rocío sánchez (b. 1996) is a Mexican cellist, composer, improviser, and educator whose work bridges composition, field recordings, virtual animation, and collage. Their music explores the rich sonority of the cello, aiming to expand the instrument’s color by preparing it with recycled materials. sánchez’s sound world spans from the manipulation of the prepared cello, adapting it into a unique instrument that morphs throughout the performance—from soft kalimba-like tones to static, roaring wails created through the manipulation of VHS tape. Their work has been presented at Klangspuren Festival (AT), the Darmstadt Summer Courses (DE), Red Ecología Acústica México (MX), Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC RPI), Carnegie Hall, Roulette Intermedium, the Americas Society/Council of the Americas, The P.I.T. (Property Is Theft, NYC), among others. They have also been a visiting artist at the California Institute of the Arts and the University of California San Diego where they have premiered solo and ensemble programs. rocío is humbled to have collaborated with Matana Roberts, Pamela Z, Frank Gratkowski, James Ilgenfritz, gabby fluke-mogul, Wilfrido Terrazas, Kyle Motl, Laura Cocks, Kennet Jimenez, Drew Wesely, Madison Greenstone, Orchid McRae, Angelika Niescier, Gerry Hemingway among many others. sánchez received a BM from UABC México and a MM from SUNY Purchase College.

 

rocío is currently based in Lenapehoking, or New York City, and is a 2026 Artist-in-Residence at ISSUE Project Room.They divide their practice between New York City and Mexico, focusing on performer-composer approaches and cello pedagogy.