Benjamin Yats, A.B.D.

Originally from Michigan, Benjamin Yats has traveled around the country chasing his passion for performing and teaching percussion music of all kinds, as well as sharing his belief that “Music Makes Life More Beautiful.” As an orchestral percussionist, he has performed with the Colorado Symphony, Greeley Philharmonic, Boulder Symphony, Arapahoe Philharmonic, Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra, Beloit-Janesville Symphony, and other regional orchestras. He is also passionate about drum set, and has performed as a worship drummer in Colorado and Wisconsin, performed numerous times with the Capital City Theatre in Madison, and performed professionally with various high school musical productions. Additional passions include Indian Classical music, Irish Trad Sessions, Electronic Music, the Marching Arts, and more.
Benjamin also works at the St. Paul Conservatory of Music, where his focus has been on educational outreach, and at Wayzata Highschool where he directs the Percussion Ensemble, instructs the drum line, and teaches private lessons.

Mr. Yats earned his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from Central Michigan University, a Performer’s Certificate from the University of Denver, and is now A.B.D at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.