Ben Herrick

Dr. Ben Herrick serves as Assistant Professor of Instrumental Music Education and Director of Bands at Heidelberg University, bringing over two decades of diverse teaching and performing experience to his role. With nine years of experience in higher education and twelve years teaching instrumental and general music across high school, middle school, and primary levels, Dr. Herrick is a dedicated educator and musician with a lifelong commitment to music learning and performance.

He earned his Ph.D. in Music Education from Louisiana State University in 2023, following a Master of Music Education from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (2014), and a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Toledo (1999). He currently teaches private music lessons both online and in person, supporting students at various stages in their musical journeys.

A semi-professional trombonist, Dr. Herrick performs in a wide range of genres including New Orleans jazz, big band, classical, pit orchestra, and church ensembles. He is also an active arranger and composer, creating works for a variety of ensembles.

Before beginning his career in music education, Dr. Herrick served as an aircraft structural mechanic on F-16 multirole fighter aircraft in the United States Air Force National Guard, a testament to his disciplined and service-oriented background.

Dr. Herrick continues to inspire students and audiences alike through his passionate teaching, versatile musicianship, and dedication to the growth of music education.

Courses Taught

Brass Methods
Marching Band Techniques
Instrumental Methods
Instrumental Conducting
Elementary Music Methods
Jazz in America
Marching/Symphonic Band
Low Brass Private Instruction

Expertise

Instrumental Music