Benjamin M
Instruments: Piano
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Blues, Hip Hop, Electronic, Showtunes, Swing, Bossa Nova, Avant-garde
Benjamin M
Instruments: Piano
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Blues, Hip Hop, Electronic, Showtunes, Swing, Bossa Nova, Avant-garde
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 10-80
BM, Schulich School of Music at McGill University, Jazz Performance (Piano), minor in Music Tech
Current: MM, Manhattan School of Music, Manhattan School of Music, Jazz Arts (Piano)
2017 - Manhattan School of Music Merit Scholarship
2015 - McGill University graduation distinction: "Outstanding Performance" on diploma
Ben is a New York City-based jazz pianist, composer, and producer. His classical training and bebop roots resonate in his explorations of contemporary jazz harmony. Having lived in the Philippines, Peru, Kenya, Montréal, and New York, Ben has been a part of several distinct music scenes. He has performed with Taru Alexander, Miles Griffith, Stanley Banks, Kevin Dean, Josh David Barrett, Steve Brown, Daryl Johns, Jesse Collins, and other acclaimed musicians. His interest in composition and film scoring has led him into the world of digital music production and orchestration. Ben holds a bachelor’s degree in jazz piano performance and a minor in music technology from McGill University’s Schulich School of Music and is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Manhattan School of Music.
• Frequent substitute private piano teacher for several students at LREI K-12 charter school in Greenwich Village, NYC
• 5-10 years of experience as private piano tutor and vocal coach
o Capable of providing instruction on both jazz and classical musicianship
• Strong foundation in music theory down to the mathematical and physical fundamentals of sound
• Completed two master’s level classes at Manhattan School of Music in music pedagogy
o Jazz Pedagogy, taught by Christopher Rosenberg
o Musicians as Educators, taught by Christopher Rosenberg
• Performed and taught in educational show for NYC public elementary school as part of a jazz sextet highlighting the musical compositions and styles of innovators throughout jazz history
• Taught masterclass and large jazz ensemble rehearsal to youth at CSMA Jazz Institute in Ithaca, NY
o Topics for masterclass included the lifestyle of a jazz musician, the importance of open-mindedness in seeking musical influences, and exploring the use of space in the playing of jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal.
• Capable of teaching digital MIDI production and film scoring using Logic Pro X and a variety of software instruments, synths, and plugins
The structure of each lesson is always tailored to the student, but typically involves working hands-on with material, charting progress week to week, and refining the way that the student applies his or her focus while practicing passages. I often like to emphasize the use of expressive dynamics, rhythmic coordination between the two hands, and melodic phrasing. Given the open-ended nature of the musical experience, I hope to impart valuable insights into these technical aspects of performance and practice while also providing general guidance in accordance with the student's personal vision. For instance, if working on learning and performing pieces isn't what the student needs in that moment, I'm always thrilled to dive deep into music theory or share my expertise in the art of improvisation.
My approach to helping students become better musicians and people is to try to cultivate a genuine desire to progress rather than a compulsion to comply with external pressure and expectations. I believe my teaching style makes achieving goals exciting for the student, rather than burdensome. This eliminates the need for pulling the teacher authority card. Establishing a good teacher-student rapport reinforces positive associations that enrich the process of musical growth. Not only is a good vibe in line with how music was meant be, but it makes practicing a more worthwhile endeavor and increases the likelihood of commitment. As someone who had the privilege of studying with passionate teachers, I can certainly say that the joy of music is contagious when the right lighthearted, yet driven attitude is applied. I’ve experienced firsthand the thrill of being around enthusiastic peers and passionate educators, and these experiences have certainly led me to where I am today.
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