Hugo Antonio Miranda is a Mexican American composer and pianist dedicated to creating music that speaks to emotion, empathy, and human connection. His works range from intimate, neoclassical piano compositions to sweeping cinematic orchestral scores, reflecting his wide palette of influences. His music draws inspiration from Tchaikovsky, Chopin, Liszt, and modern voices such as Yiruma, Ludovico Einaudi, John Williams, Hans Zimmer, and John Barry. Through this blend, Hugo has developed a voice that is lyrical, emotional, and cinematic.

Born in College Station, Texas in 1996, Hugo spent much of his childhood in a small town in Pennsylvania before moving with his family to Mexico City at the age of nine. Both of his parents play the piano, and they introduced him to the instrument early on. At first, lessons did not capture his interest, but everything changed when, at age 14, he discovered a YouTube video of Mozart’s Turkish March. Determined to learn it, he quickly taught himself to read sheet music and master the piece. His parents, amazed by his rapid progress, encouraged him to audition for the National Conservatory of Music of Mexico, where he was accepted and studied piano for several years under Alfredo Isaac Aguilar. While in Mexico, he also participated in masterclasses with Naoya Seino. Later, upon returning to the United States at 19, he continued his studies with Clipper Erickson.

It was during these early years at the piano that Hugo discovered composition. Fascinated by the way different notes and dynamics could create emotions, he began writing music almost as soon as he began seriously playing. By the age of 18, he had already been invited abroad, performing his solo piano composition Dancing Flowers at the historic Palais Ehrbar in Vienna to warm reception. He also premiered many solo works as a student, beginning at the National Conservatory of Music of Mexico and later at recitals throughout his university years in the United States.

As a composer, Hugo’s works have been performed by school and professional ensembles. His Piano Quintet was performed at Rutgers University, and his music has also been played by the Helix New Music Ensemble and the Temple University New Music Ensemble. These experiences have cemented his role as a versatile composer capable of writing for both intimate and large-scale settings.

In 2024, Hugo received a major commission from award-winning mezzo-soprano Madison Marie McIntosh to compose an oratorio for four voices and piano. The piece, The Prodigal Son, premiered at Temple University in December of that year. While Hugo identifies as an agnostic atheist, he approached the story through its universal themes, writing music that emphasized compassion, empathy, and family values. For him, the work was about the human condition more than religious symbolism.

His academic journey included earning a Bachelor’s degree in music composition from Rutgers University and a Master’s degree in composition from Temple University, where he studied with composers such as Robert Aldridge, Melissa Dunphy, Matthew Greenbaum, Jan Krzywicki, Erin Busch, William Dougherty, and Mark Zaki. While his formal training often pushed him toward modernist and atonal approaches, Hugo has remained faithful to the neoclassical and cinematic styles that resonate most deeply with him, while incorporating the techniques he gained from diverse traditions.

His works have received recognition internationally, including 1st prize in the Caneres International Music Competition Vienna (2022), as well as honors from the Golden Key International and National Piano Composition Competitions and the IBLA Grand Prize.

Beyond composition, Hugo has taught piano, an experience that deeply shaped him. Teaching showed him the many different ways students learn and helped him grow more compassionate, patient, and attentive. These lessons carry over into the sensitivity of his music.

Hugo is also open about his personal journey. He is autistic and has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, anxiety, social anxiety, and misophonia. These experiences have shaped his outlook and artistic voice, fueling his passion for neurodivergence acceptance and mental health awareness. Through his music and story, he hopes to challenge stigma and foster empathy.

Outside of music, Hugo is a devoted vegan who cares deeply about animal rights and the environment. He is also a passionate soccer fan, following FC Barcelona and admiring Lionel Messi both as an athlete and as a source of inspiration for dedication and artistry.

For Hugo, music is not just an art form but a way of building bridges—between emotions, people, and worlds. It is at once a personal refuge and a universal language, one that he hopes can inspire compassion and reflection in every listener.

Listen to Hugo’s latest releases on Spotify and all streaming platforms!