Composer and cellist Rubin Kodheli (ko-thé-lee) is a celebrated young creative rebel. The inspirational tapestry of his work is woven from blended threads of rock, jazz and classical influences, a stylistic trademark that has afforded Kodheli a highly diverse and eclectic career. From his compositions appearing in mainstream feature films such as Precious (2009), to his genre-transcending original symphonic rock compositions, to his collaborations as a performer with premier composers of our time, including Dave Douglas, Henry Threadgill, Meredith Monk, and Tom Harrell. Kodheli’s work is an intriguing sonic collage that enraptures and captivates its listeners.

Creating instrumental alchemy in his compositions and performances, Kodheli deftly molds the cello to emulate the timbre of a guitar, a drum, or a human voice. His compositions teem with nuance, providing the opportunity to listen repeatedly, each time ripe with the possibility of hearing something that previously went unnoticed. Immersing audiences in honest musical explorations, Kodheli pushes listeners to engage, question and contemplate.

Kodheli began his musical journey as a composer and cellist in Albania, where, as a child, he would stay up all night, fascinated by the celebratory performances of traditional Albanian folk music as well as attending many rehearsals of his mother singer/actress Justina Aliaj (a-lee-i). He later moved to Beligum to pursue formal studies at l'Académie d'Uccle and later in Germany at the Richard Strauss Konservatorium. Mr. Kodheli graduated from The Juilliard School in New York City, in where he was a pupil of Fred Sherry.

All of these unique musical experiences, from childhood to the present, have continually influenced and molded his work with dancers, choreographers, fellow composers, filmmakers and various other creative professionals in New York City, and around the world.