Ben Pedersen

Ben Pedersen is a seasoned music educator and performer with extensive experience spanning over a decade in various capacities. Currently serving as a Music Teacher and Band Director at Chicago Public Schools since July 2020, Ben teaches a diverse range of courses, including Jazz Band, Beginning Band, Class Piano, and General Music, while also coaching the Girls Varsity Basketball team. In addition to educational roles, Ben has maintained a private teaching practice with Ben Pedersen Music, focusing on trombone instruction and live performances, as well as composing and arranging music. Previous experience includes performing as a trombonist for multiple cruise lines and holding several operational roles at Echo Global Logistics. Ben holds a K-12 Music Teacher Certification from Northeastern Illinois University and advanced degrees in Jazz Studies from DePaul University and the University of Denver.