Richard Padrón is a Cuban born composer and guitarist known for his versatility, virtuosity and ability to blend in with almost any ensemble across a wide variety of genres. He has strong Afro-Cuban roots that color his compositions while still retaining his own identity as composer. His music has been described as deceptively simple and easy on the ear, yet pulling you in with it’s complex harmonies and deceptively simple melodies.
He began playing guitar at age 12 and studied privately until age 20. Some of his most notable guitar instructors include Dr. Michael Di Liddo, Lindsey Blair and Jose Elias. Within this time he also picked up the clarinet and electric bass as well as marching band snare drum. His musical career took a turn for the better after being accepted to the prestigious conservatory New World School of the Arts in Miami, at age 16. Here he was able to really focus on just playing guitar and composition. Before graduating from High School, Richard was already a part of the professional music scene in Miami working with players twice his age. Including jazz legends like the great Ira Sullivan and Othello Molineaux. During this time Richard had the incredible opportunity to study under Michael Gerber, an acclaimed pianist that performed and recorded with Jaco Pastorious.
In the words of the great Paquito D’Rivera, “Richard Padrón, on electric and acoustic guitars, writes music in a very particular way, using unusual melodic, rhythmic and harmonic approaches. His guitar playing is compelling, powerful and passionate.” As a composer, Richard has a growing reputation as the go-to man for film scoring within the Indie scene – having scored 4 independent short films in the past year alone. His ability to compellingly capture a story through music crosses all genres, but maintains his unique essence. He records and mixes all of his music in his home project studio. Currently he is working on his second album due for release this year. Richard currently resides in Miami working as a freelance guitarist and composer.
