Ben Hjertmann


Ben Hjertmann is a Chicago-based composer. His work focuses on non-traditional sounds and instruments through the convergence of a multitude of styles. He aims to draw lyricism and resonance from unexpected places, while owing much to the gestures and forms from the recent and distant past. Hjertmann's work has been scored for chamber groups, mixed choir, rock band, gamelan orchestra, crystal glasses, electronic media, and a variety of world instruments including oud, baglama, and duduk. Recent projects have also included live electronics, sound-sculpture installation, film, and computer improvisation.

He performs and serves as Production Director for The Sissy-Eared Mollycoddles, Chicago's premiere new music trio.

He has been commissioned and/or performed by The Chicago Miniaturist Ensemble, International Contemporary Ensemble, Northwestern University Contemporary Music Ensemble, The Conservatorium van Amsterdam Gamelan Orchestra, The New York Miniaturist Ensemble, and The Sissy-Eared Mollycoddles Trio. Hjertmann has also been awarded The 2009 Cacavas Award at Northwestern University, 2008 & 2009 Grants from the Harry N. and Ruth F. Wyatt Fund, The 2008 FSU CHASM Student Composer's Competition, and The John Wesley Powell Research Conference and the 2005 Alicia and Hans Fuchs Scholarship.


Ben graduated magna cum laude from Illinois Wesleyan University and is currently pursuing a D.M. in Composition at Northwestern University. In 2005, he studied composition and world music at The Conservatorium Van Amsterdam. His principle composition teachers have been Jay Alan Yim, Lee Hyla, and David Vayo; additional studies with Chris Mercer, Mario Pelusi, Garrett Byrnes, and Fabio Nieder.