Joey Stempien (b. 2004) is a Rochester, NY-based composer and bandleader whose work in jazz and contemporary concert music has garnered national attention. Known for his visceral lyricism and evocative orchestrations, his music has been brought to life by the talents of the US Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors, Eastman Jazz Ensemble, and Airmen of Note, among others.

Stempien has studied under the tutelage of Christine Jensen at the Eastman School of Music, and has previously been mentored by the likes of Mark Powell, Bill Tiberio, and Dave Chisholm. He has received commissions from educational institutions and consortiums across the country, and regularly works as a guest clinician and conductor. Stempien was named the winner of the Midwest Clinic’s 2025 Barbara Buehlman Prize in Composition for his wind ensemble work Montréal at Night.

In addition, Stempien maintains a busy performance schedule as a jazz pianist and multi-instrumentalist, and works on the social media team for the GRAMMY-winning Akropolis Reed Quintet. He leads the Joey Stempien Big Band, a professional ensemble of top collegiate and conservatory musicians that performs his original jazz repertoire.

Stempien is completing degrees in Music (BA) and Environmental Science (BS) from the University of Rochester. His original works for wind ensemble and big band are available through C. Alan Publications and Murphy Music Press.