About me
Ben Colgan
Described as a “Brilliant musician and warm soul” by my peers, I am a professional Musician and Teacher in Massachusetts.
I have a knack for bringing out people’s musical talents. My students develop confidence, practical skills, and a lifelong connection with music.
I started piano at 6 years old, and was singing even before that. I was a gigging performer by middle school, always teaching and learning from others along the way. I seek to share my learnings with as many people as possible!
I am known for my upbeat, patient and supportive personality. Having directed many shows and ensembles over the years, I love classical, jazz, theatre, rock, pop, and more!
I operate at the intersection of Music and Technology, using modern developments to help others flourish and create. My students take an interest in hardware, software, and personal creativity.
I am a High School Chorus and Drama teacher in the MA public schools, as well as the Minister of Music at my local parish. I have a wide range of musical interests!
Academic and Professional Qualifications
B.M. Music Education -
(Boston University)
M.M.T. Music Technology - Performance (Southern Utah University)
MA K-12 Certified Music Educator - Vocal/Instrumental
Original Music and Arrangements
Download Contains: PDF’s Full Score, Vocal Score, All Parts, Piano Conductor Score
This Advent Chorale Cantata runs about 22 minutes long, has opportunities for multiple soloists, and its scored that it can be performed with full instrumentation or reduced. Drawing from biblical sources and other traditional liturgical texts, this cantata combines traditional structures and practices with my contemporary flare.
It opens with a brief instrumental, followed by an original chorale based off of the text of the well-known Christian hymn of the same name. Afterwards, the cantata enters a sequence of alternating arias and recitatives that tell the great drama of the faith -specifically the tale of the foretold coming of the Messiah.
The instrumental accompaniment is not particularly complex, and performed in a church may be playable by a congregant. The piece is written for a small string combo and two reeds, as well as piano and organ. That said, it could be performed with as little as organ and piano in a pinch. You also can see the indication for the reduced orchestration option on the instrumentation list.
The Piano/Conductor score may be used in lieu of a standalone conductor using the full score, and can be purchased at www.bencmusic.info. The played piano part is identical to the one contained in this set, but it also includes the vocals and a reduced orchestra line with all of the cues.
Remember how the great J.S. Bach ended his manuscripts:
S.D.G.
Orchestration
Prophetess - Soprano
Shepherd - Tenor
Gabriel - Baritone
Wise Man - Bass
Opt. Wise Man 2/3, Bass
SATB Choir
Flute*
Clarinet
Piano*
Organ* - No-pedal version included
Violin I
Violin II
Viola
Cello*
Contrabass
*reduced orchestration
Digital Download Includes: PDF of the Book which includes Lead Sheets, Full Scores, and Band Parts
This collection of folk songs and hymns is tastefully arranged for small combos. Almost all of the tunes use baritone guitar (easily substituted for regular guitar with capo and reading the chords), drums, voice, and bass.
6 Arrangements
How Great Thou Art
John Done Saw That Number
Loch Lomond
Leaning On The Everlasting Arms
Won't You Join Me By The River?
God Be With You
Digital Download Includes: PDF of the book which contains Piano/Vocal and Vocal scores for each.
A collection of four anthems for choir and piano that strike some balance between “classical” and “modern.”
Contains an arrangement of a classic favorite: O Come All Ye Faithful
Two arrangements based on familiar prayers: Glory Be, Laudate Dominum
One completely original arrangement: Rejoice!
Early Life
I grew up on Cape Cod, MA, born to Scott Colgan and Terilynn Colgan (neé Shimkus). We lived in Yarmouth for the first two years of my life until my sister, Sam was born before moving to Brewster. I took an early interest in technology, music, mathematics, and I became an avid reader.
Even more about me!
University
I was off to Boston University in 2016 to study Music Education and Voice. Eager to start, I threw myself into the Boston theatre scene which I’ve been participating in ever since. I studied voice privately with Gary Durham. In 2020 I graduated and went on to earn a Master of Music Technology Degree through Southern Utah University, an excellent asynchronous online program.
Starting Music
Humans sing before they can speak—even if it is primitive and inarticulate—so I have been singing for a very long time! I took to piano in first grade when I took private lessons with Chris Morris. I was very involved in music in school, as well as singing at my local UU for several years.
Post-University
After finishing my graduate studies in 2021, I lived in Brookline for a year then moved to Wellesley where I currently live. I worked at Music & Arts as an Educational Sales Representative during the day and did my music work in the afternoon/evening/weekends. I kept up with gigging, and always keep teaching and learning.
Pre-University
I started pouring my time into musical endeavors, playing in many groups (mostly classical, jazz, and musical theatre) and singing in local and state choirs. I studied voice under Alison Beavan and Tom Faris. I received my High School’s Music Department Award when I graduated in 2016.
Present Day
Now I do music full time! I teach, play, sing, compose, and more. I have always had a diverse skillset and like to try my hand at a variety of endeavors. I am a High School Chorus and Drama teacher in the MA public schools, as well as the Minister of Music at my local parish. I hope to always have a wide range of musical interests!