Benjamin Holmes

Benjamin Holmes serves as Assistant Professor of Percussion at Texas Tech University's School of Music, where he is a Yamaha Performing Artist endorsing Vic Firth sticks/mallets and Zildjian cymbals. His career integrates performance, composition, and education within percussion arts, with global recognition for innovative ensemble work.

His educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Texas Tech University
• Master of Music from University of Oklahoma (2017)
• Doctor of Musical Arts in Percussion Performance from Texas Tech University (2022)

Research and creative focus centers on percussion performance techniques, contemporary composition for diverse ensembles, and chamber music innovation. His work bridges traditional orchestral contexts with modern vernacular forms like marching band arranging, demonstrated through internationally performed compositions at venues including Sydney Opera House and Taiwan’s Eslite Performance Hall.

Notable honors include:

• 2022 North International Music Competition Chamber Music Second Place
• 2024 American Prize in Chamber Music Third Place
• 2023 World Percussion Group membership
• JW Pepper Editor’s Choice nomination for "Palm Reader"

As an educator, Holmes taught applied percussion at University of Oklahoma (2018-2025) while coordinating their Pride of Oklahoma Marching Band. He co-founded the Holmes Percussion Duo with Cody Holmes, creating over 20 original works that garnered two million+ social media views and international competition success. Current service includes the Percussion Arts Society Composition Committee.

Active performance engagements include Norman Philharmonic, Frontier Brass Band, and Avant Garden contemporary ensemble, reflecting his commitment to expanding percussion's role across classical, jazz, and experimental music landscapes.