Ben's Story...
Music
is an amazing force that holds everything together. It
is something that everyone should enjoy in as many ways
as possible. This is a short background on my journey
and the importance music has played throughout my
life...
Okay so we'll skip over the details of my early
childhood because largely not much happened! (apart from
the usual terrorising parents and teachers) I spent my
primary school years at Walloon State and WMAC, then I
moved to IGS for high school (2000-2004) where I fell in
love with the guitar! I never thought I'd actually end
up playing the instrument because Mum always wanted me
to play a classical instrument - hey guitar can be
classical can't it? (although most often not!)
Throughout my school life I was involved in many bands
including ‘Expedition: Pie’, ‘Between the Lines’, ‘Phasechanger’,
‘Ben & I’ and ‘Shortlist’. The bands entered various
Battle of the Bands competitions throughout Ipswich and
surrounding areas taking away several awards including
two first places, one third place and two best guitarist
awards.
During my years out of school I attended university and
also joined a rock covers band called ‘Dirty Sanchez’
(what the?!), which played gigs as far north as
Bundaberg and as far west as Roma. After previously
playing in originals-only bands previously, ‘Dirty
Sanchez’ really opened up my eyes to the world of covers
bands.
I took a short break from university during 2008 and
decided to teach music and play guitar full time in
covers bands. I should mention that this is when I met
my lovely wife Nandie. I'm glad I took the time off
university because I may never have met her otherwise!
At the moment I play in various cover bands and duos,
and spend my evenings teaching the guitar. I'll take the
time to "pimp" my guitar teaching here - so if you want
lessons call me on 0421 635 168.
For those people interested in what kind of music I like
to listen to and/or play this is a bit of a short list
of my interests...
Dream Theater
Neal Morse
Symphony X
Jeff Buckley
Pink Floyd
John Petrucci
Joe Satriani
Red Hot Chili Peppers
♦♦♦