John Bertles

John Bertles is a composer, instrument builder and educator. As a classically-trained composer (MA Columbia University) he has written music ranging from opera to symphony and from punk rock to circus music. As an instrument builder he has created hundreds of musical instruments from recycled and reused materials, often with his performing group Bash the Trash (for more information see the website). As an educator he specializes in working with students to build instruments, making connections along the way to science, math, social and cultural studies and literacy. He has also worked extensively as a staff developer and curriculum consultant for such institutions as Carnegie Hall, NY Philharmonic, Kennedy Center, Westchester Philharmonic and the Grammy Foundation, to mention just a few. He has appeared on Mister Rogers Neighborhood, and performs regularly with Yo-Yo Ma and his Silk Road Ensemble. Please contact him to discuss residencies, performances and other challenging collaborations.