Cello, Piano & Guitar Lessons with Ben K.

Ben K. is a cellist, pianist, string arranger, and music educator. He holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Cello Performance from SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Music, where he studied with world-renowned faculty, preparing classical repertoire for solo recitals and chamber ensembles. As a student, Ben attended the Aspen Music School and Tanglewood summer festivals, as well as chamber music institutes including Kent Blossom, where he was coached by members of the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra. During his time at SUNY, he collaborated with multiple songwriters, developing his creative approach to instrumentation. After receiving his degrees, Ben held the principal on-stage cellist chair in two Tony award-winning Broadway musicals (Spring Awakening and Next To Normal), contributing string arrangements to the former, as well as performing as part of the show's band during its Off-Broadway run. He has toured nationally and/or performed with a variety of artists including Grammy-winning composer Duncan Sheik and Ingrid Michaelson, and has appeared with various artists on late-night talk shows including Late Night With Conan O'Brien and The Late Show With David Letterman. His playing can also be heard on multiple studio recordings as both a cellist and string arranger.

Teaching philosophy: I believe learning music should be fun and rewarding, and it is a great feeling to see a sense of accomplishment as students' confidence and self-motivation build as a result of their sustained practice. Music can be a great source of self-expression and I like to work with students to find music they are excited to learn, while teaching fundamental technique in an integrated way. Practicing music can also be a great way to sharpen focus while also providing relief from day to day stress. I enjoy teaching more efficient ways to practice, preparing students for recitals and other performances, and generally having a relaxed and encouraging approach.