Here's what is being said about Dr. Iván Enrique Rodríguez ....
“So did Iván Rodríguez’s A Metaphor for Power. Written in 2018, the piece is a response, in part, to the Puerto Rico-born composer’s experiences with racial discrimination. Taking its title from James Baldwin, the score proceeds, in Baldwin-esque fashion, to offer an eloquent, incisive critique of Western musical conventions, in the process deconstructing a couple of familiar, patriotic songs (“My Country ‘tis of Thee” and “The Star-Spangled Banner”).
Nothing veers too far afield: Rodríguez’s writing here is broadly lyrical and, harmonically, not overly acerbic; no extended techniques are to be found (though members of the orchestra do freely chant phrases – i.e. “let freedom ring” – at a couple of points). But he clearly has a strong feeling for musical drama, juxtaposing violent, tumultuous figures with episodes of spare, songful reflection and, at a couple of points, clearing out orchestral textures in a manner worthy of Mahler. Sunday’s performance was vigorous in those bold moments and warmly secure in the exposed ones.”
“Finally, 20-something composer Iván Enrique Rodríguez offers A Metaphor for Power, his essay on struggle, survival and the Latinx experience in America. It packs a world of emotion: turbulence, love, pain—and interior musings summed up by a plaintive solo trumpet. The work’s title alludes to a statement by novelist James Baldwin, who had much to say about the role of art in society: “Artists are here to disturb the peace. They have to disturb the peace. Otherwise, chaos.””
“One of Puerto Rico’s greatest composers…and One of Latin-America’s most promising young composers…”
“Thank you for taking the time to send us ‘El Abrigo Negro’ for our consideration .... We like how you strike a great balance between audience accessible harmony and melody and a good sense of structure, and yet also an exploration of what I’d reluctantly describe as ‘modern.’ Its the best of both worlds! ”
“Rodríguez’ musical creativity is capable of merging, mixing and creating the unimaginable and extraordinary.”
“Iván is a pleasure to work with, as he possesses a delightful personality and professionalism that stood out among his peers. I am grateful to have been part of his career journey and look forward of hearing of his future success.”
“Iván’s composing and conducting technique, musicality, eloquence, sensibility, meticulousness, perfectionism, and attention to detail overpass any amount of years of experience. His energy at the podium is extremely contagious, [and] his finesse also makes him an excellent and balanced conductor and composer. His extended musical knowledge is a wonder due to his young age and his remarkable use of it on the podium is astonishing.”
“Sólo dos luces alumbraban el escenario cuando el Conjunto Piazzolla, bajo la batuta del Maestro Iván Enrique Rodríguez interpretó un magistral arreglo del tango Adios Nonino del joven en honor a la memoria de Ricardo. La interpretación fue exacta, precisa, llena de intensidad y pasión que reflejaban las horas de esfuerzo y sacrificio que los jóvenes músicos que forman parte de la agrupación invirtieron para logarlo.”
“Only two lights shined on the stage when the Piazzolla Ensemble, under the baton of Maestro Iván Enrique Rodríguez, performed a masterful arrangement of Piazzolla’s tango Adios Nonino, done by Rodríguez in memory of Ricardo. The interpretation was exact, precise, full of intensity and passion which reflected the hours of effort and sacrifice that the young musicians members of the ensemble invested to achieve it.”
“Bravo Iván Enroque Rodríguez por tu trabajo esta noche. Tienes el carisma escénico y el poder de inspirar a los músicos. Eso es lo más importante... Espero poderte escuchar algún día dirigir la Segunda Sinfonía de Gustav Mahler... No me puedo morir sin verte dirigirla.”
”Bravo Iván Enrique Rodríguez for this night’s work. You have the charisma and power to inspire the musicians. That is the most important thing.... I hope to see you conduct Gustav Mahler’s Second Symphony some day...I can’t die without seeing you conduct it. ”
“Iván Enrique Rodríguez belongs to one of the most talented colleagues I have ever met in my twenty-seven years of experience. He is an honest, enthusiastic, tireless worker who is consistent, and has very good humor and is highly responsible.”