Ben has been involved in music for over twenty years, and a private Instructor in the area since 1992. He holds a Bachelors degree in Music Education from Longwood University, a Masters in Music from the University of Maryland, and a K through 12 teaching certificate from the Virginia State Board of Education. He is a member of the Percussive Arts Society and the International Association for Jazz Education. Ben prides himself on his versatility. He has played punk, rock, Dixieland, funk, top-40, marching band, jazz, metal, Latin and musical theatre. Ben believes that nobody should stop learning, especially teachers. This fall Ben will have the honor of being the percussion clinician for the Drum Line of Freedom High School. Ben has recently been promoted by Contemporary Music Center as well, adding more days of availability to his schedule in the main studio. CMC is glad to have Ben as a leader in the percussion department.