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Teaches Lessons:
Online, In Person
Styles:
Bluegrass (Scruggs) , Clawhammer and Old-Time, Other
Levels:
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Teacher Since: 2003
Pricing: Sliding scale: $60-$120/hour; $40-$60/half hour (see benkrakauer.com for details)
Listing Created: 8/5/2026
Listing Updated: 8/5/2026
More About Me
I'm a banjo player and composer rooted in bluegrass, old-time, jazz, and new acoustic music. I've toured with David Grisman, was a founding member of Old School Freight Train, and have recorded for Acoustic Disc, Adhyâropa Records, CMH Records, and the Fiddle Masters series. My solo albums, Heart Lake (2019) and Hidden Animals (2023) feature original compositions for banjo, fiddle, bass, drums, and cello. I have taught banjo lessons and workshops at music camps throughout the U.S., as well as at Berklee College of Music, Warren Wilson College, Tufts University, and the University of Virginia. I currently teach ethnomusicology classes at Temple University and teach private banjo lessons online and in person in Philadelphia.
My flexible teaching style accommodates the varied interests, abilities, and goals of my students. Typical lessons focus on building repertoire, honing technique, and setting intentions around jamming, practicing, listening, and learning. I am currently writing a book about how musicians stay motivated, and I love talking with students about all aspects of creative process.
Learn more about my music, teaching, and writing at www.benkrakauer.com
I also post lessons to my YouTube and Patreon channels:
www.youtube.com/@BenKrakauer
www.patreon.com/benkrakauer
