Benjamin A. - Tutor in Westland, MI (48186)

Hello! Thank you for examining my profile with WyzAnt. I hold a Ph. D. in music theory from Michigan State University and an A. B. from Eastern Michigan University. My studies included concentrations in English Literature, Music Education, Musicology, and Music Theory. I am also fluent in German. Some of the jobs I have held include (1) High School Teacher, for which I taught English grammar/composition, Literature, U. S. History, Speech, Drama, General Music, and Band; and (2) Professor of Music for which I taught musicianship classes in written and aural theory, 2oth-century music, and composition. I am conversant with standard office software on the PC platform as well as music-specific computer-aided instructional programs. Additionally, I have worked as an editor for professional journals.

composition (music)

As a professional musician, I view musical composition as the "conditio sine qua non" of musicianship. That is, I understand musical composition to be the means through which we best understand the harmonic, contrapuntal, and formal aspects of music. In all of my musicianship classes, composition is an integral aspect.

ear training

I have taught basic musicianship for ten years and am available to give lessons in aural training, sight singing, dictation and conducting.

music history

During my master's and doctoral coursework, I completed the equivalent of an academic major in music history/musicology although I opted, in the end, for the theory degree and completed a dissertation in that area. My teaching is strongly influenced by music-historical as well as theoretical concerns.

religion

I studied comparative religions at Eastern Michigan University under Professor Phillip Schmitz and, additionally, have continued informal study through reading the sacred texts and commentaries on the texts. The sacred texts of all religious traditions are of great interest to me in living an upright and moral life.

chess

I am an amateur chess player (unranked, non-competitive) who maintains an avid interest in the game qua game and as metaphor for life.

Bible studies

I am a confirmed Catholic who has served as a Catechist, attended two Catholic schools, and am currently working to obtain RCIA certification. I have been active in bible study groups and am always working to deepen my personal faith as well as my intellectual understanding of Divine Revelation.