John Heins (MM ’82)

Heins was a finalist of the 9th International Film Music Competition (2021) which took place in Zurich, Switzerland. Under the baton of Frank Strobel, the Zurich Tonhalle Orchestra world-premiered the three finalists’ compositions, including Heins’ composition—out of 182 participants from 37 countries. Entrants were asked to write a symphony orchestra score for the eight-minute short film “Etiqueta Negra” by David Vergés.

The world premiere of Heins’ violin concerto—“Vincent in Arles and Auvers,” composed for Associate Professor of Violin Charles (Chas) Wetherbee who passed away in 2023—was performed by Colorado Symphony Concertmaster Yumi Hwang-Williams and the University of Denver’s Lamont Symphony Orchestra on Oct. 8, 2025. The evocative work is inspired by artist Vincent van Gogh’s final years.

Additionally, on Nov. 10, 2026, the Boulder Phil will perform the world premiere of Heins’ six-part “Moons of the Giants.”