Immunity: Joshua Roman

Immunity is an intimate musical exploration of cellist Joshua Roman’s life-altering, inspiring
experience of ongoing Long COVID. The program confronts the impact of the illness and
the limitations that nearly ended his career, progressing through a period of doubt, struggle,
refocus, and renewal. Culminating in a profound acceptance of self and a deeper
connection to what’s most important in life, the emotional journey perfectly combines
performance and storytelling.
Joshua Roman released Immunity in October 2024 on Bright Shiny Things. The album—his
first as a solo artist— has music ranging from J.S. Bach to George Crumb to Caroline
Shaw, as well as Roman’s own compositions. The works are woven into a narrative of the
most important moments over the last few years, as Roman has navigated the challenges
of chronic illness.
Since the album’s release, he has continued raising awareness of the condition and the
importance of finding strength in vulnerability through performances and speaking
engagements in the U.S. and abroad. Roman is set to launch a second musical project in
2026, building on the success and impact of Immunity.
In light of Roman’s aptitude, he has been acknowledged for his “effortlessly expressive
tone… and playful zest for exploration” (The New York Times), as well as his “extraordinary
technical and musical gifts" and “blend of precision and almost improvisatory freedom…
that goes straight to the heart" (The San Francisco Chronicle). His genre-bending programs
and wide-ranging collaborations have grown out of an “enthusiasm for musical evolution
that is as contagious as his love for the classics" (The Seattle Times).
"The response to Immunity and its message of the value of vulnerability in human
connection has been powerful and shaped many of the decisions I am making about the
future of my career. I am excited to share this message of solidarity and to connect with
other people living with Long COVID and their caregivers in a meaningful way, while
spreading joy and awareness,” shared Roman.