Hi! I'm Ben, a professional classical guitarist and music educator with over 15 years of teaching experience.
I've toured across the U.S., Europe, and China, and since 2014 I've performed extensively with the acclaimed Minneapolis Guitar Quartet. My specialty is classical guitar, but I've spent years playing and teaching across styles including jazz, rock, blues, folk, and fingerstyle. That range helps me meet students wherever their interests are while making sure they're building solid technique from the start.
I also perform in a guitar duo with my wife, Milena Petković, and have recorded CDs, led workshops and masterclasses, and collaborated with ensembles like The Mirandola Ensemble. Music has been my whole life, and I bring that experience into every lesson.
What to Expect
Every lesson is built around your goals and what excites you musically. Whether you want to play classical masterpieces, strum your favorite pop songs, explore fingerstyle arrangements, or try something completely new, we'll work on it together.
I believe in building good habits early because they make everything easier down the road, but lessons should also be fun and feel personally meaningful. We'll work on technique, explore the music you love, and build the kind of confidence that comes from knowing you're improving.
A Bit About Me
I hold a Master of Music in classical guitar performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music. I've been teaching students of all ages and levels for over 15 years, and performing has been a constant throughout, from solo recitals to touring with the Minneapolis Guitar Quartet.
Ready to get started? Book a trial lesson to see if I'm the right fit for your family.