Join the verglas consortium
for band, with vibraphone soloist
for band, with vibraphone soloist
If you prefer to pay by check, via another method, or in installments, contact the composer.
Contact Western Colorado University Director of Bands Dr. Brett Keating at bkeating@western.edu for more information.
Consortium for Band with Vibraphone Soloist
Dr. Ben Justis, composer
Dr. Brett M. Keating, consortium organizer
The Western Colorado University Department of Music is excited to invite consortium participants to commission a new work from composer Ben Justis for concert band with vibraphone soloist. Programs of all sizes with an interest in expanding band repertoire with percussion soloist are encouraged to participate.
ver·glas / verˈglä / noun – A thin coating of ice or frozen rain on an exposed surface. Though beautiful, it can pose a hazard for those traversing an alpine environment.
Solo for vibraphone with concert band. The solo part will be in two versions, one for advanced high-schoolers (grade 4+) and one for professionals (grade 6).
Grade 3 band parts with extensive cueing
Around 6 minutes in length
Award-winning composer and percussionist Ben Justis’ music has been performed by ensembles such as the Portland Percussion Group, NewEar contemporary music ensemble, the United States Air Force Band, and many high school and collegiate programs. His writing style is a magnetic blend of neotonal harmonies, infectious grooves, and captivating melodies. Ben’s compositions are published by Tapspace, North Star, and Earthgrazer Studios. Visit benjustis.com to listen.
Recent works include Bluegrass Variations, a solo for marimba with band commissioned by Dr. Brett Keating for Western Colorado University, and Monarch March, a flex-difficulty piece commissioned by Mr. André Wilkins and Ms. Katie Ogelsby for the Salida School District bands.
The fee to join this consortium is $250 for most high schools and universities. Western-Slope (CO) High Schools qualify for a discounted fee of $100. Payments may be made in installments or in different fiscal years.
Parts and score will be delivered as PDFs to all consortium members on January 1, 2025 and your organization’s name will be listed in the front matter of the score.
Western Colorado University will premiere the work on February 13, 2025 at All-Colorado Honor Band after which performances by other consortium members are permitted. The piece will not be published for public performance until July 1, 2026.