Ben Shankland - Bassoon

Ben Shankland is an EYO alumnus whose time with the orchestra saw him perform as a bassoonist in 2022 and return as piano soloist for Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue in 2023. Now a freelance musician, composer and teacher, Ben’s career spans improvised music and contemporary classical composition, and he is passionate about passing on the musical education that helped shape his own journey.

When were you in EYO, and what did you play?

“I played bassoon in the orchestra in 2022, and was the piano soloist for Rhapsody in Blue in 2023.”

What did EYO mean to you?

“Playing in EYO was a hugely enjoyable experience – a chance to meet and play with other young people who shared my passion for music. My time with the orchestra introduced me to a range of new pieces, taught me about the importance of attention to detail in music.”

For Ben, the experience also offered a lesson that extended far beyond the rehearsal room.

“Playing in orchestras also showed me what is possible when people work together to create something greater than themselves, a lesson that informed my view on music and life!”

Where has music taken you?

Having recently graduated from conservatoire, Ben is now working as a freelance musician, with a primary focus on improvised music, while continuing to compose contemporary classical music. Having benefited from excellent music education as a child, including his time with EYO, he is now passing that experience on through his teaching at the junior department of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Ben’s journey shows how the opportunities to learn, collaborate and develop as a young musician can continue to shape both a career and a commitment to supporting the next generation.

Ben’s advice to young musicians?

“Listen to and play as much music as possible! I'd advise them to chase after the music that moves them, and to take themselves seriously – to believe in their ability to make a difference and have a positive effect on the world.”

You can find out more about Ben and his work at benshankland.co.uk