Student News
Congratulations to our 2025 Barbara Buehlman Prize for Composition Winner, Joey Stempien, with Montreal at Night!
Joey Stempien (b. 2004) hails from Rochester, NY, where he has established himself as an emerging young voice in jazz and contemporary composition. Having published his first original work for big band at age 17, his unique and visceral affinities for melody and soundscape continue to allure audiences wherever his music is heard. His compositions have been brought to life by the likes of the US Navy Commodores and US Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors, and have been performed by acclaimed soloists including Carlos Eiene, Jon Hatamiya, and Bill Tiberio. He has been commissioned to write original works for school ensembles and consortiums and has taken on work as a video-game composer.
Stempien makes frequent appearances as a clinician with middle and high schools, universities and community ensembles. His experience spans a wide range of areas, from acting as a guest conductor with the Eastman Music Educators’ Wind Ensemble to performing with the GRAMMY-nominated smooth-jazz Jimmie Highsmith Jr. Group. He also acts as a guest conductor, jazz and church pianist, and multi-instrumentalist in pit orchestras and wind ensembles.
While pursuing his BA in Music and BS in Environmental Science at the University of Rochester, he helms the Joey Stempien Big Band, a professional collective of young up-and-coming musicians performing his original music.
Carillon Students Featured in Video
Check out the University of Rochester Carillon Society's video describing their collaboration with the Ghandi Institute.
Accompanists Needed!
If you're a skilled pianist interested in accompanying gigs, please contact Jimmy Warlick by email at jwarlick@ur.rochester.edu, or call (585) 273-5157. Several students have inquired recently, asking for names of accompanists. Please give your email address and phone number. Interested students will contact you directly.