About
Bio
Ben Jaeckel
Ben Jaeckel (b. 2007) is a composer and trumpet player from River Falls, WI, currently attending River Falls High School. He writes music across a variety of genres, driven by a curiosity to explore new sounds and a desire to communicate emotion through his work.
Ben’s compositions have earned recognition in state and regional competitions, including the WSMA Exemplary Composition Award (2025) and the WCDA Composition Contest Winner (2025). He has also contributed his musical talents to community initiatives, working with the Sing Me a Story Foundation and the Limbitless Wisconsin Foundation to create experiences that inspire and uplift others. He approaches each piece as an opportunity to experiment, refine his craft, and share his perspective through music.
In the fall of 2026, Ben will continue his musical journey at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, studying Music Education. He is committed to growing as a composer and performer, and to creating music that resonates with audiences while reflecting his personal voice.
Newest Release
For Our Future
Written For Wind Symphony
This piece is written in four connected sections, each representing a different year of high school. Rather than telling a literal story, the music reflects the feeling of moving through those years and how excitement, routine, exhaustion, and anticipation shape the experience. The first section represents freshman year. It begins somewhat cautiously before quickly opening into something larger and louder. The music can feel bold and sometimes disjunct, filled with short ideas and bursts of energy. This captures the feeling of stepping into high school for the first time, when everything is new and full of possibilities. The second section reflects sophomore year. The music settles into a groove as routines begin to form and things start to feel more comfortable. Rhythms lock in, and the energy feels confident and steady, representing the point when high school begins to feel familiar and exciting at the same time. The third section represents junior year. The pace continues forward, but the character becomes more subdued. Lines thin out and the music feels more restrained, suggesting the exhaustion that often comes with the busiest year. Even so, the motion never fully stops. The final section represents senior year and brings the piece back toward the energy of the beginning. The groove feels more natural now, and the excitement returns as attention shifts toward what comes next. The piece ends with a sense of arrival while still leaving space for the next chapter beyond high school.