Herman “Tres” Whitfield III

Born in Indianapolis in 1982 into a spiritual, loving, and humble family capable of nurturing his evolved spirit, Tres was deeply curious about spirituality and took the initiative to develop his personal relationship with God at an early age. His desire for spiritual understanding, growth, and connection continued throughout his life. At the young age of four, Herman III expressed his passion for music and was soon effortlessly playing piano by ear. By the age of eight, Tres was busy composing orchestral works and writing operas – many of which were performed.

Tres attended Indianapolis Public School #92 and Shortridge Middle School and he graduated from Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory High School – developing his musical gifts and winning many awards throughout these years.

At Oberlin College and Conservatory of Music, he earned dual degrees in Political Science and Music with a double major in Composition and Piano Performance. His combined passions are expressed in his work, Small Box, an opera exploring the death penalty.

Tres earned a Master’s degree in Piano Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music. Thereafter, he taught Music at both Martin University in Indianapolis and Barry University in Miami and he was the Director of Music at the Ancient Spanish Monastery in Miami. Tres also participated in the 2007 Aspen Music Festival and composed music for films, including the Columbia Motion Pictures film, Ghost Rider. Outside of work, Tres accompanied many aspiring musicians and singers – choosing to support others in the fulfillment of their musical dreams.

Tres received numerous awards throughout his life including the Detroit Symphony’s African American Emerging Composer Award (two-time awardee), the Indianapolis Prelude Award, the NAACP-ACT-SO award, the Omega Psi Phi talent competition award, and numerous other local and national awards.