ABOUT

James Krom is a composer and pianist from Latrobe, Pennsylvania. He mainly composes concert works, with a focus on storytelling and exploring the interaction between compositional process and narrative in instrumental and vocal music.

James’ notable premieres include Night Ride Before a Duel for symphony orchestra (Vidin Sinfonietta, Bulgaria, Summer 2023), Alleluia for concert choir (CUA University Singers, D.C, Spring 2024), Prayer of St. Francis for chamber orchestra (CUA Chamber Orchestra, D.C, Fall 2024), and Scherzo & Adagio for symphony orchestra (CMU Philharmonic, PA, Spring 2026).

James’ recent compositions include For Once, Then, Something for tenor and piano (which sets poetry of Robert Frost in contemplation of humanity’s search for meaning), Circus Dream for reed organ (written for the 2026 Reed Organ Society gathering), Prompt Suite no. 2 for solo piano (a collection of short character pieces inspired by Vincent Persichetti’s compositional prompts), and The Father Speaks for euphonium, cello, and piano (a quotation-heavy depiction of Franz Joseph Haydn speaking from beyond the grave). His current projects include Chestnut Suite for wind ensemble, inspired by childhood memories, and The Yeti Operetti, an operetta with text by librettist Roger Porres.

James earned a Bachelor of Music degree in composition from The Catholic University of America, where he studied under Dr. Stephen Gorbos, Dr. Andrew E. Simpson, Dr. Joel Friedmann, and JoAnne Harris, and a Master of Music degree in composition from Carnegie Mellon University, where he studied under Dr. Nancy Galbraith. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in composition at the University of Georgia, where he studies under Dr. Emily Koh.

You can enjoy or critique many of James’ compositions on his website (www.jameskrom.com) or YouTube channel (@James_Krom).