Justin Alexander, percussion
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. A champion of new music, he has commissioned or premiered over 20 pieces for percussion. He is featured on over 7 recordings, including the Grammy®-nominated album, Children of Adam, with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra.
A percussionist who began on the drum set, Justin’s creative work has revolved around this instrument and is a central pillar of his pedagogy. He has premiered or recorded important new works for drum set, including Zipzap: Concerto for Drum Set and Wind Ensemble by Adam Silverman, "Drum Dances" by John Psathas, and "fade", and concerto for drum set and percussion ensemble by acclaimed percussionist / composer Clif Walker. Justin's early interest in both popular and classical music has enabled him to move fluidly between genres and styles.
Justin's interest in and commitment to an integrated pedagogical approach to non-western traditions in the percussion studio has led to presentations at the 2018 and 2024 National Conference on Percussion Pedagogy as well as a co-authored article in Percussive Notes (2020). He is currently a tabla student of Shawn Mativetsky, and has studied mridangam, frame drum, and Afro-Cuban percussion. Justin is currently enrolled in the "Carnatic Approaches to Western Music" program offered through the Conservatorium van Amsterdam.
Justin is Principal Percussionist with the Wintergreen Music Festival, a position he has held since 2015. A month-long festival of orchestra, chamber, and jazz concerts, the Wintergreen Music Festival is a top-tier summer classical music festival held in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. Justin is an alum of the Aspen Music Festival, and he was on faculty with The Eastern Music Festival in 2012. He has performed with The Florida Orchestra, The Arkansas Symphony, the Tallahassee Symphony (section member, 2010-2013), and performs regularly with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra.
Respected as a dedicated teacher and clinician, Justin has given masterclasses and clinics at universities and percussion festivals around the U.S. and abroad. His VCU students have a record of success, including job placements in the music field, acceptance at top graduate programs in the U.S., attendance at prestigious summer festivals, and membership in DCI Drum Corps. As a member of the Percussive Arts Society, Justin has presented at PASIC 2014 and 2018, published articles in Percussive Notes, and currently serves on the PAS World Percussion Committee. He is former President of the Virginia / D.C. Chapter of PAS.
