James Romig

James Romig (b. 1971) composes solo, chamber, and large ensemble works that have been performed throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. He holds degrees from Rutgers University (PhD) and the University of Iowa (MM, BM). Compositional studies with Charles Wuorinen instilled in his musical aesthetic a deep regard for iterative structure and self-similar form, while theoretical studies with Milton Babbitt reinforced the notion of multi-level correlation of rhythm and pitch. Interaction with the natural world through hiking and photography has engendered an interest in fractals and chaotic systems, while influences as diverse as Paul Klee, Brian Ferneyhough, and Haruki Murakami have inspired the creation of multivalent artworks that provide performers and audiences with numerous potential cognitive pathways and manners of appreciation. Recent guest-composer visits include Northwestern University, Columbia University, the Cincinnati Conservatory, Juilliard, the American Academy in Rome, and Petrified Forest National Park. He is associate professor at Western Illinois University.