Jay Lehmann, Chairman of the Music Department of Laney College and
Music Director and Conductor of the Berkeley Youth Orchestra
"For the past seven years John Bennett has been my cello teacher. During this time I have found him to be a gifted and intuitive instructor. While John provides systematic, intensive instruction in cello playing technique, including such skills as intonation, bowing, fingering, vibrato, rhythm and dynamics, he also provides a strong foundation in music theory, history, and overall music appreciation. Although a talented professional cellist in his own right, John is equally dedicated to continually developing his own instructional skills through attendance at workshops, teaching cello at the college level, and networking with other professional cello teachers. John provides opportunities for his students to play in community orchestras, and ensemble workshops. He is also most helpful in introducing students with similar skill sets to duet-playing opportunities.
Interwoven throughout all of his teaching is essential, yet positive, criticism and correction. With good humor and solid support, John has challenged me to be the best I can be in my musical endeavors. His lessons are fun and engaging as well as rigorous in content and practice.
In the past I have studied under professional musicians who teach as a sideline to performing in order to make much-needed income, and I have been disappointed in their lack of true teaching skills; John Bennett, however, has proven over these many years to be an outstanding cello teacher whose primary goal is to help me be, and enjoy being, the best cellist I can be."
Joan Lord
"John Bennett is an accomplished musician and a "natural" at teaching students of all ages. He introduces them to the rich, wonderful world of music through masterful cello instruction. With his sensitive individualized approach to each student's needs and learning style, his quietly engaging humor, and his gentle, yet precise feedback and encouragement, he brings out the best while providing a solid musical background for both solo and ensemble experience.
As the grandmother of one of his teen students and his beginning student myself, I highly recommend him."
Jo Lyndon
"I highly recommend John Bennett as a cello teacher. My son has studied with John for 4 years. John is patient, knowledgable and his love of the cello is infectious. My son receives individualized instruction and undivided attention from John. This has made him a better cello player and boosted his self-confidence.
Thank-You!"
Tracy Hansen
"I started playing the cello as an adult and have taken lessons from John Bennett for about eleven years. He has a positive and encouraging approach to teaching that results in steady progress without frustration, and he teaches a technique which prevents injuries from incorrect playing posture. John teaches us to play musically and encourages ensemble and orchestra playing, which is where the real fun begins! Teaching is his passion, and his students are the beneficiaries. I always look forward to my lessons and our regular adult student "cello parties". Whether you want to play Beethoven, the Bach suites or tangos, John can help you achieve your goal, and you will enjoy every step of the journey."
Dr. Kathleen Healey
"My teenage son has been taking cello lessons from John Bennett since second grade. John is a patient and caring teacher who takes personal interest in the musical progress of his students. Lessons start with scales, arpeggios, theory, etudes and end with performance music. His cello choir provides musicians a fun opportunity to play with their peers and perform together as a team. John welcomes parents to lessons and cello choir practices and he inspires them to be proactive in the progress of their children. John often talks about the lives of performers and composers and their efforts to express the mood and the intent of their music. He helps musicians express themselves through music by nurturing their creativity and artistic ability. I would like to enthusiastically recommend John Bennett as an excellent and dedicated cello teacher for students of all ages interested in music."
Marie Pak