Benjamin Shirey (was CEMI staff from 2013-2016 and is currently serving), a native Texas composer and artist, obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of North Texas under the mentorship of renowned composers like Jon Nelson, David Stout, Cindy McTee, Andrew May, and Panayiotis Kokoras.

His work, from experimental opera to film scores, delves deep into acoustic phenomenology, art teleology, artificial life, and immersive systems. His film contributions, such as “Hustler of Providence” and “The Great Hanging,” have earned significant accolades.

Beyond composition, he is passionate about entrepreneurship and instrument building. Now, Shirey is back at the University of North Texas, pursuing a Ph.D. in Composition, hoping to continue exploring the ever-expanding horizons of music and art.