Hello! I’m Duroje Gwamna, and welcome!

A lifelong Midwesterner circa February 5, 1988. I am a proud father and spouse, and perhaps the most insatiable Pokémon nerd you’d ever meet.

My love of music started before my first memory, my parents regaling me with painfully embarrassing lyrics to made-up songs I used to sing on long car rides. This evolved into playing trombone in school ensembles, and eventually diving headfirst into the world of music arranging and composition. I owe this to my wonderful high school band director James DePriest for igniting this passion.

I graduated in 2010 with a degree in Music Theory and Composition, studying under Dr. William S. Carson, Dr. Steve Shanley, Dr. Joseph Dangerfield, and Dr. Marc Falk. My time at Coe catalyzed my work on my craft, arranging music for ensembles, and introduced me to my second love, Sibelius Ultimate Edition.

I wouldn’t have had these opportunities if it weren’t for these individuals.

I’ve also played trombone in a few local ensembles, including the Coe College Concert Band, Soul Sherpa, Reggae Rapids, various community theatrical productions, and wailing away in a No Doubt Tribute band.

Outside of all things music, I work for the University of Iowa as an Application Developer (Go Hawks!), making constant culinary concoctions (Sarah hates those messes), trying to avoid inevitable collapse on my bike trainer, and chasing my hilarious son.

And, of course, there is always room for a little Pokémon.

Whether I’m writing music, playing trombone, building something, or just enjoying time with family, I’m grateful for the people and experiences that have brought me here.

Today, my compositional focus is on concert band works. My pieces are available through Randall Standridge Music and JW Pepper, and here!