John Benham

Dr. John Benham serves as an Adjunct Instructor for Music in World Cultures at the University of Northwestern - St. Paul, where he leverages his expertise in ethnomusicology to bridge indigenous musical traditions with Christian ministry practices. He founded Music In World Cultures, Inc.—an organization dedicated to equipping churches in worship, discipleship, and evangelism through culturally contextualized music—and is nationally recognized for crisis intervention consulting in public school music programs.

His academic credentials include an Ed.D. and M.A. from the University of Northern Colorado alongside a BMus from the University of Northwestern - St. Paul, reflecting deep specialization in music education and advocacy.

Research focuses on ethnomusicology's practical applications in religious contexts, emphasizing indigenous music preservation and advocacy strategies for endangered music programs. His seminal work Music Advocacy: Moving from Survival to Vision established frameworks for transforming music education sustainability.

Prestigious honors acknowledge his impact:

• Minnesota Music Educators Distinguished Service Award
• MENC National Distinguished Service Award
• University of Northwestern Distinguished Music Alumni Award
• Lowell Mason Fellowship (MENC, 2003)
• ASTA National Advocacy Award (2010)

As a sought-after conference speaker, Dr. Benham advises educational institutions on music program preservation while leading Music In World Cultures, Inc.'s global initiatives to integrate local musical expressions into Christian worship traditions across diverse cultural landscapes.