Justin Birge Memorial Fund

On April 7, 2024, the Stillwater Music family and Durango's music community suffered the tragic loss of a beloved faculty member, Justin Birge. As a core member of Stillwater's teaching staff, Justin shared his love for music with a wide array of students- from kids in his youth rock band and early childhood classes, to students in his adult bands, to kids in local schools where he taught general music classes, and to dozens of private drum students.  His affable approach to teaching music made him an unforgettable instructor who inspired countless life-long music lovers.

One recurring theme defined Justin in the hearts of all who knew him: he loved big and without reservation. Justin especially loved his kid classes–and he loved Durango. To say Justin’s life had a profound impact on hundreds of people is a huge understatement, and Stillwater is proud to honor his memory by sharing the joy of music-making with our community. The Justin Birge Memorial Fund will go directly toward Stillwater’s youth scholarship program, ensuring that no child in the Durango community is denied a music education at Stillwater for lack of ability to pay. 

Please join us for a celebration of Justin's life at Stillwater Music on Sunday, July 14, from 11am-8pm.