, Jazz, Classical, and European Modernist traditions. I earned my degree in music composition from Oberlin Conservatory, where I studied with Stephen Hartke, Jihyun Kim, and Jesse Jones, and minored in TIMARA (Technology in Music and Related Arts). I also completed my master’s at Syracuse University, where I studied with Natalie Draper, Loren Loiacono, and Nicolas Scherzinger, and worked as a teaching assistant in music theory.

My work spans solo and chamber music, art songs—both humorous and heartfelt—and pieces involving electronics. A central part of my practice is the Cuban tres, a traditional string instrument that reflects my heritage. I’m currently focused on developing a repertoire for the tres through original compositions, pedagogical studies, and collaborations with emerging composers.

As a teacher, I’m passionate about introducing younger generations to Cuban musical traditions. Through projects like the New Canon Project, I write music for student ensembles that incorporates Cuban grooves and rhythms. My music has been recognized by The American Prize, the Society of New Music, and Tribeca New Music.