Ben Justis

Ben Justis is Assistant Professor of Music and Chair of Music at Western Colorado University's School of the Arts, where he teaches composition, music theory, percussion, and music technology. He holds a DMA in Music Composition from the University of Kansas (2019), an M.M. in Percussion Performance from Colorado State University (2016), and a BME in Music Education from Colorado State University (2013).

Research Interests: Ben's work explores the intersection of composition, performance, and technology, with a focus on neotonality, sonic textures, and rhythmic innovation. He engages in interdisciplinary collaborations across film, advertising, and digital media, alongside arranging for diverse ensembles like marching bands and steel bands.

Awards & Honors:

• Artist-in-Residence at Denali National Park, Homestead National Monument, and Glacier National Park
• Back-to-back winner of the CSU Concerto Competition

Professional Activities: Ben produces educational content via the YouTube channel Percussion Methods and operates Quigley Records at Western Colorado University, supporting local artists. He conducts contemporary ensembles and maintains affiliations with the Percussive Arts Society, Society of Composers, Inc., and Pi Kappa Lambda.