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ABOUT ME

Austin Hass Performing

Austin Hass is an acclaimed drummer and educator based in Denver, Colorado, known for his dynamic, creative, and versatile style. A highly sought-after performer and teacher, Austin has built a multifaceted career rooted in a deep love for all music. 

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He has performed at nationally and internationally renowned events including the Monterey Jazz Festival, JEN Conference, PDX Jazz Festival, Denver City Park Jazz Festival, Brasswick Music Festival, Best of the West Festival, and Groove for Thought Jazz Festival. His international credits include extended performances across Eastern Asia and Alaska as an artist aboard Norwegian Cruise Line.

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Austin’s professional collaborations span GRAMMY-winning and nominated artists such as Rosana Eckert, Erin Bentlage, Johnaye Kendrick, and Amanda Taylor. He has also performed with leading jazz and classical artists and ensembles including Brad Leali, Kate Reid, Groove for Thought, Josh Nelson, Emily Braden, Gabriel Mervine, Ben Markley, Halie Loren, Chantil Dukart, Guerrilla Fanfare Brass Band, Yakima Symphony, Aurora Symphony, and the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra.

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In addition to a thriving performance career, Austin has over a decade of experience as a dedicated music educator. He currently serves as a drum set and percussion instructor at Denver Percussion, where he works with a diverse range of students, from young beginners to advanced musicians. He has also led clinics and masterclasses at institutions including Colorado Mesa University, Northwestern College, University of Oregon, Lane Community College, and numerous public schools across Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, and Colorado.

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Originally from Portland, Oregon, and raised in Vancouver, Washington, Austin began playing drums at age two and found early success performing with his award-winning high school ensembles at events like The Midwest Clinic and the NAfME Conference. He went on to earn a BA in Classical Percussion and Drum Set Performance from Central Washington University, where he performed with CWU Jazz Band 1, and won 1st place at the Next Generation Jazz Festival, earning them a performance slot at the Monterey Jazz Festival. He later received his MM in Jazz Studies from the University of Oregon, serving as the drum set graduate teaching fellow. At the conclusion of his masters degree, he released his debut album, You Are Here, featuring seven original compositions. In 2022, Austin placed 2nd in the Percussive Arts Society Drum Set Competition, a highly competitive international event held in Indianapolis, IN.

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Austin's artistry is grounded in mentorship from renowned educators including Chris Bruya, Kelly Pierce, Steve Owen, Mark Goodenberger, Gary Hobbs, Mel Brown, Sam Ormson, Larry Gookin, and Paul Krueger. Today, he continues to shape the next generation of drummers while remaining a vibrant contributor to the Front Range music scene and beyond.

© 2025 by AUSTIN HASS MUSIC

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