benedict hensley

Implements of the jam: Voice, Piano

Where’s the jam? In-home lessons, Greater Boston

Favorite Jams: Classical, Musical Theatre, Jazz

Certificates of JAMification: Benedict holds a Master of Music from the New England Conservatory and Bachelor of Music from Northwestern University.

Jam history: Benedict began his musical journey with piano lessons at age 8 and started singing at church and in school choir not long after that. At age 11, he participated in a children’s musical theatre program and fell in love with singing. Two years later, he started private voice lessons and has never looked back! Participating in various choirs, musicals and a capella groups throughout his schooling, Benedict has extensive knowledge and first-hand experience being a lifelong student of music.

Note-able jams: Benedict primarily performs as an opera and choral singer. Most recently he performed with Boston-based opera companies "White Snake Projects" and "Cambridge Chamber Ensemble" and sang as a Bass Soloist with Back Bay Chorale and the Rhode Island Civic Chorale and Orchestra. He also performed in several musical theater productions, including playing “Leading Player” in Pippin, “Aaron Fox” in Curtains, and “Prince Dauntless” in Once Upon a Mattress.

Keys to jamming with you: Benedict’s biggest strengths as a teacher are his curiosity and charisma. He loves to think about why music is so great and what draws us to the music that we love. As an educator, he effortlessly connects with students of all ages and abilities and tries to inspire this same curiosity because, in his own experience, curiosity leads to passion. Benedict understands that music is all about communication and collaboration. By helping his students become the best communicators and collaborators in music, he is not only assisting them with their musical pursuits, but also giving them tools to navigate many other aspects of their lives.