Ben Mallinder

Personal Message

I am a professional saxophonist, specialising in improvisation. I believe that anybody can make music, no matter what age, so why wait? Start making music now!
Interview
Which subject(s) do you teach?

I teach jazz and classical saxophone, flute, clarinet as well as general musicianship from the theory of music to confident stage performance techniques.

Tell me about your qualifications.

I am in my fourth and final year at Trinity College of Music in jazz performance. I have completed all my grade exams in music at a young age and have successful results in my A levels in college including music.

What kind of experience do you have?

I began learning saxophone at the age of 10 when my neighbour let me borrow his grandfathers old saxophone. From that moment I knew that I wanted to become a professional musician. I have played with the likes of Jamie Cullum, Charlotte Church, Sir John Dankworth, Dennis Rollins and was member of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra for several years. I have had a lot of experience in session work including TV, radio and studio. I am also in several ensembles including the Ben Mallinder Group, East Park Reggae Collective, BB collective and I am a regular guest member of many other bands in London and around the UK. I have recently come of tour with the East Park Reggae Collective playing at festivals such as Istanbul Jazz Festival, Umbria Jazz Festival, Latitude, the Big Chill, Lovebox to name a few.

I have been a tutor for Tower Hamlets Music Service with Wider Opportunities and have been teaching individuals and groups for many years. I recently was invited to lead a group of young people in Northern Ireland as part of an Arts Council event in Co. Down where I introduced the young classical and Irish musicians to Jazz.

How much do you charge?

The fee is negotiable but based on a set fee of £25 per hour, depending on location.

Where do you teach?

I am happy to teach in my own home where I have a dedicated music room, however I am also willing to travel but the travel expenses must be covered by the student. I live in the centre of Greenwich, 5 minutes walk from the train station and 2 minutes from the Cutty Sark DLR.

When are you available?

I am flexible with my availability and lesson times can be negotiated to suit both parties.

Which ages and levels do you teach?

I am happy to teach beginners, intermediate and advanced players of all ages.

Do you have an up-to-date CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) disclosure certificate?

Yes I have an up-to-date CRB disclosure certificate.

Where and with whom did you train?

I began studying with Richard Ingham (editor of the Cambridge Companion to the Saxophone) at the age of 10. I then began studying with Joel Purnell (head lecturer of saxophone at Leeds College of Music). I am currently studying with Jean Toussaint, Gerard McChrystal and Julian Siegal. I have also studyed clarinet with Anthony Jennings (ex BBC symphony orchestra clarinetist). I have been taught flute by Gareth Lockrane and regularly use the flute to double in big band playing.

Do you have a personal message for students?

I believe that each student is an individual and has their own way of learning and this is something I will always aim to fulfill with every student and them reach their own potential regardless of age or experience. I also believe that music should be fun, but as with anything in life nothing is gained unless something is put in.