Ben Blessing (b. 1984) is a composer, conductor, and educator based in Nampa, Idaho. A former Marine and a long-serving member of the Idaho Army National Guard, he currently serves with the 25th Army Band in Boise. Blessing holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Composition from Northwest Nazarene University and a Master’s in Music Education from the American Band College.
His compositions have garnered national recognition, with his Symphony No. 4 and Grandma’s Coat named finalists for The American Prize in 2025. His music is published through GPG Music, Knightwind Music, and Randall Standridge Music, and has been featured on the American Band College Top 100 List. His piece Standhope Peak won the 2022 NFMC Armed Forces Composition Competition.
Mr. Blessing is passionate about creating music that resonates with performers and audiences alike, writing extensively for concert band, orchestra, choir and electronic mediums. As an educator and conductor, he is the band director for the Baker School District in Baker City, Oregon.
Outside of music, he’s an avid ultramarathon runner and the former Race Director for the Standhope Ultra Challenge. He cherishes time spent with his wife, children, and their dog Robie, balancing a life of artistry, adventure, and service.