Justin's performances champion music by living American composers. Recordings of Twentieth Century composers include CDs on the Albany Records label of Robert Starer and William Ferris. His traditional repertoire centers around Beethoven and Liszt. Additionally, he is well known for presenting works by composers whom he feels live in underserved obscurity, such as Hermann Cohen (young ward of Franz Liszt), and Edward Collins (Chicago based friend of the Chicago Symphony). His performances have wide appeal with interesting and often humorous commentary.

"Stylistic diversity notwithstanding, the piece moves according to its own creative logic, especially with the outstanding playing of pianist Justin Kolb." Phil Greenfield, Baltimore Sun

"....a winning combination of brilliance and affection from pianist Justin Kolb." John von Rhein, Chicago Tribune

"The performances here are thoughtful, respectful, beautiful." Scott Morrison, Amazon.com

"A piano recital program with a difference." Alex Ross, New York Times

A popular clinician and motivational speaker, Kolb is frequently engaged by colleges and universities to present his interactive lecture Know the Score: Inspiration and Motivation for Life After Music School. And for young audiences, Travels with a Piano Player, Why Music Students Excel are two musical enrichment programs presented to grades K-12. An "arts in education" advocate Kolb often addresses parents' groups and district school boards. Kolb's articles have been published in Clavier magazine as well as Piano Today. He also serves as an executive on the Board of Directors of the American Liszt Society. Justin is a recipient of the Distinguished Alumnus Award of DePaul University.