ABOUT Justin Alexander
SESSION TITLE: Performance of “Concerto for Drum Set and Percussion Ensemble” by Jamie Whitmarsh
Percussionist Justin Alexander is acclaimed for the versatility and musicality of his playing as well as his commitment and focus as a teacher. He is Associate Professor of Music and Director of Percussion Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University where he has built a successful undergraduate percussion studio. He has commissioned or premiered over 20 pieces for percussion and is featured on over 7 recordings, including the Grammy®-nominated album, Children of Adam, with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra. Justin holds the Doctor of Music Degree in Percussion Performance from The Florida State University. His primary teachers include Dr. John W. Parks IV, Dr. Blake Tyson, and Prof. Leon Anderson. He is proudly endorsed by Pearl / Adams Musical Instruments, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth sticks and mallets, Grover Pro Percussion, and Remo, Inc.
The VCU Percussion Studio performs a wide variety of literature while also dedicating itself to the commissioning and performance of new chamber works. The VCU Percussion Studio is comprised of 14-16 undergraduate students majoring in percussion performance, education, and media scoring. VCU percussionists have gained admission to the most competitive graduate programs in the country, including The Eastman School of Music, Peabody Conservatory, The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Miami, Indiana University, and virtually every other percussion program of note in the US. Our students are attendees of the nation’s leading summer music festivals, including the Aspen Music Festival and School and the Eastern Music Festival, and DCI / WGI groups.
