Rene Orth is a composer that "breaks new ground" (Opera News), writing music described as “...always dramatic, reflective, rarely predictable, and often electronic” (Musical America). Her music focuses on dramatic and lyrical storytelling, and she takes a keen interest in blending electronic soundscapes and beats with acoustic music. She recently completed her three-year tenure as Composer-in-Residence for Opera Philadelphia and will be in the inaugural Resident Composer at Opera San Jose for the 2022-2023 season. 

Recent and upcoming commissions include works for Opera Philadelphia, Mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke, Del Sol Quartet, and Bass-baritone Zachary James. Her work has been performed by a variety of opera companies and orchestras, including Berkeley Symphony, Louisville Orchestra, Summerville Orchestra, New World Symphony, Julliard Youth Symphony, Festival d’Aix en Provence, Fort Worth Opera, and Washington National Opera, and Curtis Opera Theater. She has collaborated with notable artists and ensembles such as the Del Sol, Dover and Aizuri Quartets, Fifth House Ensemble, Countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo, Mezzo-Sopranos Daniela Mack Shrader and Blythe Gaissert, Seraph Brass, Rock School of Dance, and Pennsylvania Ballet.