Ben Ellis
Lessons with Ben
One of my most important goals as a teacher is to help students discover how music can play a positive role in their lives. I believe it is essential to encourage students to develop not only strong instrumental skills, but also their own unique musical identities. Through my work, I strive to create inclusive and supportive learning environments that foster artistic growth and inspire a lifelong appreciation of music.
Students study and perform a wide variety of styles, ranging from classical and acoustic fingerstyle to blues and rock. Regardless of genre, the focus is on developing fluency and ease on the guitar, while building the skills and confidence needed to perform with others and explore new music without barriers.
I bring over a decade of experience in higher education and hold a Master’s degree in Music from Syracuse University. I have served on the faculties of Hobart and William Smith Colleges and Onondaga Community College, teaching individual lessons, chamber ensembles, and classroom-based music courses.
In addition to my academic work, I am the founder and director of The Westcott Music School, a community-based music studio offering private instruction to students of all ages and backgrounds. My students have gone on to pursue music at major universities, including Berklee College of Music and Syracuse University. I also serve as President of the Great Lakes Guitar Society, an organization dedicated to fostering community through the arts and providing educational programming to the public.
Interested in lessons?
Online or In Person
Lesson are available in person in Syracuse, NY at the Westcott Music Collective. If you are not in the Syracuse area, no problem! Lessons and classes are also available online via zoom.
Method
lessons are tailored to students of all ages and ability levels. Students will be taught music literacy, technique and musicianship in a creative and innovative way. While incorporating traditional methods with contemporary sources, students are exposed to a wide variety of music from various cultures and time periods.
Lesson Pricing
How to sign up!
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Offered weekly for either 30 or 60 minutes.
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Tailored for student-specific goals and interests.
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Tuition is paid on the first day of every month.
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Payment will be a flat rate, the same each month, 12 months a year. This amount already accounts for several absences throughout year including holidays.
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Monthly Tuition includes an online group studio class once a month
30 min lessons: $150/ per month
60 min lessons: $300/ per month
Lessons are also available on a drop in basis or in lesson packages. Pricing upon request.
If you're interested in singing up for lesson follow the link below to schedule a free introductory zoom call. I would love to hear about your goals and see how I can help you get there.