Richard Jimenez

Cello

Faculty since 2026

Bronx, New York

Richard Jimenez is a dynamic cellist and educator whose musical path is as diverse and multifaceted as his influences. Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, Jimenez’s early exposure to the vibrant world of hip-hop later led him to the transformative and intricate world of classical music from his high school orchestra teacher. This teacher put a cello and bow in Jimenez’s hand and he never looked back. His pursuit of excellence led him to earn a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from The College of Saint Rose where he studied with David Bebe and a Master’s degree in Cello Performance from Aaron Copland School of Music studying with Marcy Rosen. Richard Jimenez has built a reputation as a versatile and accomplished cellist, blending classical precision with contemporary energy. Other cello teachers include Rene Berman, Luke Krafka, Leland Ko, and Cora Swenson Lee.

Jimenez’s musical journey has led him to collaborate with some of the most respected names in music, including Andrea Casarrubios, Andrew McKenna Lee, and Rufus Reid. He was also a key member of Fat N’ Fancy, a septet that pairs a string quartet with a rhythm section fusing classical and jazz. A piece named Scene in Four Parts*, was composed for Jimenez by Andrew McKenna Lee, which premiered both in the U.S. and in Paris. Currently, Jimenez is part of Rush Hour, a cello-piano duo with Ching-Chia Lin whose name was inspired by the movie and recently held their debut recital in June 2026.

In addition to his career as a performer, Richard Jimenez has dedicated much of his life to music education, especially within underserved communities. He has worked with Opportunity Music Project, teaching beginning orchestra to students in the Bronx and other underserved areas. Through this initiative, Jimenez has helped foster a love of music in young minds, providing them with the skills and inspiration to pursue their own path. Jimenez also served as the beginning cello teacher and conductor for the ESYO Chime, which provided free instruments and musical education to underprivileged students. Currently, Jimenez is the music director and orchestra teacher at American Dream Charter School, where he continues to inspire and guide the next generation of musicians.