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James Romig is a contemporary American composer known for his minimalist and experimental approach to classical music. Born on August 16, 1971, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Romig grew up in a musical family. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a classical pianist. Romig began playing the piano at a young age and showed an early interest in composition. Romig received his Bachelor of Music degree in composition from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1993. He then went on to earn his Master of Music degree in composition from Bowling Green State University in Ohio in 1995. During his time at Bowling Green, Romig studied with renowned composers such as Marilyn Shrude and Mikel Kuehn. After completing his studies, Romig moved to New York City, where he began to establish himself as a composer. He has since become a prominent figure in the contemporary classical music scene, with his works being performed by ensembles such as the New York New Music Ensemble, the Arditti Quartet, and the Da Capo Chamber Players. Romig's music is characterized by its minimalist and experimental approach. He often uses repetitive patterns and simple harmonic structures to create a sense of tension and release. His works also frequently incorporate extended techniques, such as bowing the strings of a piano or using unconventional playing techniques on traditional instruments. One of Romig's most notable works is his 2007 composition "Still," which was commissioned by the New York New Music Ensemble. The piece is a meditation on stillness and silence, with long periods of silence punctuated by sparse, delicate piano and string passages. The work has been praised for its haunting beauty and its ability to create a sense of stillness and contemplation in the listener. Another notable work by Romig is his 2010 composition "Diametrically Composed," which was commissioned by the Da Capo Chamber Players. The piece is a study in contrasts, with the ensemble divided into two groups that play contrasting musical material. The work has been praised for its intricate interplay between the two groups and its ability to create a sense of tension and release. In addition to his work as a composer, Romig is also a respected music educator. He has taught at a number of institutions, including the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Western Illinois University. He is currently a professor of music at Western Illinois University, where he teaches composition and music theory. Overall, James Romig is a composer who has made significant contributions to the contemporary classical music scene. His minimalist and experimental approach to composition has earned him a reputation as a unique and innovative voice in the field. With his continued work as a composer and educator, Romig is sure to remain a prominent figure in the world of classical music for years to come.

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