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High School Graduate: Justin Weiss (Class of 2017)

Profile and contact details for Justin Weiss ('17). Justin Weiss is a multi-faceted artist, specializing in composition, conducting, and music theory. His compositions delve into the nuances of time, power, and metamorphosis, employing ensemble textures and melodic lyricism to create...

Justin Weiss, graduating class of 2017
Justin Weiss, graduating class of 2017

High School Graduate: Justin Weiss (Class of 2017)

Justin Weiss is a multi-faceted artist, known for his work as a composer, conductor, and theorist. His music immerses listeners in dramatic and vibrant sonic worlds, using collective textural play and melodically driven lyricism.

Weiss's recent work has a strong focus on the relationships between visual arts and sound. His compositions often reflect on the perception of time, energy, and transformation, creating a unique and captivating listening experience.

Throughout his career, Weiss's music has been presented at conferences and festivals worldwide. Notable performances include those by the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, Cleveland Chamber Symphony, Quatuor Diotima, Grossman Ensemble, TAK Ensemble, Nois Saxophone Quartet, Ekmeles Vocal Ensemble, and Sandbox Percussion Quartet.

Weiss's research delves into the perception and phenomenology of silence, stillness, and fragility in contemporary music. His work seeks to push the boundaries of traditional music, exploring uncharted territories in sound and composition.

In the summer of 2025, Weiss was designated the Susan and Ford Schumann Composition Fellow at the prestigious Aspen Music Festival. This recognition further solidified his position as a rising star in the world of contemporary music.

Weiss's accomplishments extend beyond the concert hall. He has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Charles Ives Scholarship, League of Composers/ISCM Prize, Prix Langage Musical, Walter E. Aschaffenburg Prize, and awards from ASCAP, Society of Composers, Inc., and The American Prize.

In addition to his work as a composer and theorist, Weiss is the co-artistic/executive director and conductor for the contemporary music ensemble, Mycelium New Music. Under his leadership, Mycelium has become a hub for innovative and thought-provoking music, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in contemporary composition.

As Weiss continues to create and explore, his music promises to captivate audiences and challenge perceptions for years to come.

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