Percussion

Mr. Ben completed a B.M. in Percussion Performance at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, studying with Scott Deal. As a member of the Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra and the Arctic Chamber Orchestra , he toured the state and North America while actively performing with local groups and his own jazz ensembles. He completed his M.M. in Percussion Performance at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colorado studying with Gray Barrier, and his M.M. in Jazz Studies at the University of Northern Colorado, studying with Jim White. During his graduate work, Ben also worked as a lecturer at Aims Community College where he directed the percussion ensemble and taught private studio lessons. Mr. Ben has been an adjudicator for the North Star Borough Solo and Ensemble Festivals . Under the direction of Scott Deal he premiered many percussion ensemble works in Alaska and North America. Mr. Ben has had numerous appointments as an adjudicator at national jazz festivals and worked as the Publishing Manager for the University of Northern Colorado Jazz Press. Mr. Ben currently teaches private percussion and drum set lessons in New York City and Nassau County. He’s an active freelance musician and regularly performs and tours as a member of the Steve Denny Trio.