Benton J
5.0
(3)
Instruments: Piano, Saxophone
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Blues, Swing, Bossa Nova, Marching Band
Benton J
5.0
(3)
Instruments: Piano, Saxophone
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Pop, Blues, Swing, Bossa Nova, Marching Band
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 6-80
Bachelor Degree: Santa Clara University
2016 - New England Conservatory Preparatory School Graduate
Hi! I'm Ben. I am a fervent lover of music in all its many shapes and sizes, but personally specialize in jazz performance and theory. I first picked up the saxophone way back in elementary school, and in the spring of 2020 I graduated from Santa Clara University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Learning and performing music has been a major part of my life for as long as I can remember, and along the way has taught me so much more than just scales and chords. Learning to play taught me patience, focus, and above all how important it is to be able to express oneself on your own terms.
Every Saturday morning throughout high school I volunteered my time mentoring young saxophonists just starting out with the instrument. I was surprised, initially, at just how rewarding an experience this turned out to be. But soon I realized just how powerful an experience learning music can be, and how incredible the opportunity is to be able to help people through that experience in a fun and engaging way. Arriving at college I began tutoring part time, during which I honed my teaching skills in a more professional setting.
I wholeheartedly believe that the best ingredient for passion is joy. I want all of my students to be enjoying themselves not only during our lessons, but in the practice room as well. As a result I try to keep my lessons incredibly individualized. I learn about my students, what are their favorite styles of music? Favorite songs or bands? I believe there is no wrong starting point in one's musical journey. There is so much to learn, and to TEACH, in every single piece of music from Bach to the Beatles. No matter the ability level, my goal is to get you playing something you're excited by, and help you to sound as good as you possibly can.
Each student learns at his or her own pace, and as a result I dislike forcing all students into the same step-by-step regimen. I find that laying out preplanned expectations and milestones at the outset is often more for the teachers benefit than the students. Individualizing lesson plans and progress trajectories is much more work on my end, but I find the result much more rewarding for both instructor and student. I will help each and every student not only reach their own personal goals, but encourage their full musical potential. And I'll do so on your own terms, rather than mine.
Roberta Nunez
Benton is great! I love the saxophone but also live a busy life and Benton does an amazing job at helping me get the most out of my lessons regardless of that. He makes teaching fun and interesting, I’m constantly learning so much with each lesson.
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