About

“Ben has been instructing my 2 kids (now aged 11 and 9) in-home for at least 5 years. We started off with piano for the first few years but then switched to a combination of piano and acoustic guitar (half a session dedicated to each instrument). He is patient, kind, and highly knowledgeable. I clearly see the upward trajectory in my kids' musical capabilities. One of my kids can be difficult to deal with, especially when he is tired, but Ben would mold his approach to the lesson on the spot to keep my kid engaged (e.g., instead of continuing the lesson on the actual piano, he'd switch to a fun music-oriented game).” -Kamal, piano/guitar parent

“I hadn't played a musical instrument since elementary school when I started Ukulele lessons with Ben. Ben started from the beginning, answered all my questions along the way, and built upon that information in each lesson. It wasn't in a didactic way, but in a way that was really customized to fit my Ukulele lesson goals. Ben's teaching style is very flexible also. I had some Ukulele lesson books I had been gifted and we worked from those. I didn't feel that I had to buy a bunch of additional equipment, books, etc.I recommend Ben as a music teacher. He is understanding, encouraging, and inspirational. I am looking forward to continuing lessons with Ben and JC Instrumental.” -Lauren, adult ukulele student

“Ben has been working with our daughter since January 2019, when she turned 6 1/2. He arrives at our home on time each week and he works with her at an age appropriate level. We appreciate that he recognizes the effort she puts into the weeks when she practices often and he gently makes her aware when she hasn't practiced enough. He always speaks with her in a kind way and with us in a collaborative manner. We all want her to enjoy her piano experience, and we are thankful to have found Ben just a few blocks away from our home.” -Pam, piano parent

"I've been taking piano lessons with Ben for about 6 weeks now. It's really convenient for me, since I can meet at his place or he can come to mine. I'm an adult beginner, with really zero piano experience prior to starting lessons. Years ago I played trumpet for about 5 years, so I did have some early experience reading music. I told Ben to treat me like a true beginner. He's been very patient, but he challenges me. I think my success will ultimately be up to me -- how much am I willing to practice, and to study? So far the experience working with Ben has been great. It's fun and challenging, and I'm finding myself improving every week. I've even started to figure out some chords and songs on my own!” -Adam, adult piano student

“Ben was a great first music teacher for my daughter. He taught her the basics of beat and rhythm, proper piano technique and practice methods, all within her young abilities (she started with him around 4 1/2 years old). He was also extremely patient but firm when she got wiggly and tired. He was also always on time and easy to work with.” -Becky, piano parent

”Fantastic, patient and kind ukelele instructor. I recommend Ben without reservation. Thanks Ben!” -Aenna, adult ukulele student

”Ben has character attributes one would like to find in a teacher, knowledge, patience and presence! Looking forward to our next lesson. Thanks Ben!” -Sandra, adult piano student

”I'm a new learner in guitar, I barely read notes. Ben is very patient on me. The learning process is dense but smooth. Ben let me feel I can achieve my goal in near future. Thanks!” -Peng, adult guitar student