Ben Ruiz - French Horn And High Brass Lessons
About
Hello, my name is Ben. I am a French Horn player and high brass specialist. I have experience teaching trumpet, mellophone, alto/tenor horn and french horn. I am available to teach lessons to beginner students through advanced high school.
Some of my performance highlights include-
Currently holding professional horn playing positions in the U.S Army Band, "Pershing's Own" concert band and Assistant Principal Horn of The Dallas Winds.
Former 2nd horn of the Dallas Brass Band
Former Carolina Crown Mellophone section leader, 3 year veteran, horn soloist for the 2023 show.
Principal horn in the Flower Mound Symphony Orchestra
Several UNT ensembles - Wind Symphony (principal horn), Symphony Orchestra, Concert Orchestra (principal horn), Wind Orchestra, Brass Band (solo horn)
3-time Top Ensemble TMEA All-State player - Major works included Rite of Spring, Shostakovich 10, and Symphonic Suite on a Waterfront by Bernstein for band.
If you are a middle schooler just starting out, or if you are an advanced high schooler looking to make All-State, I can help you out!
I also offer drum corps audition help, as well as marching lessons if requested, as I have a lot of background in that field as well.
I love seeing my students progress on their instruments, and I love when students try their best to get really good at something. Teaching is one of the most fulfilling jobs!
Photos and videos
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to let the student direct the lesson. Usually students know what they need help with so I like to listen and help with your specific concerns as much as possible.
For a beginner, I can drive the lesson and use my pedagogical knowledge to properly start them off.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
In progress bachelors in music education from University of North Texas, one of most well known music ed schools in the country. I have taken high brass methods classes, re-learning and truly understanding proper pedagogy of my instruments.
Some highlights of my performance experience that may be relevant to students.
Newest to Oldest
Paid Professional Musician in Marcus High School's Musical: Spamalot! - solo horn
Dallas Brass Band - current 2nd horn
Carolina Crown - mellophone section leader (2023), member (2021-2022)
UNT Brass Band - former solo horn
UNT Symphony Orchestra - former 2nd horn
UNT Concert Orchestra, Wind Orchestra - section horn
Dozens of paid church gig experience with various ensembles such as horn quartets and brass quintets.
Top TMEA All-State Ensembles in high school- 3 time all-stater: I can absolutely help students with TMEA auditions!
Teaching Experience-
All-State Audition Master Class Teacher- Marcus High School, Memorial High School
Marching and Music Technician for Marcus High School (2021-2022) - I taught the trumpets and mellophones in marching band.
Taught Private Lessons
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I can do In-Person lessons at UNT or online via Zoom or FaceTime!
My rate is 20 dollars per 30 minute lesson.
How did you get started teaching?
I've taught lessons here and there but I am looking to expand my lesson studio now.
I started as a marching band technician at Marcus High School. There, I taught the mellophones and trumpets both musically and visually. I still teach at Marcus High School and this upcoming year will be my 3rd year with the marching band.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've taught at the beginner level all the way to all-state level horn players.
I've taught masterclasses for All-State audition music at both Frisco Memorial High School and Marcus High School.
Additionally, I was a judge for Trumpet and French Horn in Memorial High School's band placement auditions.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Performing at DCI World Championship Finals with Carolina Crown!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Practice consistently, don't be afraid to ask questions!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
I think a student should ask themselves if they are willing to put in the work. With good guidance and the help of a teacher, a student can progress very quickly.